Childhood
obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st
century. The problem is global and is steadily affecting many low- and
middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. The prevalence has
increased at an
obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st
century. The problem is global and is steadily affecting many low- and
middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. The prevalence has
increased at an
alarming rate. Globally, in 2010 the number of overweight
children under the age of five is estimated to be over 42 million. Close to 35
million of these are living in developing countries. (Kopelman,
2005).
According
to Anderson & Butcher (2006), childhood
obesity is a serious medical condition that affects children and adolescents.
It occurs when a child is well above the normal weight for his or her age and
height.
to Anderson & Butcher (2006), childhood
obesity is a serious medical condition that affects children and adolescents.
It occurs when a child is well above the normal weight for his or her age and
height.
Childhood
obesity is particularly troubling because the extra pounds often start children
on the path to health problems that were once confined to adults, such as
diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Childhood obesity can also
lead to poor self-esteem and depression.
obesity is particularly troubling because the extra pounds often start children
on the path to health problems that were once confined to adults, such as
diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Childhood obesity can also
lead to poor self-esteem and depression.
References
Anderson, P. M. & Butcher, K. F. (2006). Childhood Obesity: Trends and Potential Cause. The
Role of Schools in Obesity Prevention. The Future of Children, 16(1), 19-45.
Role of Schools in Obesity Prevention. The Future of Children, 16(1), 19-45.
Kopelman, P. G (2005). Clinical
obesity in adults and children: In Adults and Children. Blackwell Publishing.
p. 493.
obesity in adults and children: In Adults and Children. Blackwell Publishing.
p. 493.