Childhood Obesity Initiative

First Lady announces obesity initiative with Sebelius, Benjamin.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (1/29, Keefe) reports that, "as she prepares to formally launch a national campaign against childhood obesity in the next several weeks," First Lady Michelle Obama on Thursday said that "unless something is done to reduce childhood obesity, America's children are on track to live shorter lives than their parents for the first time in US history."
Also on Thursday, "Benjamin released a report that serves as an update to a 2001 surgeon general's report that was a call to action against obesity," the AP (1/29, Benac) notes in its coverage. Benjamin said, "Although we've made some strides since 2001...the number of Americans -- like me -- who are struggling with their weight and health conditions related to their weight, remains too high."
CQ HealthBeat (1/29, Norman) explains that Benjamin's report "outlined her 'vision for a healthy and fit nation.' Among its recommendations are creating healthy schools and work sites, better instruction on health from healthcare providers and improved individual choices when it comes to sugary or high-fat foods."
Reuters (1/29, Allen) reports that, as part of the obesity initiative, Sebelius explained that $650 million in funds from the economic stimulus package would go to programs to prevent obesity and to help people quit smoking.
Politico (1/29, Henderson) adds that "in Wednesday's State of the Union address, President Obama linked the first lady's efforts to healthcare reform, saying that she was starting a 'national movement to tackle the epidemic of childhood obesity and make our kids healthier.'" WJLA-TV Washington, DC (1/29, Gibson) also covers the story.