MayoClinic.com defines childhood obesity as a condition that occurs when a child is well above the normal weight range for her height and age. Because of sedentary lifestyles, lack of access to healthful foods and other factors, the rate of childhood obesity has risen steadily since the 1970s. This increase in childhood obesity has physical, emotional and financial effects.
Risks
Childhood obesity increases the risk for medical problems, especially if obesity continues into adulthood. One of the major risks of obesity is metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk for diabetes, heart disease and other problems. The conditions involved with metabolic syndrome include high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and too much fat around the abdomen. Childhood obesity also increases the risk for type 2 diabetes, asthma, respiratory problems, early menstruation and sleep disorders.
Causes
Several factors contribute to obesity in children. In many cases, a lack of exercise and poor diet result in the consumption of too many calories. The body needs a specific number of calories to carry out its functions. Once these functions occur, the body stores extra calories, leading to weight gain. Medical conditions such as Prader-Willi syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome contribute to obesity because they affect hormone levels. Antidepressants, corticosteroids, beta-blockers and anti-seizure drugs may cause obesity. The Merck Manuals Home Edition explains that Pacific Islanders, African Americans and Hispanics have an increased risk of obesity when compared to people of other ethnic origins.
Effects
Obesity changes the structures of the body, making it difficult for the heart and other organs to function properly. The extra fat that builds up in obesity needs oxygen and nutrients. The heart has to work harder to pump these nutrients to the excess fat tissue. The increased workload of the heart increases the risk for a fast heartbeat and higher blood pressure. Excess fat also builds up in the liver and around the abdominal organs, increasing the risk of serious complications. The extra weight puts more stress on the joints, which results in an increased risk for arthritis, hip problems and other joint issues.
Statistics
Obesity in children ages 2 to 5 increased from 5 percent in between 1976 and 1980 to 10.4 percent in 2007 and 2008, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC reports that obesity among children ages 6 to 11 also increased during that period, from 6.5 percent to 19.6 percent.
Prevention/Solution
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published in 2000, recommends following the ABCs for good health. You should aim for fitness by getting regular physical activity. Examples of activities that burn calories and improve physical fitness include walking, aerobics classes, swimming, jogging and cycling. Build a healthy lifestyle by eating a variety of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. The third component of the ABCs is choosing a diet that has low amounts of cholesterol, sugar, saturated fat and sodium.
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