“Houston, we have a problem.” According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, over the past decade, the prevalence of obesity in children has doubled. The prevalence of obesity in adolescents has tripled. In 2007, 32 percent of Texas high-school students were overweight or obese. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 31.9% of children and adolescents were overweight (BMI at or above the 85th percentile) and 16.3% were obese (BMI at or above 95th percentile). Due to the rising prevalence of pediatric obesity, it is recognized as a serious public health concern.
Children and adolescents who are overweight and/or obese are at a higher risk for potentially fatal health problems as they grow older. Some of the more obvious physical health conditions resulting from obesity are asthma, sleep apnea, dermatological skin conditions and joint pain. Underneath the excess skin, there can be serious and life-threatening illnesses such as diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension (high blood pressure). Overweight adolescents and children can also develop fatty liver disease and gallstones.
Not only do these obese kids develop physical health issues, but being overweight can create serious mental health problems such as low self-esteem, unrealistic body image, anxiety and depression. These factors can contribute to poor academic performance which only compounds their low self-esteem issues. Within their own peer group, they suffer from teasing and bullying which can produce long-term negative effects on their mental health.
There are many different factors which contribute to pediatric obesity. The most obvious is a child’s eating habits. Today’s fast-paced society has contributed to having calorie-rich foods and liquids obtainable. Eating at fast food restaurants has become an integral part of daily routine for families. A popular McDonald’s commercial shows a mother and father competing to provide a “Happy Meal” for a small child. In addition, fast food establishments give out toys in their children’s meal as an enticement for return business. Another contributing factor in pediatric obesity is lack of exercise. Children and adolescents stay inside playing video games or watching television. America has evolved into a society of couch potatoes. Children who don’t exercise are more likely to become overweight because they aren’t burning calories through physical exercise. Children who come from a family of overweight people are genetically predisposed to becoming obese, especially in an environment where high-calorie food is always available and physical activity isn’t encouraged.
Since medications and surgery aren’t recommended for school age children, there are healthy choices parents can implement to reduce negative behavior patterns. Even small changes can make a huge difference in a child’s life. With regards to healthy eating, parents are the ones who buy the food so parents can control what is consumed by their children. When shopping at a local grocery store, choose fruits and vegetables. Foods of convenience, such as cookies, crackers, and prepared meals contain large amounts of sugar, preservatives and fats. Limit the intake of high-calorie liquids and sweetened beverages, including fruit juices. Liquids of this type provide limited nutrients and unlimited calories. When approaching meal time, make a plan to sit together for family meals. Eating in front of the television, computer screen or video game leads to eating quickly and a lowered awareness of the volume of food consumed. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) in 2007, 39% of Texas adolescents in grades 9-12 watch television for 3 or more hours per day on an average school day. Prepare meals at home with children rather than eating out at restaurants as many menu options are loaded in sodium, saturated fats and calories.
Combining physical activity with healthier eating choices can help fight the battle against childhood obesity. Other suggestions from the Mayo Clinic to increase physical activity in children are to limit television and video game time to two hours or less per day. Another consideration would be to limit other sedentary activities such as telephone & computer usage. When considering exercise, focus on fun activities such as playing tag, hide & seek or hiking a trail to look for unique leaves or creatures. As the parent, set the example by being engaged in physical activity and including all family members in these activities.
Parents are crucial to the emotional needs and development of children, overweight or not. Take advantage of every opportunity to praise children verbally. An overweight child struggles with their self-esteem and body image, so be sensitive to the needs and feelings. Be aware that a child may view your concern as a reprimand or insult. Be direct, honest and open with children without being critical or judgmental when discussing their weight.
There are no set answers or solutions to this overwhelming issue. There isn’t a magic want to be waived and “Poof” children will lose weight instantly. This problem takes dedication and hard work from the children suffering from obesity and every member of their respective support system. Houston, we MUST find a solution!
