Childhood obesity

Childhood obesity is a widespread issue, particularly in the United States, where one in five children are considered obese and one in three are considered overweight.

Percentile BMI

The definition of obesity in children is measured using a percentile score of body mass index (BMI).

CDC definition

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) considers a child to be overweight if their BMI is at or above the 85th percentile and less than the 95th percentile for their age and sex, and considers them obese if their BMI is at or above the 95th percentile.

Causes

The causes of childhood obesity are complex and can include genetic factors, metabolism, hormonal factors, community and neighborhood design, short sleep duration, eating and physical activity behaviors, racial factors, and socioeconomic factors.

Consequences

There are several potential consequences of childhood obesity, including health problems and psychological issues. To prevent childhood obesity, it is important to address its underlying causes, such as lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits, and environmental factors.

Frequently asked questions

What causes childhood obesity? Childhood obesity is caused by a combination of factors including genetics, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits, hormonal imbalances, and environmental factors.
What are the effects of childhood obesity? Childhood obesity can lead to a number of health problems such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, as well as psychological issues such as low self-esteem and depression.
Where can I find childhood obesity related articles? You can find articles on childhood obesity by searching academic databases such as PubMed or Google Scholar, or by visiting the website of organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
What are the statistics for childhood obesity rates in the US? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five children in the United States are considered obese and one in three are considered overweight.
What are the medical causes of childhood obesity? Medical causes of childhood obesity can include hormonal imbalances such as insulin resistance, slow metabolism, and certain medications.
How can childhood obesity be prevented? Childhood obesity can be prevented through healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, reducing screen time, and creating supportive environments in schools and communities.
How is childhood obesity defined? In children, obesity is defined as having excess body fat and is measured using a percentile score of body mass index (BMI). According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a child is considered overweight if their BMI is at or above the 85th percentile and less than the 95th percentile for their age and sex, and considered obese if their BMI is at or above the 95th percentile.

How can W8MD help?

W8MD's weight loss, sleep, and medspa centers offer medical weight loss programs that address obesity in both adults and children. Their programs aim to help patients lose weight and keep it off, as well as improve their sleep and overall appearance.

Age of the child

W8MD accepts children from 8 years and up for weight loss

W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers

W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers is a network of medical centers located in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and surrounding areas that provide comprehensive care for weight loss, sleep disorders, and aesthetic treatments.