• Women make 80% of healthcare decisions in households (American Heart Association).

• By training female college students to become health leaders, SMC equips them to inspire healthier families and communities.

• Nearly 1 in 5 children and adolescents are overweight or have obesity (CDC).

• Obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents over the past 30 years, leading to rising rates of diabetes, heart disease, and other preventable illnesses.

• Childhood obesity costs the U.S. $1.3 billion annually in direct healthcare costs (CDC).

• 52% of college students do not exercise regularly, and many gain an average of 10 pounds in their first two years at school.

• 1 in 4 college women experience an eating disorder, further emphasizing the need for holistic health education.

• Just 150 minutes of exercise per week, and a healthy diet can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, some cancers, and type 2 diabetes. (CDC)

• Physically active girls report higher self-esteem and greater satisfaction with their weight—regardless of their size.

• Encouraging movement, balanced nutrition, and confidence early creates lifelong habits that combat chronic illnesses.

Childhood obesity affects all demographics, but minority populations face disproportionate challenges:

• 2 out of 3 Black and Hispanic children born after 2000 are overweight or obese.

• 9.4% of children ages 2-5 already have obesity, with rates climbing to 20.6% among teens (NHANES).

• If current trends continue, today’s youth may become the first generation to have a shorter lifespan than their parents.

Increased awareness and prevention efforts save millions in healthcare costs while improving the quality and longevity of lives. By investing in young women and empowering them to lead, SMC ensures the next generation receives a healthy start in life.