How Much Do You Know

How Much Do You Know

About Childhood Obesity

Did you know nearly 1 out of 3 children in the United States are obese or overweight before their 5th birthday? With the prevalence of obesity steadily climbing the charts one can only question why obesity would be increasing so quickly. The answer to this is that there are, “many factors usually working in combinations,” (Mayo Clinic). Childhood obesity child can lead to a number of problems not only during childhood but have later in adulthood as well.

There are many health concerns with being overweight in general. However, concerning obese children it is important to understand that their weight is reducing the quality and even length of their lives already at such a young age. Obese children run the risk of developing diabetes type II, cardiovascular issues, and sleep apnea to name a few physical illnesses. According to the CDC, in a population based sample of 5-17 year olds 70% of obese youth showed risk factors for cardiovascular disease. But we also have to think about the, psychological damage they could face such as, “stigmatization and poor self-esteem,” (cdc.gov, Aug 2015). These children also run the risk of becoming obese as adults. This increases their risk for a number of cancers, stroke, and joint problems.

There are obvious causes of childhood obesity such as the child’s diet and exercise routine but there are also factors people don’t take into consideration like socioeconomic status and school factors. When we think about obesity from a socioeconomic standpoint we think in terms of limited means and access to resources for not only nutritional food but also safe places and equipment to use. This stands true for the school as well. In a low socioeconomic area the school will have less money to afford up to date PE or playground equipment. There are also other ways schools are enabling the childhood obesity rate by their participation in reducing physical education requirements and taking away recess.

Some solutions to this could begin with lifestyle changes within the family such as healthy eating and physical activity. This is the steeple of change because children and adolescents are influenced by their families, communities, schools, and care settings. Schools play a particularly critical role by establishing a safe and supportive environment with policies and practices that support healthy behaviors. Schools also provide opportunities for students to learn about and practice healthy eating and physical activity behaviors.

There are plenty of ways to get involved and help lower the prevalence of childhood obesity. Such as volunteering your time as a mentor for programs like Jump Rope for Heart, Let’s Move, and S.T.E.P.S.

For More Information visit these websites:

Center for Disease Control

Mayo Clinic

Obesity Society

References:

Prevention/Wellness Programs. (2008). Retrieved September 20, 2015.

http://www.americanobesity.org/preventionPrograms.htm

"Obesity Prevention." Center for Disease Control. Center for Disease Control, 27 Aug. 2015. Web. 18 Sept. 2015. http://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/obesity/facts.htm

Childhood Obesity. (2015, April 10). Retrieved September 18, 2015. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhood-obesity/basics/risk-factors/con-20027428

Serdula, M., Ivery, D., Coates, R., Freedman, D., Williamson, D., & Byers, T. (n.d.). Do Obese Children Become Obese Adults? A Review of the Literature. Preventive Medicine, 167-177.