• Childhood obesity more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years
• Age 6-11 years: obesity increased from 7% in 1980 to 18% in 2012
• Age 12-19 years: obesity increased from 5% in 1980 to 21% in 2012
• In 2012, more than 1/3 of children and adolescents were overweight or obese

Overweight and obesity: abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that impairs health

BMI (Body mass index): a reasonable indicator of body fatness for most children and teens

Overweight: BMI at or above the 85% and lower than the 95% for children of the same age and sex

Obesity: BMI at or above the 95% for children of the same age and sex

CONSEQUENCES OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY

• Cardiovascular disease
• Increased risk for Type 2 diabetes
• Breathing problems
• Joint problems
• Fatty liver disease
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Greater risk of social and psychological problems
• Obese children are more likely to become obese adults. Adult obesity increases risk for heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO OBESITY

• Excess caloric intake
• Sugar-sweetened beverages
• Frequent snacking
• Larger portions
• Higher calorie density of foods
• More meals consumed or purchased away from home
• Advertising that promotes unhealthy food consumption
• Value-sizing of less nutritious foods

INADEQUATE AMOUNTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

• Labor saving technological advances, ie. computers
• Increased screen time and media use; ie. TV, video games
• Relying on motorized transportation
• Limited access to safe, convenient recreation facilities or walking areas
• Limited opportunities for physical activities during workday
• Limited daily fitness activities in schools

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO OBESITY

• Obesity is NOT being viewed as a medical problem
• Knowledge
• Time
• Access
• Finances
• Environment
• Motivation

IMPORTANT FACTORS TO CONSIDER IN OBESITY PREVENTION

• Healthy eating and physical activity
• Diet and physical activity of children/adolescents are influenced by many sectors of society
• Families
• Communities
• Schools and childcare settings
• Faith-based institutions
• Government agencies
• The Media
• Food and Beverage Industry
• Entertainment Industry

SOURCES: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention & Food Research & Action Center