The Obesity Prevention Program is one of many state obesity prevention programs funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The New Hampshire Obesity Prevention Program:

• Collaborates with statewide partners to begin the implementation phase of the Healthy Eating, Active Living Initiative (HEAL)Action Plan, which was developed by partners across New Hampshire.
• Provides technical assistance to communities that implement HEAL initiatives.
• Evaluates HEAL initiatives undertaken by the Obesity Prevention Program.

Goal

The goal of the Obesity Prevention Program is to prevent and control obesity and other chronic diseases through healthy eating and physical activity.

Target Areas

• Increase breastfeeding initiation, duration, exclusivity
• Increase physical activity
• Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables
• Decrease consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages
• Decrease consumption of energy-dense foods
• Decrease television viewing

Obesity Prevention Program Philosophy

• Emphasizes evidence-based policies and environmental supports
• Relies on partnerships, resources, and existing networks to build and sustain changes
• Recognizes that social change takes time
• Is based on the Social-Ecological Model (see below)
• Utilizes a social marketing planning approach
• Promotes obesity prevention strategies

Social-Ecological Model

• Research shows that behavior change is more likely to last when an individual and his or her entire environment change at the same time.
• Through policies and environmental supports, the Obesity Prevention Program works to make the healthier choice the easier choice where people live, learn, work and play.