Overview
Obesity in children and teenagers is a major medical problem that affects them. Obese children are overweight or obese for their age and height, and they are at a higher risk of developing a variety of health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Obesity in children can contribute to low self-esteem and sadness. More importantly, the effects of childhood obesity on one’s health can last into adulthood. India has the second-highest number of obese children in the world, next to China.
Complications
- High blood pressure or heart disease: A poor diet can contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries, narrowing and hardening the arteries and increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke later in life.
- Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle raise the chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a potentially dangerous disorder in which a child’s breathing stops and begins regularly during sleep.
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fatty deposits build up in the liver without causing any symptoms. NAFLD can cause scarring and damage to the liver.
- Obese children are more likely to suffer from bone fractures.
- Asthma: Overweight or obese children are more likely to develop asthma.
- Irregular menstruation: In maturity, overweight girls may experience irregular menstrual periods and fertility issues.
Preventions
- Sugar-sweetened beverages should be used in moderation.
- Physical inactivity, as well as spending too much time doing sedentary activities, contribute to the condition.
- Unhealthy eating habits, such as eating fast food, can lead to weight growth in children.
- Factors of inheritance, If the child comes from a family of obese individuals, he or she is more likely to gain weight.
- A medical ailment such as a hormone imbalance is one example.
- concerns of the mind, Stressed or unhappy children may eat more to cope with their unpleasant feelings.
- Social and economic circumstances, Obesity is more likely to impact children and adolescents who originate from low-income families.