Obesity is a growing health concern in the U.S. When it affects teenagers, obesity can lead health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, depression and low self-esteem. Understanding the facts about teen obesity in the U.S. allows teens to make the changes necessary to reduce weight and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Prevalence
Childhood obesity is growing at an alarming rate in the U.S. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says the condition has more than tripled in the last 30 years among U.S. kids and teens. Obesity is a complex condition resulting from a combination of factors. Poor eating habits, lack of exercise, stressful life events and a family history of obesity are some of the possible causes in teens.
Lifelong Obesity
Obese teens are at an increased risk for becoming obese adults. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says kids who are obese between ages 10 and 13 have an 80 percent chance of being obese in adulthood. The habits set in place during the formative childhood and adolescent years often persist into adulthood, which largely explains this phenomenon. For this reason, the importance of practicing healthy eating and exercise habits early in life cannot be overstated.
Health Risks
Obesity causes many of the same physical and psychological problems in teens as it does in adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list high blood pressure, sleep apnea and bone and joint problems as potential outcomes of childhood obesity. Other complications include diabetes, high cholesterol and coronary heart disease. In addition to its physical effects, obesity can cause serious emotional issues for teens. According to E Med TV, severely obese children rated their quality of life with scores similar to those of kids undergoing cancer chemotherapy.
Prevention and Treatment
Obesity is a preventable and manageable health condition. A nutritious diet low in saturated fat and sugar helps reduce the amount of calories that enter the body. Regular exercise burns excess calories that would otherwise be stored as fat. Encouraging an active lifestyle for obese teens helps provide motivation for losing weight. Limit the amount of time spent on sedentary activities such as television and video games while pursuing physically active hobbies such as team sports and outdoor activities. In severe cases, additional measures may be needed to manage obesity in teens. Medical interventions including medication and surgery offer hope for kids with treatment-resistant obesity, though they carry their own risks.
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