Childhood Obesity as a Serious Health Problem of the World

Childhood Obesity as a Serious Health Problem of the World Childhood obesity is a serious health condition that affects the wellbeing of children. It is a condition characterized by excess fats in the body.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Childhood Obesity as a Serious Health Problem of the World specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The condition is an issue of international concern because it affects children in various parts of the world. The condition poses serious challenges to families, the society, and the global economy. The Body Mass Index is applied in identifying the condition in children over the age of two years (Costa, 2006). The disease causes stigmatization because obese children are often referred to as overweight. The Body Mass Index level in children depends on their age and sex. The health practitioners propose that ninety- five percent is the accepted level to declare the child’s health condition obese. Childhood obesity is becoming a health problem in many parts of the world, including the US. It is a cause of health problems, traditionally referred to as the adult and rich man’s diseases. The World Health Organization indicates that an estimated forty two million children are obese. Surprisingly, about thirty five million of children are from developing countries. This shows the effects the condition is having on both low income and middle income earning families. Large volumes of calories cause obesity in children. The condition is worse when children do not practice. If a child consumes more and expends less, the chances of him developing the condition are very high. Globally, people have shifted their eating lifestyles. The eating behavior now leans towards consuming foods with too much fat and sugar content. These foods have very low levels of minerals, vitamins, and many other healthy micronutrients. Urbanization has some effects on the health of children. There are changes in the modes of transport. People no longe r walk to their work places, which has reduced the people’s opportunity to exercise (Sheila, 2004). Recreational facilities are modified to a level that they do not serve to keep people physically fit. Childhood obesity has both long-term and short-term effects. The effects affect children, families, and the society. The condition affects the emotional and psychological state of children. This could result from teasing, harassment, and discrimination. The perpetrators range from friends to family members.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More These effects usually result to low self-esteem and depression in children. Another effect is the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. These are mainly non-communicable diseases. They include high blood pressure, liver disease, heart diseases, and diabetes. The condition also leads to early puberty and bad eating habbits such as anorexia. Adolescent obesity generally leads to adult obesity. Childhood obesity is preventable and curable. It is the responsibility of societal members to ensure that children maintain good health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one of the prevention measures. This entails changing the eating habits and the lifestyle. Eating habits should be changed to conform to the recommended health standards. This would reduce the chances of developing childhood obesity. Physical exercise plays a bigger role in preventing the effects of the disease. Due to limited chances among children to choose what they consume, special attention should be given to exercise. Clear rules and regulations should be designed, especially those that determine the diet of children. In conclusion, it is clear that childhood obesity is a condition whose effect is global. Therefore, all parties must come together to curb the effects of the disease. References Costa, R. (2006). Obesity in Children and adolesc ents. New York: Public Health Nutrition Academy Sheila, G. (2004). Child and Adolescent Obesity: Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care. New York: Pearson.