The percentage of obese children in the United States has tripled since 1980, subjecting more children to substantial weight-related health risks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Inactive lifestyles and easy access to high-sugar, high-fat foods are partly to blame. Consequences go beyond physical health issues to affect children psychologically and socially.
Statistics
Obesity statistics for 2 to 19 year olds stands at 17 percent, according to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. As of 2008, the prevalence of obesity in children ages 2 to 5 was an estimated 10.4 percent, whereas 19.6 percent of 6 to 11 year olds were obese. The obesity statistic for adolescents 12 to 19 years of age was even higher, at 18.1 percent, according to the CDC.
Significance
Obesity in childhood increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, as well as other weight-related illnesses. The CDC reports a 70 percent prevalence of at least one risk factor for heart disease in obese children 5 to 17 years of age. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Other possible health consequences of childhood obesity include osteoarthritis, gall bladder disease, liver disease, sleep apnea and stroke.
Measurement
The body mass index for children and teens assesses weight status based on age, sex, height and current weight. Weight status for children and teens up to age 19 is interpreted using percentiles that consider body mass index scores, age and sex. A BMI score in the fifth to 85th percentile indicates a healthy weight, whereas a score in the 85th to 95th percentile points to an overweight status. Scores in the 95th or higher percentile indicate obesity.
Response
If your child's weight falls in the obese category, work with your pediatrician or family doctor to develop a diet and exercise program that meets your child's health needs. The goal is to help your child avoid weight gain as he grows taller, eventually achieving a healthy weight. For children older than 7, the general recommendation is gradual weight loss that incorporates a healthy eating plan and increased physical activity.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Overweight and Obesity
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Obesity
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About BMI for Children and Teens
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: BMI Percentile Calculator for Child and Teen
- Mayo Clinic: Childhood Obesity: Treatment and Drugs
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Obesity
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