Based on a recent study that suggests high obesity rates in South Los Angeles may be related to a high concentration of convenience stores, the city is seeking to limit the number of convenience stores in the area.

The study, conducted by the Rand Corp., found that South Los Angeles has a significantly higher number of convenience stores that sell high-calorie snacks than other areas of Los Angeles. The study also found that residents of South Los Angeles have higher rates of obesity than residents of other areas of the city.

The proposed action would prohibit new stores from opening within a half mile of an existing store unless it sells fresh fruit and vegetables. Lark Galloway-Gilliam, executive director of Community Health Councils Inc., commented on the strategy: "We need to look at a moratorium on these convenience stores."

Study author Roland Sturm warned, however, that regulating store locations may not be a sound strategy for addressing South Los Angeles' obesity problem. "Clearly these stores are a source of excess calories, especially in children," he said. "But people need access to food that is reachable. I would be hesitant to prohibit the development of these stores."

(Source: www.nacsonline.com)

Labels: obesity

Posted By: Aspen Education Group