Creating a Tipping Point: Texas Obesity Policy Actions in Review, 2000–2010

This paper discusses the historical context and current challenges of obesity prevention and control initiatives in Texas to understand how the obesity epidemic has been addressed by multiple interacting stakeholders over the past decade. By reviewing state reports and interviewing key decision makers, this paper chronicles recent efforts in Texas by highlighting health policy initiatives and champions who helped to create the foundation for obesity prevention and control. The findings outline the sentinel policy approaches that were implemented by public/private sector partnerships over the last decade, as well as the public figures that have been singular champions in creating the momentum for these changes. The efforts to address obesity with a collaborative approach in Texas have shown initial promise in creating a tipping point to control the obesity epidemic. These strategies can also serve as a model for obesity prevention and control at the national level.