The effect of fast-food restaurants on childhood obesity: A school level analysis

•We model the effects of proximity to fast-food restaurants on school obesity rates.•We use an IV model identifying the effects of fast-food restaurant on school weight.•Results show fast food restaurants within a mile from the school affect obesity.

We analyze, using an instrumental variable approach, the effect of the number of fast-food restaurants on school level obesity rates in Arkansas. Using distance to the nearest major highway as an instrument, our results suggest that exposure to fast-food restaurants can impact weight outcomes. Specifically, we find that the number of fast-food restaurants within a mile from the school can significantly affect school level obesity rates.