Obese children are at higher risk of becoming obese adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During childhood, obese children are also more likely to have risk factors that are associated with cardiovascular disease. Obesity in small children is a serious condition that should be addressed immediately by parents and health care providers, since it can have many health-related consequences.
Diagnosis
The National Guideline Clearinghouse states that a child is overweight if his body mass index (BMI) is in the 85th percentile but less than the 95th percentile for his age and sex, and obese if at least in the 95th percentile. A diagnosis of obesity is made by using the BMI, which is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared, and the CDC-derived normative percentiles.
Current Trends
Obesity in children has doubled in the past two decades, according to American Academy of Pediatrics. Black non-Hispanic girls and Mexican American girls are more likely to have a higher BMI for age than non-Hispanic white girls. Mexican American boys are more likely to have a higher BMI for their age than non-Hispanic white boys.
Risks
Psychological risks are of importance when dealing with obesity in small children. The CDC states that obese children can be socially stigmatized, and it can lead to low self-esteem, hindering social and academic functioning. Obese children are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Also, type 2 diabetes has begun to emerge as a health-related problem in obese children, eventually leading to complications such as kidney failure and cardiovascular disease.
Prevention
Help your child maintain a healthy weight by balancing his intake of calories, providing fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat or nonfat dairy products and lean proteins. Limit sugar and saturated fats, and make sure he drinks plenty of water during the day. Find ways to make favorite dishes healthier and replace high-calorie, high-fat snacks with a piece of fresh fruit or some vegetables.
Keep your child active, and make sure he gets enough physical activity, avoiding too much sedentary time. The CDC states that physical activity in children strengthens bones, increases self-esteem, decreases blood pressure and helps with weight management. Children should take part in at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per day such as brisk walking, jumping rope, swimming, dancing, playing tag or playing soccer. Limit your child to no more than 2 hours per day of television, computer, or video games per day to reduce sedentary time.
Aggressive Treatment
If children are in the 99th percentile or higher and have excessive health-related problems, and a structured weight-loss program and lifestyle intervention are not effective in weight-loss, the obese child may need additional therapies. Meal replacement, drug therapy and possibly bariatric surgery may be an option in severe cases.
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