Obesity on children
Lauri Gavilano
EN1320
09/02/2014

Obesity on children

Obese children and teenagers face a high risk of potential health problems as they get older, bad eating habits formed during childhood may lead the child to be overweight, with worrying consequences in adulthood, mainly for health. The consequences of childhood obesity, the result of fat accumulation in the body are related to the development of diabetes and cardiovascular problems. It also affects in the mental and social development due to social discrimination and low self-esteem.
The first changes to occur in obese children are usually emotional or psychological. However, childhood obesity can also lead to more severe physical consequences and can be life threatening, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, sleep problems, cancer and other diseases. Obesity has a very important role in the development of bad physical health of the child; according to a study by Centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) noted that about 15% of children and adolescents are now overweight (Riccairdelli & Schwimmer, 2012). There are many factors that contribute to childhood obesity but most common are lifestyle issues like lack of activity and too many calories from food and drinks. The lack of activities has a big impact on gaining weight, also the family history and socio economic factors.
The consequences of childhood obesity are not only physical but also psychological. Obese children often suffer from bullying and rejection by peers. Some are harassed or discriminated against by their own family. These problems may still be present until adulthood. Some of the most common psychological problems in obese children are: self-esteem issues, depression and integration of children with normal weight (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2014). Behavior and learning problems are common