Childhood obesity has become a public health concern because it leads to complications that can occur during youth and persist throughout life. According to estimates from the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled over the past 30 years. Chidren who are overweight are at risk for diseases and are more likely to die at a young age.
Impaired Glucose Metabolism
The journal "Diabetes Care" states that impaired glucose metabolism is one of the earliest changes seen in obese children, leading to early morbidity and mortality. Insulin resistance from impaired glucose metabolism increases the risk of diabetes. The assessment of the impact of metabolic dysfunction from impaired use of glucose in the body appears in the article "Metabolic Complications of Childhood Obesity," published February 2008.
Decreased Bone Mass
Decreased bone mass has been found in children who are obese. Findings published in the "International Journal of Obesity", May 2000, determined that overweight children have bone mass density that is disproportionate to body mass. The study, titled "Overweight and obese children have low bone mass and area for their weight," suggests that obesity in children could lead to susceptibility to fractures and osteoarthritis later in life.
High Blood Pressure
Obese children are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure compared to children who are not overweight. The effect of high blood pressure can extend into adulthood and increase the risk of early death. Information provided by the American Academy of Family Physicians warns that obese children have higher average blood pressures, heart rate and cardiac output, posing dangers to cardiovascular health.
Type II Diabetes
Type II diabetes has become more prevalent among children due to obesity. The National Institutes of Health finds double the rate of childhood obesity in the last two to three decades, leading to increased prevalence of type II diabetes in children.
Asthma
Childhood obesity increases the risk for asthma. The study "Obesity and the Risk of Newly Diagnosed Asthma in School-age Children," published in 2003 in the "American Journal of Epidemiology," concluded that overweight children are at increased risk for new onset of asthma from increased body mass index.
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