Past Contest Entries

Childhood Obesity

List date(s) this work was published or aired.

Sept. 18, 25, 26, 2012.

Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.

Obese kids — even as early as age 6 — can start showing changes to their heart muscles that could lead to problems later and some obese kids had elevated blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar at age 5. A program to reduce teenagers’ intake of sugary drinks showed early benefits, but they didn’t last. Rebranding veggies as “X-ray Vision Carrots” or “Power Punch Broccoli” helps more kids eat healthy at school. Just 20 minutes of exercise a day can protect kids from diabetes.

Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?

Peer-reviewed studies and government health websites were used.

Explain types of human sources used.

Health experts involved and not involved with the study were used.

Results:

None

Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.

None

Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.

Coverage of different studies is crucial for comprehensively addressing the broad issue of childhood obesity. Don’t just describe the problem but offer evidence-based solutions as well.

Place:

No Award

Year:

  • 2012

Category:

  • Beat Reporting

Affiliation:

ABCNews.com

Reporter:

Julielynn Wong

Links: