Essay Childhood Obesity

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Childhood Obesity
Obesity is known as a notorious American epidemic. According to a 2013 research article by Sorg, Yehle, Coddington, and Ahmed, it is currently estimated that 12.5 million children in the United States are obese. Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for a child’s age and gender, as plotted on the CDC growth charts (Sorg et al., 2013). The numbers of obese children have more than tripled over the past 30 years; the Centers for Disease Control CDC reports that another 12 million are at risk in becoming over weight. It is believed that the health issue can be remedied by weight-loss planning, family intervention and family support. Before an intervention can be planned the child’s willingness to participate must be assessed. Organic causes of obesity must be ruled out, such as hormonal conditions and illnesses due to their potential to cause obesity. These precautions must be considered prior to the start of the weight loss plan. Medications such as certain antidepressants and corticosteroids are also variables as they are linked to weight gain in children (Sorg, 2013). After primary obesity is diagnosed, a thorough history and physical exam will follow to asses if the individual have developed other health conditions caused by obesity. According to Sorg, after assessment other factors of value in weight-loss planning are goal setting, diet and exercise education, and motivation.

Without proper nutritional guidance children have an increased risk of developing unhealthy lifestyles resulting in an increased risk of becoming obese. It is said that a child’s family environment influences health status (Sorg, 2013). “Behavioral interventions such as dietary modifications are more likely to become long-term lifestyle changes when presented to the entire family rather than directed pointedly at changing one individual’s attitudes and habits (Sorg, 2013). Sorg is stating that behavioral interventions directed towards the entire family is more efficient compared to isolating the individual. Behavioral interventions is interpreted as a more enjoyable and social activity rather than an inconvenience. Intervention is important to decrease the risk of this health issue; however, family support is of high value in order to promote sustainability. “Parents are encouraged to use their authority as a tool by creating
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