About Us

The mission of the Duke Healthy Lifestyle Program is to empower children and adolescents to achieve a healthier lifestyle through family-based education, clinical care and behavioral change; to develop innovative solutions and disseminate knowledge regarding the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity; and to partner with communities to promote wellness in the environments where children live, learn and play.

Obesity-related co-morbid health conditions are the second leading cause of preventable death, following tobacco use. One-third of children and adolescents in the United States are overweight or obese, and the dramatic rise in the prevalence of pediatric obesity has been predicted to lead to a decline in overall life expectancy. Obese children are at high risk for dyslipidemia, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Obese children are also more likely to suffer from obesity as adults. Given the large number of children who are overweight or obese, there is an overwhelming need for effective treatment for overweight and obese children.

The Healthy Lifestyles Program comprises four key services: clinical care, advocacy, education and research.