“America’s fight against obesity gets a flunking grade, and that means we are graduating to a future of diabetes, heart disease, and premature death. Our communities need to mobilize to fight this epidemic - everyone needs to be a part of the solution.” – Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator

The need:

• In 2005, 92% of all states in the U.S. had obesity rates of 20% or greater.
• 27% of U.S. health care costs are associated with obesity.
• 1 in 3 children are expected to have diabetes by age 30.
• It is projected that today's children will be the first generation in history to have a shorter lifespan than their parents.
• In 2002, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimated direct and indirect costs of obesity at $117 billion - $148 million in the Quad Cities area.

ACTIVATE QUAD CITIES MISSION:
to create a social and physical environment that encourages
healthy lifestyles through a community coalition of government, community,
school, health care, corporate, faith-based and not-for-profit organizations.