We all know that childhood obesity is a problem in the United States, with about 17% of children ages 2-19 suffering currently suffering from obesity. However, is childhood obesity an issue in Wayland? That is to be determined by the Massachusetts Public Health Council, which has appointed a board of doctors and other employees to begin screenings of first, fourth, seventh, and tenth graders starting next fall.

The majority of doctors and medical associations are in full support of these screenings. Obesity is a disease that often leads to heart attacks and other health issues. Doctors are hopeful that the screenings will help with prevention and awareness of the disease, and will thus eliminate more health problems for these children down the road. Parents will receive a “score card,” updating or alerting them about their child’s weight, and the parents will also be able to decide whether or not to take action. “I think it’s a good idea, as far as awareness,” says school nurse, Amy Schoeff. “There won’t be any surprises, and having an absolute number is good.” Schoeff, however, does have a concern about the unguided weight loss that may follow the screenings. “It would be better if the parents received guidelines for safe weight loss,” she says.

Many recognize the thin line between the promotion of healthy eating and the promotion of unhealthy weight loss. “I think [the screenings] could definitely cause some very unhealthy habits for people under pressure to lose weight,” says Wayland High School junior Jon Bailey. Many students hope that the state will be able to address these concerns before launching the screenings in public schools around the state next fall.