What Are Some Statistics About Overweight Kids?

According to the American Heart Association, about one in three American kids and teens are overweight or obese, nearly triple the rate in 1963. Children and teens are considered overweight if they are in the 95th percentile or above for weight on the Centers for Disease Control growth chart. Former General Surgeon, Richard Carmona believes today's youth may be the first generation to be less healthy and have a shorter life expectancy than their parents.

Physical Consequences

Obesity has an impact on both physical and emotional health. One study showed that of the sample population of 5 to 17 year old, 70 percent of obese youth had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Overweight children and teens have a greater risk of developing type two diabetes, sleep apnea, and bone and joint problems. Overweight kids often have shortness of breath during physical activity, which may increase the chances of developing asthma.

Psychological Consequences

Along with physical problems, many overweight kids have psychological issues. Children and teens unhappy with their weight are more likely to have self-esteem issues as well as depression than kids of average weight. Overweight teens often feel lonely and isolated and have a greater chance of turning to drugs and alcohol to self medicate. Overweight kids are more likely to develop eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, than their average weight peers.

Inactivity

Today, children and teens are less active on a daily basis than in previous decades. The National Academy of Sports Medicine reports that 40 years ago, 42 percent of elementary and secondary students walked or biked to or from school. By 2005, this percentage dropped to 16 percent. On average, children 6 and older spend nearly 6 hours a day in front of a computer, hand held video game or television screen.

Diet

Diet is a major contributor to the youth obesity epidemic. With the rise of single-parent homes and those with both parents working, prepackaged and take-out foods have become the norm. One study found that over a seven day period, almost 80 percent of high school students had not eaten the recommended five servings of fruit and vegetables per day. The same study found 34 percent of students had consumed soda pop at least once a day.