From the Institute of Medicine

Measuring Progress in Obesity Prevention: Indicators and Data Sources

In 2012, the Institute of Medicine identified key goal areas for obesity prevention in the United States. How do we measure the success of our efforts? This tool provides indicators of progress and links to data sources for tracking change at the community and national levels.

Goals for America

Explore the goals below to learn about strategies for success in each area, see a list of progress indicators specific to each goal, and access data sources to assess or track improvement for each indicator.

Using our indicators

 "Indicators" are data or evidence that can be used to assess the status or trend of a person or population. Data in this tool are defined for use at the national  or community  level.  

More about the IOM's obesity prevention efforts

The 2012 IOM report  Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention: Solving the Weight of the Nation  recommended societal-level actions to accelerate progress in obesity prevention in the next decade and provided indicators to measure progress in implementing these actions.
 
In 2013, the IOM released the follow-up report  Evaluating Obesity Prevention Efforts: A Plan for Measuring Progress . The report draws on the recommendations of the 2012 report and proposes   a plan to measure progress in obesity prevention efforts, including new metrics.  


From the Institute of Medicine

Improve the collective impact of obesity prevention efforts

Indicators of progress in obesity, overweight, and other weight-related variables are useful for tracking the overall success of efforts to reduce obesity. Click for more detail about each indicator.

1. Obesity - adult

Reduce the proportion of adults who are obese (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30) a

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

2. Obesity - adolescent

Reduce the proportion of adolescents aged 12-19 who are considered obese.  c

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

3. Obesity - child

Reduce the proportion of children aged 6-11 who are considered obese b c

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

4. Obesity - preschool age

Reduce the proportion of children aged 2-5 who are considered obese b c

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

5. Overweight - adult

Reduce the proportion of adults who are considered overweight (BMI 25-29.9) d

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

6. Overweight - adolescent

Reduce the proportion of adolescents aged 12-19 who are considered overweight d

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

7. Overweight - child

Reduce the proportion of children aged 6-11 who are considered overweight d

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

8. Overweight - preschool age

Reduce the proportion of children aged 2-5 who are considered overweight d

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

9. Overweight - infant

Reduce the proportion of infants aged 0-2 with weight-for-length greater than the 95th percentile based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendation to use the World Health Organization (WHO) growth charts standard for birth to age 24 months

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

10. Gestational weight gain

Reduce gestational weight gain to meet the IOM (2009) recommendations for total and rate of weight gain based on pre-pregnancy BMI

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

11. Birth weight

Increase the number of children who are born with a birth weight that is appropriate for their gestational age

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

12. Maternal pre-pregnancy weight

Reduce the proportion of women whose pre-pregnancy weight is considered obese or overweight

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

13. Maternal post-pregnancy weight

Reduce the proportion of women who are considered obese or overweight post-pregnancy

Use these data sources to measure progress toward your goal.

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 1: Improve the Physical Activity Environment

General indicators of progress in promoting physical activity are useful for tracking the overall success of efforts to improve the physical activity environment.

General indicators of progress

Strategies for getting there

We can improve the physical activity environment by employing the following strategies. Click on a strategy to find indicators and data sources for measuring progress.



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 1: Improve the physical activity environment

General indicators of progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following general indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

14. Adult physical activity

14. Adult physical activity

Increase the proportion of adults who meet current federal physical activity guidelines for aerobic physical activity and for muscle-strengthening activity b c

15. Adolescent physical activity

15. Adolescent physical activity

Increase the proportion of adolescents who meet current federal physical activity guidelines for aerobic physical activity c

16. Child and adolescent daily vigorous physical activity

16. Child and adolescent daily vigorous physical activity

Increase the proportion of children aged 6-17 who engage in at least 20 minutes per day of vigorous physical activity

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).




From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 1.1

Enhance the physical and built environment

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

17. Joint/shared use of community facilities

17. Joint/shared use of community facilities

Increase the proportion of the nation’s public and private schools that provide access to their physical activity spaces and facilities for all persons outside of normal school hours (that is, before and after the school day, on weekends, and during summer and other vacations)

18. Policies promoting physical activity

18. Policies that promote physical activity and the built environment

Increase legislative policies for the built environment (i.e., community-scale, street-scale, and transportation and travel policies) that enhance access to and availability of physical activity opportunities  b (developmental)

19. Active transport by adults

19. Active transport by adults

Increase the proportion of walking trips made by adults for leisure or commuting to work b (developmental)

20. Active commuting to school

20. Active commuting to school

Increase the proportion of trips to school made by walking 1 mile or less or biking 2 miles or less by children aged 5 to 15 years b (developmental)

21. Bicycling by adults

21. Bicycling by adults

Increase the proportion of trips of 5 miles or less made by bicycling by adults for leisure or active transport for commuting purposes b (developmental)

22. Recreational facility outlet density

22. Recreational facility outlet density

Increase the proportion of recreation and fitness facilities per 1,000 people

23. Child/adolescent safe neighborhoods

23. Child and adolescent physical activity-related attitudes and perceptions

Increase the proportion of children aged 0-17 years living in safe neighborhoods

24. Child/adolescent supportive neighborhoods

24. Child and adolescent physical activity-related attitudes and perceptions

Increase the proportion of children aged 0-17 years living in safe neighborhoods

25. Older adult physical activity

25. Physical activity for older adults

Increase the proportion of older adults (aged 65 and older) with reduced physical or cognitive function who engage in light, moderate, or vigorous leisure-time physical activities b

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 1.2

Provide and support community programs designed to increase physical activity

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

26. Physical activity outside school

26. Nonschool organized physical activity-related activities

Increase the proportion of children aged 6-17 who participate in one or more organized physical activities outside of school, such as sports teams or lessons, clubs, or organizations



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 1.3

Adopt physical activity requirements for licensed child care providers

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

27. Physical activity requirements for licensed child care

27. Physical activity requirements for licensed child care

Increase the number of states with licensing regulations for physical activity in child care that require a number of minutes of physical activity per day or by length of time in care (physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity)

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 2: Improve the food and beverage environment

General indicators of progress in children and adults' caloric intake are useful for tracking the overall success of efforts to improve the food and beverage environment.

General indicators of progress

Strategies for getting there

We can measure the success of our efforts to improve the food and beverage environment by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 2: Improve the food and beverage environment

General indicators of progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following general indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

28. Adult energy intake

28. Adult energy intake

Reduce the mean calories consumed among adults to meet Dietary Guideline recommendations for age, gender, and activity levels

29. Child and adolescent energy intake

29. Child and adolescent energy intake

Reduce the mean calories consumed among children and adolescents aged 2 to 19 to meet Dietary Guideline recommendations for age, gender, and activity levels



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 2.1

Adopt policies and implement practices to reduce overconsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

30. Sugar-sweetened beverage policies in schools

30. Sugar-sweetened beverage policies in schools

States and school districts adopt policies that prohibit the sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in schools and require that schools offer a variety of no- or low-calorie beverage options that are favorably priced

31. Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption

31. Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption

Reduce energy intake from consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages

32. Price of low-fat milk

32. Price of low-fat milk

Reduce the relative price of low-fat milk (compared to soda/sweetened beverages)

33. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxation

33. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxation

Increase the number of states that adopt a law imposing an excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages and dedicating a portion of the revenue to obesity prevention programs

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 2.2

Increase the availability of lower-calorie and healthier food and beverage options for children in restaurants

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

34. Child and adolescent caloric intake in restaurants

34. Child and adolescent caloric intake in restaurants

Reduce caloric intake by children and adolescents in chain and quick-service restaurants

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 2.3

Utilize strong nutritional standards for all foods and beverages sold or provided through the government, and ensure that these healthy options are available in all places frequented by the public

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

35. Consumption of solid fats and added sugars

35. Consumption of solid fats and added sugars

Reduce consumption of calories from solid fats and added sugars in the population aged 2 years and older

36. Consumption of solid fats

36. Consumption of solid fats

Reduce consumption of calories from solid fats b

37. Consumption of added sugars

37. Consumption of added sugars

Reduce consumption of calories from added sugars b

38. Clean drinking water in schools

38. School policies to facilitate access to clean drinking water

Increase the proportion of states and school districts with policies that require schools to provide access to free, clean, potable water throughout the school setting d

39. Consumption of fruits

39. Consumption of fruits

Increase the contribution of fruits to the diets of the population aged 2 years and older b

40. Consumption of vegetables

40. Consumption of vegetables

Increase the variety and contribution of total vegetables to the diets of the population aged 2 years and older b c

41. Consumption of whole grains

41. Consumption of whole grains

Increase the contribution of whole grains to the diets of the population aged 2 years and older b

42. Healthy vending policies in federal worksites

42. Healthy vending policies in federal buildings and worksites

The federal government expands its healthy vending/concession guidelines to include all federal government-owned, -operated, and -occupied buildings, worksites, and facilities d

43. Nutrition standards in child care

43. Nutrition standards in child care

Increase the number of states with nutrition standards for foods and beverages provided to preschool-aged children in child care b

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 2.4

Introduce, modify, and utilize health-promoting food and beverage retailing and distribution policies

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

44. Food retail incentive policies

44. Food retail incentive policies

Increase the number of states that have state-level policies that incentivize food retail outlets to provide foods that are encouraged by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans

45. Fast food outlet density

45. Fast food outlet density

Reduce the density of fast-food restaurants (per 100,000 population)

46. Healthy food outlet density

46. Healthy food outlet density

Increase the proportion of healthy food outlets in communities across the United States

47. Price of fruit and vegetable

47. Price of fruit and vegetable

Decrease the relative price of fruit and vegetables (compared to snack items)

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 3: Improve the messaging environment

Strategies for getting there

We can measure the success of our efforts to improve the messaging environment by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 3.1

Develop and support a sustained, targeted physical activity and nutrition social marketing program

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

48. Funding for national social marketing program

48. Funding for national social marketing program

Federal funding for sustained, targeted physical activity and nutrition social marketing campaign, and designation of a lead federal agency to oversee it

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 3.2

Implement common standards for marketing foods and beverages to children and adolescents

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

49. Television marketing to youth

49. Television marketing of foods and beverages to children and adolescents

Increase the proportion of foods and beverages marketed to children and adolescents that are recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and reduce the proportion of foods and beverages marketed that are not recommended by the Dietar Guidelines for Americans

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 3.3

Ensure consistent nutrition labeling for the front of packages, retail store shelves, and menus and menu boards that encourages healthier food choices

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

50. Purchase of foods and beverages

50. Purchase of foods and beverages recommended in Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Increase purchases of reformulated foods that meet the definition in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans of foods and beverages people should consume in greater quantities and reduce purchasing of items not recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans d

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 3.4

Adopt consistent nutrition education policies for federal programs with nutrition education components

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

51. Federal nutrition education policies

51. Nutrition education policies for federal nutrition programs

Increase the proportion of states that adopt SNAP-Ed curricula that note which foods and beverages to increase (i.e., those recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans) and which to decrease (e.g., solid fats and added sugars) d

52. Food and beverage purchases by SNAP participants

52. Purchase by SNAP participants of foods and beverages recommended in Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Increase the proportion of foods and beverages purchased by SNAP participants that are recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and decrease the proportion of foods and beverages purchased that are not recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans d

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 4: Improve Healthcare and Worksites

Strategies for getting there

We can measure the success of our efforts to improve the food and beverage environment by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 4.1

Provide standardized care and advocate for healthy community environments

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

53. Community-based preventive nutrition services

53. Community-based primary prevention nutrition-related services

Increase the number of community-based organizations (including local health departments, tribal health services, nongovernmental organizations, and state agencies) providing population-based primary prevention services in the following area: nutrition

54. Community-based preventive physical activity services

54. Community-based primary prevention physical activity-related services

Increase the number of community-based organizations (including local health departments, tribal health services, nongovernmental organizations, and state agencies) providing population-based primary prevention services in the following area: physical activity b

55. BMI measurement by physicians

55. BMI measurement by physicians

Increase the proportion of primary care physicians who regularly measure the body mass index of their patients b

56. Nutrition/weight counseling by physicians

56. Nutrition/weight counseling by physicians

Increase the proportion of physician office visits that include counseling or education related to nutrition or weight b

57. Physical activity-related counseling by physicians

Physical activity-related counseling by physicians

Increase the proportion of physician office visits that include counseling or education related to physical activity

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 4.2

Ensure coverage of, access to, and incentives for routine obesity prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

58. Insurance incentives for healthful lifestyles

58. Insurance incentives for healthful lifestyles

Increase the number of health plans that include incentives for maintaining healthful lifestyles d

59. Obesity policies in health plans

59. Obesity screening and promotion strategies offered by health plans

Increase the number of health plans that promote obesity screening and prevention d

60. Obesity prevention reimbursement strategies

60. Obesity screening and prevention reimbursement strategies offered by health plans

Increase the number of health care plans that use innovative reimbursement strategies for screening and obesity prevention services d

61. Obesity screening and prevention metrics

61. Obesity screening and prevention metrics

Increase the number of health plans reporting and achieving obesity prevention and screening metrics, including universal BMI assessment, weight assessment, and counseling on physical activity and nutrition for children, adolescents, and adults d

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 4.3

Encourage active living and healthy eating at work

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

62. Employee health promotion programs

62. Employee health promotion programs

Increase the proportion of worksites that offer an employee health promotion program to their employees b (developmental)

63. Employee participation in health promotion programs

63. Employee participation in health promotion programs

Increase the proportion of employees who participate in employer-sponsored health promotion activities b (developmental)

64. Employee participation in exercise programs

64. Employee participation in exercise programs

Increase the proportion of employed adults who have access to and participate in employer-based exercise facilities and exercise programs b (developmental)

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 4.4

Encourage healthy weight gain during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and promote breastfeeding-friendly environments

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

65. Exclusive breastfeeding

65. Exclusive breastfeeding

Increase the proportion of children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years old who were exclusively breastfed or given breast milk for their first six months

66. Hospital breastfeeding policies

66. Hospital breastfeeding policies

Increase the percentage of U.S. hospitals with policies and practices to support breastfeeding d

67. Employer lactation-support programs

67. Employer lactation-support programs

Increase the proportion of employers that have worksite lactation - support programs b

68. Breastfeeding disparities

68. Breastfeeding disparities

Reduce disparities in breastfeeding initiation and maintenance d

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Goal Area 5: Improve school and child care environments

Strategies for getting there

We can measure the success of our efforts to improve the food and beverage environment by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

Related and Relevant Indicators

Related Indicators

82. College physical education

Increase the proportion of college and university students who receive information from their institution on the priority health risk behavior area: inadequate physical activity

83. College nutrition education

Increase the proportion of college and university students who receive information from their institution on the priority health risk behavior area: unhealthy dietary patterns

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 5.1

Require quality physical education and opportunities for physical activity in schools

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

69. Daily school physical education - adolescents

69. Daily school physical education - adolescents

Increase the proportion of adolescents who participate in daily school physical education

70. Daily school physical education - school

70. Daily school physical education - school

Increase the proportion of public and private schools that require daily physical education for all students b

71. School recess—state

71. School recess—state

Increase the number of states that require regularly scheduled elementary school recess b

72. School recess—school district

72. School recess—school district

Increase the proportion of school districts that require regularly scheduled elementary school recess b

73. School recess time

73. School recess time

Increase the proportion of school districts that require or recommend elementary school recess for an appropriate period of time b

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 5.2

Ensure strong nutritional standards for all foods and beverages sold or provided through schools

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

74. Availability of healthy food options in schools

74. Availability of healthy food options in schools

Increase the proportion of school districts that require schools to make fruits or vegetables available whenever other food is offered or sold

75. School Breakfast Program in schools

75. School Breakfast Program in schools

Increase the proportion of schools with a School Breakfast Program b

76. Child school dietary intake

76. Child school dietary intake

Increase the proportion of children and adolescents aged 5-18 who consume foods and beverages at school recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans d

77. Federal school meal standards

77. Federal school meal standards

Increase the proportion of schools offering meals that meet the 2012 federal nutrition standards for school meals

78. Child school dietary intake of fats and sugars

78. Child school dietary intake of solid fats and added sugars (SOFAS)

Decrease the proportion of children and adolescents aged 5-18 who consume foods and beverages at school not recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans such as those containing solid fats and added sugars (SOFAS) d

79. Farm-to-School programs

79. Farm-to-School programs

Increase the number of schools with Farm - to-School programs

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).



From the Institute of Medicine

Strategy 5.3

Ensure food literacy in schools

Indicators to measure progress

We can measure the success of our efforts by assessing and tracking the following indicators of progress. Click for more detail about each indicator.

80. National Health Education Standards

80. National Health Education Standards

Increase the proportion of schools that require cumulative instruction in health education that meet the National Health Education Standards for elementary, middle, and senior high schools

81. Nutrition professional development for teachers

81. Nutrition professional development for teachers

Increase the proportion of required health education classes or courses taught by a teacher who has had professional development related to nutrition and dietary behavior within the past 2 years

Notes

*The indicators in this report are best aligned with the recommendations included in the IOM’s Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention report (IOM, 2012) based on available and ongoing data sources.

NOTE: Physical activity is defined to include large muscle or gross motor activity, development, and/or equipment as well as vigorous or moderate physical activity.

a Objective wording based on wording available from data source and/or Healthy People 2020 (HHS, 2010) wording, if applicable. 

b Healthy People 2020 indicator (HHS, 2010). “Developmental” indicates that there is no baseline data available for the indicator and therefore does not currently have a set target.

c Leading Health Indicators are a subset of the Healthy People 2020 indicators selected on priority health issues (HHS, 2010).

d Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention indicator (IOM, 2012).

e Additional indicators in this table of interest to the school and child care environment include: school (#30 and 38) and child care (#27 and 43).