UNIMONTES 2013/1

    Obesity in Children and Teens

[1] The problem of childhood obesity in the United States has grown considerably in recent years. Between 16

and 33 percent of children and adolescents are obese. Obesity is among the easiest medical conditions to

recognize but most difficult to treat. Unhealthy weight gain due to poor diet and lack of exercise is

responsible for over 300,000 deaths each year. The annual cost to society for obesity is estimated at nearly

[5] $100 billion. Overweight children are much more likely to become overweight adults unless they adopt and

maintain healthier patterns of eating and exercise.

What is obesity?

A few extra pounds does not suggest obesity. However they may indicate a tendency to gain weight easily

and a need for changes in diet and/or exercise. Generally, a child is not considered obese until the weight is

[10] at least 10 percent higher than what is recommended for their height and body type. Obesity most

commonly begins between the ages of 5 and 6, or during adolescence. Studies have shown that a child who

is obese between the ages of 10 and 13 has an 80 percent chance of becoming an obese adult.

What causes obesity?

The causes of obesity are complex and include genetic, biological, behavioral and cultural factors. Obesity

[15] occurs when a person eats more calories than the body burns up. If one parent is obese, there is a 50 percent

chance that their children will also be obese. However, when both parents are obese, their children have an

80 percent chance of being obese. Although certain medical disorders can cause obesity, less than 1 percent

of all obesity is caused by physical problems. Obesity in childhood and adolescence can be related to:

• poor eating habits

[20] • overeating or binging

• lack of exercise (i.e., couch potato kids)

• family history of obesity

• medical illnesses (endocrine, neurological problems)

• medications (steroids, some psychiatric medications)

[25] • stressful life events or changes (separations, divorce, moves, deaths, abuse)

• family and peer problems

• low self-esteem

• depression or other emotional problems

What are risks and complications of obesity?

[30] There are many risks and complications with obesity. Physical consequences include:

• increased risk of heart disease

• high blood pressure

• diabetes

• breathing problems

[35] • trouble sleeping

Child and adolescent obesity is also associated with increased risk of emotional problems. Teens with

weight problems tend to have much lower self-esteem and be less popular with their

peers. Depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder can also occur. […]

(Disponível em: http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/obesity_in_children_and_teens, acesso em: 21 ago. 2012.)