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Childhood Obesity: The Health Issue

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The Role of Parents in Preventing Child Obesity

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Actions Needed to Prevent Childhood Obesity in The USA

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Childhood obesity is a condition where excess body fat negatively affects a child's health or well-being.

Childhood obesity can be brought on by a range of factors which often act in combination. "Obesogenic environment" is the medical term set aside for this mixture of elements. The greatest risk factor for child obesity is the obesity of both parents. This may be reflected by the family's environment and genetics. Other reasons may also be due to psychological factors and the child's body type.

The first problems to occur in obese children are usually emotional or psychological. However it can also lead to life-threatening conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep problems, cancer, and other disorders. Some of the other disorders would include liver disease, early puberty or menarche, eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, skin infections, and asthma and other respiratory problems.

Black and Latino youths have substantially higher rates of overweight and obesity than do their White peers. An overweight adolescent has a 70 percent chance of becoming an overweight or obese adult. Since 1980, the obesity prevalence among children and adolescents has almost tripled. Children with obesity have three times more healthcare expenditures than children at healthy weights, costing an estimated $14 billion every year.

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• Articles About Childhood Obesity Words: 874
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Childhood Obesity: Causes and Effects

Introduction, feasible solution, concluding thoughts.

It is impossible to deny that good health is one of the most significant phenomena for people. When some health issues affect an individual, he or she suffers from compromised well-being, denoting that it is impossible to live fully-fledged lives. That is why it is of importance for people to take care of their health, and one should draw attention to this activity as early as possible. The rationale behind this statement is that problems that develop during childhood are more likely to result in adverse consequences in the future. This description refers to childhood obesity, which is a dangerous and widespread phenomenon. According to the World Health Organization (2021), this term stands for “an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health” (para. 2). Body mass index (BMI) is typically measured to assess whether a young individual has weight issues. In particular, children of 5-19 years old are considered having obesity if their weight is higher than two standard deviations above the accepted average value (World Health Organization, 2021). This explanation and the statistical value above ensure that the problem is severe and requires specific attention.

Simultaneously, additional statistical data proves that the issue is widespread. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2022), 19.7% (14.7 million) of children and adolescents in the USA suffered from the issue in 2017-2020. This statistical value demonstrates that it is impossible to overestimate the need to prevent the problem. Thus, childhood obesity has many causes and effects, which denotes that parents and teachers should make children with obesity engage in regular physical exercise in school and at home to solve the problem.

A comprehensive approach should be utilized to determine what causes lead to childhood obesity. According to a scholarly and peer-reviewed article by Deal et al. (2020), there are many risk factors, and one can classify them into three groups based on the periods when they occur. These are prenatal, neonatal and infancy, as well as childhood and adolescence stages. Firstly, a child can be subject to obesity for a number of reasons, including parents’ obesity, exposure to antibiotics, maternal smoking, and diabetes (Deal et al., 2020). This information demonstrates that children’s health is formed until they have come into being.

Secondly, the first months of life can also contribute to the problem under analysis. Weight gain can occur if birth weight is over four kilograms, antibiotics are used for a long period, or a diet is full of added sugars (Deal et al., 2020). Thirdly, it is reasonable to consider the processes during childhood and adolescence since they can be impactful. In particular, these causes can be social, physical, and nutritional. Among social factors, poverty is the most influential one because it stipulates that children live in physically and emotionally disadvantaged conditions that promote obesity (Deal et al., 2020). Additional causes are more specific and include food insecurity and family stressors. As for physical factors, it is challenging to determine which one is the most impactful. This statement denotes that high screen time, poor sleep, and insufficient exercise contribute to the spread of the problem (Deal et al., 2020). Finally, an excessive intake of fat and sugar is a significant nutritional cause (Deal et al., 2020). This information reveals that many processes and phenomena result in the fact that a child suffers from excessive weight.

In addition to that, I can incorporate a few examples from my experience that prove the statements above. I know a guy who has not engaged in any sports activity during his life. Now, he suffers from being overweight and tries to solve the issue. Another example refers to my neighbors who gave birth to their daughter a few years ago. The family is in compromised economic conditions, which denotes that they do not have sufficient money to follow healthy diets. This scenario results in the fact that their child started gaining weight and currently suffers from the problem.

Other scholars utilize a narrower approach to find a cause of childhood obesity. In particular, Han et al. (2020) conducted a scientific study to determine whether proximity to fast food could lead to childhood obesity. According to the authors, they have found credible evidence demonstrating that obesity rates were higher among those children who lived closer to fast food locations (Han et al., 2020). Some critics can state that this suggestion is not appropriate because fast food restaurants are widespread almost in every state, but it is challenging to argue with facts. This finding is significant because it demonstrates that environmental factors can be critical in causing the problem under analysis. The authors stipulate that children tend to attend such locations on their way home from school. It is not reasonable to underestimate this evidence because it reveals that fast-food chains and various franchises are harmful to children and, therefore, dangerous for the future of the entire nation.

The information above has represented different approaches to defining the causes of childhood obesity. On the one hand, Deal et al. (2020) relied on a comprehensive analysis and identified multiple risk factors that contribute to the problem collectively. On the other hand, Han et al. (2020) stated that a single aspect could be a significant cause. Even though the study by Han et al. (2020) offered valuable and credible conclusions, it seems that a comprehensive approach is more appropriate. Childhood obesity is a complicated problem, and it is challenging to believe that limiting children’s access to fast-food restaurants can completely solve the issue. This strategy can reduce the prevalence, but harmful food can come from other sources. That is why it is challenging to deny that many essential aspects contribute to the spread of childhood obesity.

Since a significant part of the US population suffers from the health issue under review, it is reasonable to look at what effects it brings. The focus on potential consequences is needed because it can demonstrate whether urgent responses are required to protect people. As for childhood obesity, it is possible to divide its effects into two groups. They are physical and psychological causes, and each of the groups should receive sufficient attention.

On the one hand, physical consequences are more evident and straightforward. Since an organism is forced to deal with excessive weight, some of its processes witness additional challenges that lead to specific problems. According to Deal et al. (2020), adverse effects impact neurological, pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal, endocrine, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems performance. Thus, specific consequences are versatile, and they include hypertension, coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, asthma, orthopedic disorders, stroke, and certain cancers (Deal et al., 2020). This information demonstrates that it is impossible to underestimate the role that obesity plays for every child who deals with it. Since many systems are impacted negatively, children with an excessive weight typically request medical services more often. This state of affairs results in a higher financial burden for their parents. Moreover, Deal et al. (2020) indicate that childhood obesity can result in health issues that will finally lead to adult mortality. Thus, various scholars and healthcare professionals highlight the danger of physical consequences that can be brought by the issue under analysis.

On the other hand, childhood obesity can result in psychological or mental consequences. The given condition makes children understand that they are different from others and limits their abilities. For example, it is not a rare occasion when children with obesity have difficulties finding friends. That is why it is not surprising that many mental health issues arise as consequences. In particular, they are depression, stress, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and poor health (Chu et al., 2019). It is impossible to deny that these conditions harmfully impact young individuals and their development. If a child deals with depression at school, it is likely that this person will be subject to harmful effects of the same mental condition being an adult. In fact, many psychological problems find their origin in childhood, which justifies the fact that many scholars draw their attention to these phenomena. Children with obesity are suitable subjects for such studies because these individuals are subject to various harmful effects.

Simultaneously, examples from my life can help understand why the issue is a big problem. I know a few children with this condition, and all of them feel depressed and isolated. As for adults, they can also experience some difficulties having romantic relationships. Among people with obesity whom I know, each individual has other health problems that have emerged because of their extra weight. That is why it is impossible to underestimate the negative effects of the phenomenon.

This information demonstrates that childhood obesity is associated with multiple adverse consequences. Since the problem is associated with excessive weight, it is not surprising that significant physical health problems are prevalent. Obesity creates many difficulties, meaning that people and their organisms are forced to spend more energy dealing with this body condition. That is why it is not a rare case that children with obesity are subject to multiple comorbidities. Simultaneously, it is not reasonable to ignore subtle consequences that refer to psychological issues. Mental health problems are also important because they can significantly affect children’s development. Depression, anxiety, difficulties finding friends, and even social isolation are sometimes closely linked to childhood obesity. It is now impossible to state which group of effects is more significant or harmful because all of them negatively affect children and their well-being. The impact even becomes higher when multiple issues influence a single child.

The information above demonstrates that a timely and appropriate response is required. Since the selected problem affects many children, various stakeholders should find a solution to the issue. Thus, parents, teachers, and other involved individuals should join efforts to determine what specific intervention can protect children’s health. According to the available scientific data, subjecting young individuals to regular physical exercises can be considered a feasible solution.

One should admit that it is possible to use different methods to implement the suggested intervention, and school-based exercises seem a suitable option since children and adolescents spend much time at school. Consequently, they can use it profitably and engage in the sports activity. Duncombe et al. (2022) have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) programs in combating childhood obesity. That is why the researchers have located and analyzed 54 credible studies that, in turn, focused on the impact of physical exercise on various health outcomes. In particular, Duncombe et al. (2022) have focused on the effects of running, cycling, jumping, throwing, and other activities and identified that they contributed to various improved consequences. In particular, they are reduced waist circumference, body fat percentage, and body mass index (Duncombe et al., 2022). Teachers should be actively involved in this intervention, meaning that physical education lesson plans should be changed to ensure that children with obesity are engaged in those activities that can address their condition.

This intervention should be implemented at a state level, which denotes that state health departments should develop exercise guidelines for schools. These recommendations should specify what exercises are appropriate for children based on their abilities. Thus, teachers can rely on these guidelines to ensure that the suggested interventions are suitable for children and provide the latter with positive impacts that can lead to losing weight.

Simultaneously, schools are not the only environments that are suitable to address the problem under analysis. Children and adolescents also spend much time at home with their parents, and it is reasonable to ensure that the latter participate in addressing the problem. According to Bülbül (2020), it is useful to subject children with obesity to various exercise types, including aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening, bone strengthening, and extension. Specific exercises include running, cycling, weightlifting, walking, team sports, and gymnastics (Bülbül, 2020). Since these activities do not require specific skills and specialized equipment, young individuals can easily do them at home or outdoors.

The only requirement is that children should allocate 20-60 minutes a few times a week to exercise regularly. However, one should state separately that young individuals are unlikely to engage in systematic exercises because they do not have sufficient motivation. That is why parents should control their children and ensure that they practice regularly. This statement denotes that state health departments should create exercise plans and distribute them among teachers and parents. In this case, adults will join their efforts to help children lose weight. Consequently, the responsibility is placed on adults since they should better understand the importance of this intervention and deliver this information to their sons and daughters.

The identified evidence demonstrates that there are many interventions that can help reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity. On the one hand, school-based responses are effective because children and adolescents spend much time in these establishments. That is why physical education lessons should be restructured to ensure that students with the given condition engage in appropriate activities that help them lose weight. On the other hand, home-based interventions are also required to solve the problem. Parents are expected to make their children participate in regular exercises at home and outdoors. However, one cannot state which approach is the most effective. That is why it could be better to ensure that a versatile approach is utilized, meaning that home and school-based interventions are used simultaneously. As has been mentioned, specific exercise plans will provide these adults with recommendations on how they can make reasonable contributions to solving the problem. It is possible to expect that if children engage in physical exercise in school and at home, better outcomes can be reached.

The report has comprehensively analyzed the issue of childhood obesity and made a few reasonable conclusions based on scientific evidence. It has been found that versatile behaviors and conditions can be considered contributing factors, while the condition leads to multiple adverse effects. Thus, the paper has devoted a sufficient section of the paper to discussing a feasible solution. According to the available literature, a suitable and effective option is to make children with obesity involved in regular physical exercise. This intervention requires the efforts of many stakeholders, including parents and school teachers, because it can be implemented in school and home-based environments. In practice, such interventions can be practiced in physical education lessons, at home, and outdoors. Suitable activities include cycling, running, jumping, team sports, walking, and weightlifting. It is challenging to state which approach or which activity is the most effective. That is why a reasonable strategy is to solve the problem comprehensively.

Bülbül S. (2020). Exercise in the treatment of childhood obesity . Turk Pediatri Arsivi , 55 (1), 2-10.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Childhood obesity facts . 

Chu, D. T., Nguyet, N. T. M., Nga, V. T., Lien, N. V. T., Vo, D. D., Lien, N., Ngoc, V. T. N., Son, L. H., Le., D.-H., Nga, V. B., Tu, P. V., To, T. V., Ha., L. S., Tao, Y., & Pham, V. H. (2019). An update on obesity: Mental consequences and psychological interventions. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 13 (1), 155-160.

Deal, B. J., Huffman, M. D., Binns, H., & Stone, N. J. (2020). Perspective: Childhood obesity requires new strategies for prevention. Advances in Nutrition, 11 (5), 1071-1078.

Duncombe, S. L., Barker, A. R., Bond, B., Earle, R., Varley-Campbell, J., Vlachopoulos, D., Walker, J. L., Weston, K. L., & Stylianou, M. (2022). School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PloS ONE , 17 (5), e0266427.

Han, J., Schwartz, A. E., & Elbel, B. (2020). Does proximity to fast food cause childhood obesity? Evidence from public housing . Regional Science and Urban Economics, 84 , 103565.

World Health Organization. (2021). Obesity and overweight .

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StudyCorgi. (2023, July 19). Childhood Obesity: Causes and Effects. https://studycorgi.com/childhood-obesity-causes-and-effects-essay-examples/

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Problems and Solutions of Child Obesity Research Paper

1. Introduction Childhood obesity is a growing and serious health problem. The rate of childhood obesity is increasing in the world. It is reported that in the UK around 33.7% of boys and 32.5% of the girls under the age of 20 are overweight or obese. It is a condition of excessive body fat which could lead to chronic diseases. According to the American Heart Association, 15% of children between the ages of 6 and 19 in the United States are obese. There are many reasons for childhood obesity, f ...

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Childhood Obesity: Factors and Effects Essay

Introduction, aetiology of obesity, consequences of obesity, works cited.

Childhood obesity is considered as one of the top ten global health issues, due to the fact that childhood obesity prevalence is on a dramatic increase. Basically, the short-term problems of childhood obesity include respiratory morbidities and elevated cardiovascular risk factors.

According to the World Health Organization, obesity is defined as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health” (WHO, Para. 1). Hills, King and Byrne are on the view that the World Health Organization define overweight adults as having a body mass index (BMI) of 25kg/m2 or more and obese adults as having a body mass index of 30kg/m2 or more (Hills, King, and Byrne 11).

Although there is less research on long-term health consequences of childhood obesity, evidence has shown that abnormalities attained at childhood level result in cardiovascular consequences at the on-set of adult obesity. In summation of the researches conducted, it has been found that over weight adolescents and children have a likelihood of attaining several heart disease risk factors and adult morbidities e.g. cardiovascular diseases (Hills, King, and Byrne 20). Nevertheless, obese children often suffer from diseases and develop depression.

Factors like diet, physical activity, and metabolic status are some of the major environmental factors that contribute to obesity, which are said to be a genetic trait influence (Hills, King, and Byrne 2).

Diet: High fat and refined foods have been identified as major contributors to the obesity condition. In North America and Europe, it has been noted that fat and simple sugars account for more than half consumption and energy intake of refined grain that has replaced whole grains (Hills, King, and Byrne 2).

Physical activity: physical activity among the youth has notably decline in recent decades. In addition, it is suggested that corresponding prevalence increase in obesity is the direct result of decline in physical activity (Hills, King, and Byrne 2).

Depression: Evidence has shown that obesity is linked to mood disorders, low-self esteem, and depression in children. However, this relation is neither simple nor consistent due to variations noted in age, family context, gender, and duration of obesity (Davies, Fitzgerald, and Mousouli 73).

It is believed that obese children undergo social stigmatization caused by their body weight, leading to the children being dissatisfied with the image of their body hence causing depression and low self-esteem (Davies, Fitzgerald, and Mousouli 74).

According to Martin, Volkmar, and Lewis (608), depressive symptoms have been noted in later childhood obesity. In spite of results and design of these studies differing, the linkage findings on depression to subsequent weight increase are consistent. Moreover, causality has been implied by the fact that the length of time o0f depression between the adulthood and childhood is a predictor of body mass index. It has also been found that the high rates of obesity can be reduced by treatment of depression in children successfully (Martin, Volkmar, and Lewis 608).

Development of diseases: Obesity documentation shows that some of the diseases that one is likely to attain because of obesity are hypertension, dyslipidaemia, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. In addition, short-term consequences related to childhood obesity include respiratory morbidities and cardiovascular risk factors. These cardiovascular risk factors that characterize obesity at adulthood are due to abnormalities at childhood. Moreover, studies have also indicated that obese children have a high risk of getting various coronary heart disease risk factors and different comorbidities (Hills, King, and Byrne 20).

Obesity is a health problem that has been categorized as a top 10-health issue by the world health organization. The obesity condition has been noted to be rapidly increasing globally at high rates, with eating habits, metabolic status, and physical activity being some of the causes that contribute to obesity. Moreover, an obese child can be assisted by successfully tackling issues like depression that an obese child has.

Davie Dale and Fitzgerald Hiram, Mousouli Vasiliki. Obesityin childhood and adolescent: Understanding development and prevention. British library. 2008. Web.

Hills Andrew, King Neil and Byrne M. Nuala. Children, obesity and exercise: prevention treatment and management of childhood adolescent obesity . NY, Routledge. 2007. Web.

Martin, Andres, Volkmar, Fred and Lewis Melvin. Lewis’s child and adolescent psychiatry: a comprehensive textbook . PA, pine tree composition. 2007. Web.

WHO. “ Obesity. ” Obesity . 2010. Web.

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Essay on Childhood Obesity

Students are often asked to write an essay on Childhood Obesity in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Childhood Obesity

What is childhood obesity.

Childhood obesity means that a child is much heavier than they should be for their age and height. This happens when kids eat more food than their bodies need for growth and daily activities. Their bodies store the extra food as fat.

Causes of Obesity in Kids

Kids can become overweight for many reasons. They might eat too much junk food or not get enough exercise. Sometimes, their families have habits that lead to gaining weight, like eating out often.

Problems from Being Overweight

When kids are too heavy, they can have health problems like diabetes and heart trouble. They may also feel sad if other children tease them about their size.

Preventing Childhood Obesity

To stop obesity, children can eat healthier foods and stay active. Parents can help by cooking nutritious meals and doing fun physical activities as a family. Schools can also support by offering healthy lunches and regular exercise.

250 Words Essay on Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is when a child has much more body fat than is healthy or normal. It’s a serious issue that can lead to health problems. Kids with too much weight might find it hard to play or do sports, feel tired quickly, or have trouble with their health as they grow up.

Why Does It Happen?

Kids become overweight for different reasons. Eating food that has a lot of sugar or fat and not being active are big reasons. Sometimes, it’s because the body doesn’t use energy correctly. Also, if a family has a history of being overweight, the kids might be affected too.

Health Problems

Being too heavy can cause problems for kids, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart issues. It can also make them feel bad about themselves and hurt their feelings.

What Can Be Done?

To fix this problem, kids should eat healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains. They should also play and move around a lot to use up energy. Parents and schools can help by providing healthy meals and making sure kids have time and space to be active.

Working Together

Everyone needs to work together to help kids stay at a good weight. Parents, schools, and even the kids themselves can make choices that lead to a healthier life. It’s important to start these good habits early so kids can grow up strong and healthy.

500 Words Essay on Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is when a child has a lot more body fat than is healthy for their height and age. It’s like carrying extra weight that can cause problems for their body. This is not just about looks; it’s about health. If a child is much heavier than they should be, they might have a higher chance of getting sick now and when they grow up.

Why Do Kids Become Obese?

There are many reasons why a child might become obese. One big reason is eating too much food that is not good for them, like chips, candy, and fast food. These foods have a lot of calories, which is like fuel for the body. But if the body gets more fuel than it needs, it stores it as fat. Another reason is not moving enough. Playing video games or watching TV for a long time means kids are not running, jumping, or playing sports, which helps burn off the extra fuel.

Sometimes, it’s not just because of what kids eat or do. Their families might not know what foods are healthy or they might live in a place where it’s hard to play outside. Also, some kids’ bodies make it easier for them to gain weight because of their genes, which are like instructions passed down from their parents.

Health Problems from Obesity

Being obese can lead to health problems, some of which are serious. Kids might get diabetes, which is when their blood sugar is too high. They can have trouble with their heart and breathing. Their bones and joints might hurt because of the extra weight. They could also feel sad or get bullied because they look different, which is not fair or nice.

The good news is that obesity can be stopped and even reversed. Eating healthy is a start. This means more fruits, vegetables, and foods that don’t have a lot of sugar or fat. Drinking water instead of soda can also help. Kids should also be active for at least an hour every day. This could be playing a sport, dancing, or even walking to school.

Parents and caregivers can help by setting a good example. If they eat well and exercise, kids are more likely to do the same. Schools can help by teaching kids about healthy foods and making sure they have time to play and move around during the day.

Everyone Has a Role to Play

Fighting childhood obesity is not just up to the kids. Parents, teachers, and even the government can help make it easier to be healthy. This could mean making sure there are parks to play in, keeping junk food out of schools, and helping families learn about good nutrition.

To wrap it up, childhood obesity is a big problem, but it’s one that we can solve. By understanding what causes it, the health risks, and how to prevent it, everyone can work together to help kids grow up healthy and strong. It’s about making good choices every day and supporting each other in being the healthiest we can be.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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