Today, about one of three American kids and teens are overweight or obese, nearly triple the rate in 1963. Among children today, obesity is causing a broad range of health problems that previously weren't seen until adulthood. These include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and elevated blood cholesterol levels. There are also psychological effects. Obese children are more prone to low self-esteem, negative body image and depression. However, there's good news. Obesity can be stopped. And it doesn't take high-tech treatments or cutting edge medications. The solution begins and ends with the daily decisions we make. The American Heart Association is working to help kids and families live heart-healthy lives. Use the resources to help your family live longer, healthier lives.
The children obesity become overweight and obese for a variety of reasons. The most common causes are genetic factors, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating patterns or an combination of these factors. Only in rare cases is being overweight caused by a medical condition such as a harmonal problem. A physical exam and some blood tests can rule out the possibility of a medical condition as the cause for obesity. Weight problems run in families, not all children with a family history of obesity will be overweight. Children whose parents or brothers or sisters are overweight may be at an increased risk of becoming overweight themselves, but this can be linked to shared family behaviors such as eating and activity habits.
A children's total diet is and activity level play an important role in determining a child's weight. Today, many children spend a lot time being inactive. For example, the average child spends approximately four hours each day watching television. As computers and video games become increasingly popular, the number of hours of inactivity may increase.
Obese Children are at risk for a number of conditions, including
- High Cholesterol
- High Blood Pressure
- Early Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Bone problems
- Skin conditions such as heat rash, fungal infections and acne.
However, overweight children are at high risk of becoming overweight adolescents and adults, placing them at risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes later in life. They are also more prone to develop stress, sadness and low self-esteem.