...Childhood obesity is a major concern for parents, teachers, and the medical community with differing philosophies and theories on causes and prevention. Inactivity, genetics, technology and parenting attitudes and beliefs are factors which contribute to childhood obesity. Peer pressure and social circles also create an epidemic of children overweight or obese. Intervention by parents, physicians and the educational system with support and nutrition with physical activity instruction can help create a culture of informed children. Childhood obesity is a major concern for parents, teachers and health care providers. Children will gain weight as they grow and develop. The problem presents when a child has extra pounds not needed for normal growth and development. Extra weight leads to obesity and particularly for a young child or adolescent can create serious medical conditions continuing into adulthood. Researching and determining particular and specific causes for childhood obesity can help in educating and motivating children and parents towards behavior changes to correct and prevent childhood obesity. Criteria for determining obesity in children rely on body mass index (BMI) in relation to overall weight, age, height and body structure. A BMI in children ages 6 to 19 years of age between the 85th and 94th percentiles is considered in the normal range, while anything over the 95th percentile is considered obese (Hampl and Summar, 2009). While there are many factors believed...
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...Poverty and Welfare on Childhood Obesity1 Poverty and Welfare on Childhood Obesity Paul D Stasiak Self Study Childhood obesity has become a growing concern in the eyes of many Americans, yet not every parent can identify if their child or one they care for is overweight. Understanding dietary intake for our children is a very important. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014), childhood obesity has more than doubled and young adult obesity has quadrupled in the last 30 years (p. 1). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define being overweight as having an excess body weight for a given height, specifically as having excess body fat. The number of obese children today is higher than it has been in the past. However, times are changing and the fast food companies are growing more and more popular each and every day. This paper will examine the research which states that a child is more likely to be obese as an adult if they were obese all throughout their adolescent years and poverty’s effect on childhood obesity. According to Feeding America (2013), 45.3 million Americans were living in poverty (p. 1). This number is very high considering the 318.9 million that are living in America. The unemployment rate in January of 2015 was 5.7%. As a result of unemployment or living in poverty conditions, some families have resorted to buying less expensive food options for their children in order to...
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...Cobabe June 29, 2011 Childhood obesity has become one of the most predominant health problems facing our nation today. Its prevalence in the United States is such that it is considered an epidemic that has a powerful, adverse impact on the well-being of our society. Childhood obesity affects all aspects of a child’s life; most significantly by contributing to poor health and negative social perceptions by society. Extensive research of this issue has identified numerous causal and risk factors associated with obesity. Given the multifaceted nature of the problem, and its severe implications for the future health and well-being of affected children, I believe that the most effective solutions will be achieved through programs that focus on prevention efforts. This thesis begins with a definition of the obesity epidemic, followed by a discussion of research into the multiple causal factors associated with childhood obesity. Particular emphasis is placed on prevention and intervention programs in the school environment, as many of the efforts to address childhood obesity have been school-based. This thesis also concludes the causes of obesity, environmental factors, biological, genetic, and dietary behaviors, the cost of obesity, and so much more. Recent studies and surveys provide clear evidence that children and adolescents are becoming overweight and, more significantly, obese at increasingly younger ages. Statistical evidence demonstrates that obesity has become a true epidemic...
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...Res/531 June 19, 2011 Dr. Ed Yancey Topic Childhood Obesity in the Mid-South is a growing disease. Description of Childhood Obesity Childhood Obesity is defined as children having the condition of being excessively overweight (The American Heritage, 2002). The Centers for Disease Control reports that this country has been struggling with obesity for well over 20 years now and regarding childhood obesity, it is no less daunting. Data from their surveys comparing the 1970's to the 2000's show that the prevalence of obesity has increased for children of all ages at least 3 times over to about 20% of our population less than 19 years old (adult obesity approaches almost 35% in some states). There is an eye-opening depiction of U.S. obesity trends by state and race/ethnicity over the past 4 years. Obesity appears to be most commonly seen in the African American, Hispanic, and Native American populations and in lower income families (CDC, 2009). Why this Topic This topic was chosen because there is an overwhelming increase of children who are suffering from this disease. Obese children are also more likely to become overweight adults. 70% of obese children had at least one Cardiovascular Disease risk factor, and 39% had two or more (Freedman, 2007). This paper will show why childhood obesity has become such an epidemic and what can be done to counter this disease. Description of Childhood Obesity Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition that affects...
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...Childhood Obesity in the United States of America Tolulope Adedokun Introduction to psychology Dr. Michael Gawrysiak November 28, 2014 Table of contents Abstract …………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 Causes of Obesity ………………………………………………………………………………… 4 Heredity …………………………………………………………………………………. 4 Social Environment ……………………………………………………………………… 5 Social Status …………………………………………………………………………….. 5 Birth Weight …………………………………………………………………………….. 6 Effects of Obesity ………………………………………………………………………………… 7 Health Effects ……………………………………………………………………………. 7 Mental Effects …………………………………………………………………………… 7 Conclusion ………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 Solutions to Childhood Obesity in The United States of America ………………………………. 8 References ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 Abstract Childhood obesity has reached epidemic levels in developing countries especially in the United States of America. Twenty five percent of children in the US are overweight and 11% are obese. Overweight and obesity in childhood are known to have significant impact on both physical and psychological health. This paper describes the causes, effects, and solutions to childhood obesity in...
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...Linking Factors to Childhood Obesity and Interventions: A Literature Review Dontonio Earls Colin University Abstract The prevalence of childhood obesity worldwide has created an immense concern in how to combat the chronic disease; however, researchers have found that there are fundamental risk factors that contribute to childhood obesity. Because of this immense concern, researchers have examined several risk factors that may be linked to the rising number of obesity among children. The literature reviewed has revealed that the contributions of the built environment have played negative role in providing support to children who are obese or overweight. The objective of this research was to examine the negative risk factors that may be correlated with childhood obesity. The results revealed that the effects of childhood obesity have emerged from different phases of life: (a) familial stress, (b) emotional-behavioral stress (c) self-esteem, (d) peer victimization, (e) eating-habits and influences, and (f) physical activities. In addition to examining the fundamental risk factors, interventions have been suggested and discussed in this paper. Keywords: childhood, obesity, parents, schools, physical activity, food, intervention Linking Factors to Childhood Obesity and Intervention: A Literature Review Overview. Today, childhood obesity has become a primary issue for public health worldwide. It has been well documented that over 23 million children in the United...
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...Childhood Obesity Shaleta Lathon PE 112-02 Saint Xavier University In Today’s society one in three American children are either overweight or obese, which is triple the rate it was in 1963 (American Heart Association, 2014). Childhood Obesity is not limited to the United States it is becoming more of a problem for every child all over the world. Childhood obesity is defined as having excess body fat, and being overweight means that having excess body weight from fat, muscle, bone water or a combination of these factors (CDC, 2013). A way to determine if a child is overweight is by using the body mass index chart. This chart can determine if a child is at an unhealthy weight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese (CDC, 2013). There are many health issues for those who are overweight or obese such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and more. There has been a lot of research conducted on childhood obesity from kindergarten to middle school, whether or not appetite is linked to obesity, and whether or not children should have bariatric surgery to remove the fat. Obesity is a major problem because it causes many health problems. Children that are overweight or obese are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure or high cholesterol (CDC, 2013). In a sample of obese children 70% hat at least one risk for cardiovascular disease (CDC, 2013). Children who suffer from obesity are also more likely to suffer from joint and bone problems (CDC, 2013). Being overweight...
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...Childhood Obesity SOSC 102 Professor November 7, 2014 Childhood Obesity Childhood obesity is a major, growing health issue in the United States. It is a condition where excess body fat negatively affects a child’s health or well-being. Children become overweight for a number of reasons. Some of the causes are genetic factors, lack of physical activity, eating unhealthy, medical illness, family and peer problems. Healthy eating and active living are major factors that can eliminate childhood obesity, or merely reduce the growing numbers that obviously exist in society today. “Over the past three decades, since the 1970s, the prevalence of childhood obesity has more than doubled for preschool children aged 2-5 years and adolescents aged 12-19 years, and it has more than tripled for children aged 6 to 11 years.” Ogden et al (as cited in Koplan, 2005, p. 22). Obese children in those age groups may suffer a lot of emotional or psychological stress. They can feel depressed and unhappy because of constant teasing from peers about being overweight. This could cause them to have low self-esteem and might hinder their ability to socialize with others effectively. Other negative effects, are that they develop behavioral problems, which in turn often negatively affects their academic growth. Active Generations is a promising obesity prevention program with emphasis on nutrition education. Students who participate in this program increase their understanding of the connection...
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...PREVENT CHILDHOOD OBESITY? Can Breastfeeding in the First Six Months Prevent Childhood Obesity? Introduction Childhood obesity is an issue that has baffled many in the United States and the United Kingdom. Various researchers such as Charlesworth (2013) assert that the trend has significantly increased since the 1960s, an issue that has necessitated further research on the subject .For instance, Akabas et al., (2012) assert that 14 to 16% of 5 years old and 17 to 19% of 19 years old are overweight. This has been necessitated by the fact that the older/obese a child becomes the likelihood that the child will become obese in adulthood (Charlesworth, 2013). Thus, considering this became a matter of global concern. Further, studies have been done to ascertain the probability of a child becoming obese if not breastfed in the first six months. For a thorough comprehension of the topic, it was concluded that it is necessary to explore issues such as defining overweight and obesity for children, genetic predisposition to weight and obesity, behaviours that affect childhood overweight and obesity. Also, how breastfeeding aids in curbing obesity and overweight in children and how the role of a mother and family in preventing obesity and overweight in children is also addressed. Finally, recommendations were made regarding how childhood obesity can be curbed. This paper researches whether breastfeeding can play a critical role in the first six months in curbing childhood obesity...
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...Children today are faced with many developmental challenges while growing up. In this paper we will discuss some of the issues facing children in the adolescent age group in relation to emotional, cognitive and biological development. Through an observation of children interacting in this age group I was able to observe a few of the issues we will discuss that effect children’s abilities to build peer relationships, succeed in school and live happy healthy lives. One of the first thing I noticed in my observations was the difficulties in peer relationships in this age group (Redmond, 2014). Peer relationships provide children with more than just fun playmates. These peer relationships help children develop social skills, such as how to communicate, cooperate, and solve problems. While a positive peer relationships promotes emotional wellbeing in children, the lack of peer relationships can be very problematic. Problems arise when children are rejected by peers or are simply ignored, or neglected. Through my research I have discovered numerous factors that contribute to problems in children's peer relationships such as social behavior, family problems and a lack of self-esteem. Social Behavior, is one problem encountered by children when trying to build peer relationships. Some children display aggressive or disruptive behavior, while others withdraw or shy away from peer relationships. Other children tend to encounter social rejection when they are perceived to be different...
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...Running Head: CHILDHOOD OBESITY 1 Childhood Obesity in America Zelda Rose ENG 122 Instructor Hanscom July 7, 2011 CHILDHOOD OBESITY 2 Childhood Obesity in America I have chosen the topic on childhood obesity because it is of interest to me. I love children and healthy children are happy children. Growing up in a large family I have seen the difficult times my overweight niece has experienced. This is a subject that is close to my heart and I feel if you chose a subject of interest to you then you will stay focused and not get bored rather than doing research of something that you have no interest in. There are many countries in which children are overweight. I will focus primarily on the children in the USA. By researching the factors involved with overweight children will help me to develop a clear and focused paper. I will also focus on the children from infancy through childhood. The claim in which I plan to argue is that children are influenced by adults primarily parents therefore by setting good examples for proper nutrition and exercise we can provide them with the information they need to live a healthy lifestyle. Patterns in eating may well be established early in life and it is probable that overweight parents unconsciously encourage habits of excessive intake in their children. We must teach our children by doing, which means parents must also follow a nutritional and exercise...
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...AP Photo/LisA BiLLings Confronting America’s Childhood Obesity Epidemic How the Health Care Reform Law Will Help Prevent and Reduce Obesity Ellen-Marie Whelan, Lesley Russell, and Sonia Sekhar May 2010 w w w.americanprogress.org Confronting America’s Childhood Obesity Epidemic How the Health Care Reform Law Will Help Prevent and Reduce Obesity Ellen-Marie Whelan, Lesley Russell, and Sonia Sekhar May 2010 Contents 1 Fast Facts on Childhood Obesity 3 Introduction and summary 6 Provisions included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that address childhood obesity 6 Childhood Obesity Demonstration Project 7 Nutrition labeling 7 Community Transformation Grants 9 Broader measures in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to tackle childhood obesity 9 Prevention and public health 15 Primary care and coordination 18 Community-based Care 20 Maternal and child health 22 Research: Doing what works in obesity prevention 23 Data provisions that will help with tracking and providing improved outcomes to measure obesity prevention 25 What else is needed? 27 Beyond health care 29 Conclusion 30 Appendix: The White House Childhood Obesity Initiative 32 Endnotes 34 About the authors Fast Facts on Childhood Obesity Our nation’s children today are on track to have a lower life expectancy than their parents The obesity epidemic poses serious health problems for children including cardiovascular disease,...
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...Epidemiology Paper on Childhood Obesity Obesity is a global epidemic affecting millions of the world population. Childhood obesity is especially worrisome as it is linked to higher incidence of health issues in adulthood (Lakshman, Elks, & Ong, 2012). There are many factors to look at when assessing the prevalence of childhood obesity, including culture, socio-economic status, food availability, activity, and genetics. To better understand this problem, it is essential to understand the factors that lead to obesity, how obesity is studied, and what are ways to help reduce the occurrence of obesity. Through epidemiology, this health concern can be better understood and provide the information needed to generate a plan of action to help reduce the risk factors that lead to childhood obesity. Epidemiology is “the study of the occurrence and distribution of health–related states or events and specified populations, including the study of the determinants influencing such states, and the application of this knowledge to control the health problems” (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2012, pg 255). Through epidemiology the questions of who, what, where, when, how, and why can be investigated to offer information about the dissemination or patterns of health measures. The Epidemiological Triangle allows epidemiologists to understand the relationships between agent, host, and the environment when looking at a specific health concern. When considering childhood obesity, the agent could be viewed...
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...nutrient-poor foodstuffs with very high sugar and saturated fats level, merged with reduced exercises, have led to corpulence rates that have increased three-times or more since 1980 in North America, Eastern Europe, the UK, the Pacific Islands, the Middle East, Australasia and China, as said by the UN-backed World Health Organization (WHO). A recent research reveals that Obesity in pregnancy causes a tremendous danger to the wellbeing of the unborn infant. Infants of overweight mothers are born as pre-diabetics or with severe birth imperfections that can cause kidney or heart disease, besides other troubles. These issues much strengthens in the age group 1year to 10 years. Overeating in pregnancy can have significant and numerous precarious health impacts on an unborn infant.[1] In this research paper, I have analyzed several factors of obesity in pregnant mothers that lead to health issues for their unborn infants and it will affect them through their lives. I have conducted a comprehensive interview with Executive Director of “The Consumer Wellness Center”, Mike Adams, who in detail describes the dangers associated with obesity in mothers and its effects on their children. Further a latest about the issue has been analyzed with a recommendation to mothers on how they can avoid this increasingly spread health concern followed by a comprehensive conclusion. Summary of Observations The most prominent finding of our analysis is the devastating consequence that mother’s...
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...Childhood Obesity Shakia Bennett ENG 122: English Composition II Marsh Bechwith-Howard April 15, 2012 Childhood Obesity: Whose Fault is it? The Ashford library, ebooks, and newspaper articles are where the sources on childhood obesity came from. When doing research on childhood obesity, nutrition and parenting were some of the main reoccurring topics of childhood obesity. This paper will focus on unhealthy and healthy eating habits of obese children, and the effects of parenting towards childhood obesity as well as ways to overcome childhood obesity. In the United States there has been a rise in childhood obesity, but whose fault is it? Some parents blame fast food restaurants such as McDonalds, saying their food is unhealthy and the portions are too big. However, on the first part the blame for childhood obesity should be on the parents. Although fast food restaurants do paly a small part in childhood obesity, it is up to the parents to determine what they allow their children to eat. Parents should stop blaming fast food restaurants for childhood obesity when healthy eating habits should be enforced at home. Childhood obesity is a rising serious medical condition that affects children and adolescents. Approximately 15 percent of U.S. children, ages 6–11, and 16 percent of U.S. adolescents, ages 12–19, are obese (Encyclopedia of Special Education, 2006). Childhood obesity occurs when a child is above the normal weight for his or her age and height. Obesity appears...
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