Obesity has reached epidemic proportions nationwide among children, adolescents, and adults and is considered one of the most serious health problems facing Americans today. There is a higher prevalence of obesity among ethnic minority groups and those with a lower family income. American Indian children and adults are among those with the highest rates of obesity and related diseases. Young American Indians have high rates of type 2 diabetes, and the rates appear to be increasing substantially. Obesity in American Indian children has serious implications for their immediate and long-term health. Unless this trend is reversed, American Indian populations will be burdened by an unprecedented increase in the incidence of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.