Prevalence of Child Obesity

Statistics show an alarming increase in the prevalence of child obesity in America today. The rate of obesity in children over the past 30 years has tripled, a very disturbing figure that should be given more serious attention. According to recent information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 17% of children between ages 2 to 19 were suffering from severe overweight problems. But we can still expect a much higher actual figure since most people in America tend to provide incorrect information regarding their weight and height in surveys conducted on a regular basis. Hence, the Harvard School of Public Health concluded that we are grossly underestimating the prevalence of child obesity in the United States. This health menace has reached to a very startling proportion and rapidly spins out of control.

The prevalence of child obesity can be due a several factors, including the child’s eating habits, physical activity, hormones, genetics and the environment. Children who are battling with weight issues are badly affected both physically and emotionally. They at not only at high risk for medical complications, but also suffer from very low self-esteem and often choose to isolate themselves from their peers.

The prevalence of child obesity is more than a food issue, because this becomes a vital life issue. The lifestyle, emotions and family dilemmas play a big role. A cohesive effort from every member of the family is needed in dealing with an overweight child. Unfortunately, a lot of parents are oblivious or unaware of the real risks of obesity and usually just shrug it off as cute baby fats. They have unwittingly perpetrated killing their children in a very deliberate fashion. A child health advocate have adamantly stated that child obesity should be considered a grave child abuse since adults are mainly responsible for their child’s diet.

Children with weight issues should be encouraged to engaged more in physical activities and cut down television viewing which only promotes a sedentary behavior. Parents should also rid their kitchens from junk foods and acts as role models by also faithfully monitoring their eating habits. Enrolling children in summer camps would also help them gain more confidence and participate in various exercises.

In any way you look at it, the well being of children solely relies on the parents. If you notice your child in danger of obesity, take some preventive and rehabilitative measures. Ignoring the problem and pretending it’s perfectly ok will only further aggravate it and put your child’s life in grave danger.