As many begin 2007 with a resolution to finally lose weight, consider this: 70 percent of high school students in Hawai'i do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, according to the most recent survey by the Centers for Disease Control.

In a 2006 report released by the American Heart Association, Hawai'i ranked as one of the 11 worst states in meeting physical education requirements for schools.

So, it's no surprise that 14 percent of high school students were considered overweight. And among younger children, health officials say that number is even higher.

Childhood obesity has been rising at an alarming rate, and it can lead to Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

"In 2000, the percentage of kids considered obese was 15.5 percent. Now it's 17.1 percent. The P.E. system in our schools is practically nonexistent," said Dr. Stephen Bradley with the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center.

Certified P.E. teachers do exist in high schools, but not in all elementary schools.

While the No Child Left Behind Act focuses on increasing test scores, physical education is not part of the mandate. Children's health should not be sacrificed for scores.

Indeed, it is not the sole responsibility of our public education system to keep our children physically active. But it can surely play a key role.

That education also must be enforced in the home. Computers and TV make it easy for children to remain sedentary, but parents can intervene by increasing family activity, such as taking walks or hikes together, and eating nutritious meals together.

Many of us can relate to that annual goal of shedding some pounds. But battling childhood obesity means more than a New Year resolution.

It's a lifelong change.