Kansas State, Iowa State research child obesity program

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MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Researchers from Kansas State University and Iowa State University are using a $2.8 million grant to research a school-based program that combats childhood obesity.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced last month that the grant had been awarded to evaluate a program called SWITCH. It focuses on decreasing children's screen time, increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and increasing physical activity. The motto is that children need to "switch what they do, view and chew."

Efforts involve helping to create healthier school environments.