Philip A. Pappas, Ph.D.

There is a significant amount of data regarding obesity in America and none of it is reassuring. The data on children and obesity is even more alarming when considering the impact on the health care system in the next 20 years. The statistic also show that even if the weight is lost in adulthood, morbidity and mortality is still higher for those individuals. Obesity is rising in both genders, all ages, and all ethnic and income groups. In the last 25 years obesity in children has quadrupled (Ogden et al 2002). Childhood and in particularly adolescents obesity, is a key risk factor for adult obesity. Educating families in nutrition and exercise may be a way of helping stem the rising tide of chronic illness and early death in this at risk group.

What are the consequences of obese and overweight children face as adults. The health consequences include, heart disease, diabetes, breathing problems, osteoarthritis, and cancer. However, it may be the less obvious psychosocial problems that are the most devastating. Data shows that being overweight negatively affects relationships with family and friends. Overweight children have peers problems and face isolation, and decreased self-image (Kolody and Sallis 1995). Statistics show that overweight adolescents are less likely to attend elite colleges. They often earn less and suffer from depression more often than their normal weight peers.

A study by Gortmaker et al. (1993) overweight adolescent girls had the most difficulties as adults with relationships, careers, marriage, and depression. Obese adolescent females were significantly more likely to live in poverty than normal weight females. Could the news be any worse?

Yes it can. The illness rate for overweight adolescents was significantly higher in adulthood compared to the normal weight population. Furthermore, one out of three newly diagnosed type II diabetics are adolescents. Only two generation ago type II diabetes was commonly referred to as old age diabetes. The term old age diabetes no longer applies (Yensel et al. 2004).
So what is the cause or pathophysiology of overweight? Overweight results from an energy imbalance. When we eat more calories than we burn, we become overweight. The answer is simple, but the solution seems difficult. What can a parent do to help their child?

Parents needs to take an active role in the care of the overweight child. Recognizing the problem and finding help is key. Argas et al. (2004) determined that the number one risk factor for childhood obesity was parental overweight. Second was low parental concern. The solution can be found in health lifestyle changes for the whole family.

The problem needs to be addressed on several fronts. Quality nutrition, exercise, behavioral changes, stress management and family commitment to wellness are all necessary for success. A stress free family lifestyle is the most important factor in creating a healthy environment. Children can learn to control stress using simple pyshological (biofeedback) techniques that are easy to learn and can involve the whole family. Good nutrition, active lifstyle, and healthy stress levels lead to wellness and happiness.

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