As Let’s Move! approaches its fourth year, First Lady Michelle Obama discussed how the initiative is changing the way kids eat and stay active in the American Public Health Association’s (APHA) November edition of their publication, The Nation’s Health. The publication was disseminated at the National APHA Conference in early November and has more than 24,000 print readers (public health professionals, Members of Congress, subscribers, and the media); 50,000 online readers; 13,000 visits per month to the website; approximately 250,000 Twitter followers. 

In the Q&A, Mrs. Obama focused on what progress Let’s Move! has already made, citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report showing that after steadily increasing for the past three decades, obesity rates are beginning to decline among low-income preschoolers. Mrs. Obama also discussed improvements that have been made to school meals and how some restaurants have committed to offering healthier options for kids. In addition, local elected officials and child care centers across the country are signing up to be a part of Let’s Move! and becoming champions for health in their communities.

“I am thrilled to see that so many people have really taken Let’s Move! and made it their own — in their communities, in their families, and in their homes,” the First Lady said.

Mrs. Obama also discussed how businesses and the public health sector can do their part in supporting healthier kids and families by making the healthy choice the easy choice for families. Additionally, she stressed the importance of collaborative efforts between all sectors of society in working toward the common goal of ensuring kids and families are healthy.

“I think that one reason why we’re seeing change happening is that we helped people understand that everyone has a role to play in helping our kids lead healthier lives, and we’ve encouraged everyone to do their part to help,” Mrs. Obama said. “And, so many different people are working together, stepping up to address this epidemic in their communities.”

Check out the full APHA Q&A with the First Lady here! and share with your friends and colleagues.