Childhood obesity

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An obese girl (identity protected)

Childhood obesity is a medical condition that affects children. It is characterized by a weight well above the mean for their height and age and a body mass index well above the norm. Childhood obesity is considered by many to be an "epidemic" in the Commonwealth Countries and the USA (especially the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia). Over 15% of American children are currently considered obese, and the number is growing. [1]

1 Causes
2 Complications
3 Studies
4 References
5 External links

[edit] Causes

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As with many conditions, childhood obesity can be brought on by a range of factors, often in combination.

[edit] Hereditary

Often, a child whose parents are overweight or obese will also be overweight or obese. Although this is often caused by shared unhealthy eating habits in the household, it has been suggested that there may be a genetic (inherited) predisposition towards being, although this is as yet unproven and research is ongoing. Many children become slightly overweight because of their body's growth pattern. Some pediatricians may still classify this as childhood obesity.^{[citations needed]}

[edit] Acquired

Children who do not engage in frequent physical activity are much more likely to suffer from obesity. Experts believe that this is due to the recent technological developments, including video games, computers, and mobile phones. Physically inactive children are unable to burn off the calories that they gain from eating. The body will store some or all of the unused energy as fat. ^{[citations needed]}

Childhood obesity may also result from unhealthy eating habits. Fast food restaurants and junk food are becoming increasingly popular with children. In lieu of home cooking, it has become common for parents to take their children out to eat. Even when it is not a fast food restaurant, frequent eating out often results in weight gain.

Also, children in lower-income households are more likely to become overweight than those in higher-income households. Not eating breakfast is also associated with an increase in obesity.[2]

[edit] Marketing and advertising

Also, parenting groups are now blaming fast food and junk food companies for advertising on television, internet websites and other forms of media. There is growing evidence to support these concerns. [3] [4] See fast food advertising.

[edit] Complications

Without a change in diet or exercise patterns, childhood obesity can lead to life-threatening conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep problems, cancer, and other disorders.[5][6] Studies have shown that overweight children are more likely to grow up to be overweight adults.[7]

Obese children often suffer from teasing amongst their peers.[8][9] Some are even harassed or discriminated against by their own family.[10] Stereotypes abound and may lead to low self esteem and depression.[11]

[edit] Studies

A study of 1800 children aged 2 to 12 in Colac, Australia tested a program of restricted diet (no carbonated drinks or sweets) and increased exercise. Interim results included a 68% increase in after school activity programs, 21% reduction in television viewing, and an average of 1 kg weight reduction compared to a control group.^[1]