Childhood Obesity Consequences

Unknown 7/03/2016

Childhood obesity is a complex health issue. It occurs when a child is well above the normal or healthy weight for his or her age and height. The main causes of excess weight in youth are similar to those in adults, including individual causes such as behavior and genetics. Behaviors can include dietary patterns, physical activity, inactivity, medication use, and other exposures. Additional contributing factors in our society include the food and physical activity environment, education and skills, and food marketing and promotion.

Consequences of obesity

Health risks now

Obesity during childhood can have a harmful effect on the body in a variety of ways. Children who are obese have a greater risk of –
High blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In one study, 70% of obese children had at least one CVD risk factor, and 39% had two or more.
Increased risk of impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Breathing problems, such as sleep apnea, and asthma.
Joint problems and musculoskeletal discomfort.
Fatty liver disease, gallstones, and gastro-esophageal reflux (i.e., heartburn).
Psychological stress such as depression, behavioral problems, and issues in school.
Low self-esteem and low self-reported quality of life.
Impaired social, physical, and emotional functioning.

Health risks later

Children who are obese are more likely to become obese adults. Adult obesity is associated with a number of serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cancer.
If children are obese, obesity and disease risk factors in adulthood are likely to be more severe

Credit: https://www.cdc.gov/obesity

Author Notes: I have just read this new this morning and I think Obesity is not only a problem for adult but also for children. "Prevention is better than cure". So to prepare a better future for our child we should change our habit from now. To be a good example for them, to guide them, we have to take a good care of ourself. Change your diet, exercise more and teach your child about how to select healthy food. That's when OBESITY can not harm us anymore.