Author: Sothern MS and Gordon ST
Source: Clinical Pediatrics 2003; 42:101-111.
Childhood obesity has become one of the most critical medical problems facing health professionals and families today. It is estimated that one in five children are now overweight. In some racial-ethnic groups, more than 30% of children are considered overweight. This contributes to not only early development of many diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, but also has a remarkable financial price and, more importantly, a social cost on the self-esteem and confidence of young children.
The authors provide an excellent review of the current medical literature on obesity in childhood. They review research studies that examine the causes of childhood obesity, the role of diet and physical activity on the development and treatment of obesity and most importantly, how to help prevent childhood obesity.
It has been suggested by some researchers that there are three ?critical? times for obesity to develop. The first is in infancy, the second during ages 5-7, and the third during adolescence. The authors point out that many eating and exercise habits are developed during these three periods in life, and more effort should be placed on educating parents on how to prevent obesity during routine medical visits. The article provides some helpful tips for medical professionals to share with families about healthy nutrition and offers ideas to encourage physical activity in young children.
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