California voters consider obesity top health risk for kids

Nearly half of California's voters said lack of exercise or unhealthy eating was the greatest health risk for children, according to a statewide poll released Wednesday.

Forty-eight percent of voters responding to the Field Poll were worried about the risk of obesity, up from 35% in 2003.

Almost three-quarters of voters said the community shares the responsibility with families for prevention efforts. They said schools should encourage physical activity and governments should improve public safety so children can get more exercise.

A much smaller percentage of California voters -- 22% -- considered illegal drug use the biggest health risk for children.

The poll was conducted on behalf of the California Endowment.

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