The Effects Of Childhood Obesity Can Be Traumatic
January 13, 2008Obesity in children is a very serious issue. The effects of childhood obesity can have health and social consequences that continue into adulthood. Prevention programs and understanding the treatment for youngsters is extremely important in controlling this obesity epidemic. Parents are very concerned about their children’s weight and how it affects them in with their peers and in society. They are looking for specific answers for the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. The effects of childhood obesity range from major psychological problems to serious health issues and chronic social problems.
Health Issues
First and foremost are the effects of childhood obesity that plays in the health of a child. Hypertension and diabetes are two of the most prevalent diseases which are direct results of childhood obesity. These health problems continue into adulthood and the results are astounding. The quality of life is another adverse effect of childhood obesity. These children cannot join into sports programs or even play certain games with their friends. This is a lasting psychological effect of childhood obesity. These children grow into adults with very low self-esteem which leads to depression and most often suicide. If children do not get adequate nutritional and exercise guidelines at a young age they will have a very hard time grasping the concept as an adult. The old saying that fat babies make fat adults is coming true.
Most schools have eliminated P.E. in their curriculum which has helped with the onset of childhood obesity. Exercise is a very important aspect to children’s health. Parents are starting to rebel and demand that their school districts reinstate P.E. into the daily school regimen. Obesity is more common in girls, but more noticeable in boys. Fat deposits are located in far less areas of the exterior of the male body than the female body, therefore, it becomes larger in a much shorter period of time, in a limited number of places. Boys become fatter in the stomach, back and chest and may even grow small breasts. Other slimmer boys are very cruel to the fat boys, which results in all kinds of psychological problems. Obesity in children is becoming an epidemic and a cure needs to be found. Whether it is chemical answer or strict daily nutrition and exercise, the family and school need to come to the forefront of the fight against the effects of childhood obesity. This is a disease that children do not need to be faced with. They need to be playing with their friends and learning how to become productive individuals. Childhood obesity needs to become a disease of the past.
Topic Links:
Obesity and Prevention 
Leave a comment