|
 Obesity
is a serious health concern for children and adolescents. Data
from NHANES surveys (1976–1980 and 2003–2006) show that the
prevalence of obesity has increased: for children aged 2–5
years, prevalence increased from 5.0% to 12.4%; for those aged
6–11 years, prevalence increased from 6.5% to 17.0%; and for
those aged 12–19 years, prevalence increased from 5.0% to 17.6%.1,
8
Obese children
and adolescents are at risk for health problems during their
youth and as adults. For example, during their youth, obese
children and adolescents are more likely to have risk factors
associated with cardiovascular disease (such as high blood
pressure, high cholesterol, and Type 2 diabetes) than are other
children and adolescents.2
Obese children
and adolescents are more likely to become obese as adults.3,
4 For example, one study found that approximately 80% of
children who were overweight at aged 10–15 years were obese
adults at age 25 years.3 Another study found that 25%
of obese adults were overweight as children.5 The
latter study also found that if overweight begins before 8 years
of age, obesity in adulthood is likely to be more severe.
This Web site
provides information about childhood overweight and obesity,
including how overweight and obesity are defined for children,
the prevalence of obesity, the factors associated with obesity,
and the related health consequences.
Tips for Parents
What can you do as a parent or guardian to help prevent
childhood obesity?
Click here for some ideas.
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