Is Childhood Obesity An Adult Problem?

In 2005 the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force questioned obesity screening for children. However, in 2010 it recommended screening. Evidence supports that behavioral intervention and counseling can lead to weight control, with the benefit outweighing any stigma of being labeled overweight. Obesity would be measured on the body-mass-index - a measure of weight in relation to height. Children with BMI's in the 85th to 94th percentile for their age and gender would be considered overweight. Children with BMI's over the 94th percentile would be considered obese. Because the USPSTF recommended screening start at age six, it doesn't have a "weight-and-see" attitude.

Nevertheless, a 2010 study published in the journal Clinical Pediatrics found the "tipping point" in obesity can occur in infancy. After studying medical records of 111 overweight children, researchers discovered the tipping point occurred as early as 3 months. More than 50% of the children were overweight by age 2 and 90% before age 5. Being overweight increases risk of type-2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Because 37% of American children are overweight and 16% ages 2-19 are obese, inappropriate weight gain needs to be addressed early. Otherwise, ending childhood obesity has only a - fat chance.

A 2010 study published in the journal Healthy Affairs found children are snacking so often - an average of 3 snacks a day - they're becoming constant eaters. Salty snacks and candy are on the increase, but desserts and sweetened beverages are the major source of snack calories. More than 27% of American kids' calories come from snacks. Between 1977 and 2006 children increased their caloric intake by 113 calories a day. Obesity for children 10-17 increased from 14.8% in 2003 to 16.4% in 2007. Although the dictionary defines snacks as light means, they have heavy consequences.

Finally, a 2010 study by the University of California/Los Angeles found physically unfit students scored lower on standardized tests. A group of 1,989 5th, 7th and 9th graders completed a 1-mile run/walk fitness test. When physical fitness and body weight were compared with California standardized tests in language, math and reading, overweight and obese students scored significantly lower. Test scores dropped more than 1 point for each extra minute required to finish the fitness test. Allowing for age, socioeconomic status, gender, ethnicity and body size didn't significantly alter the results. Obviously, the support parents and schools give physical fitness shouldn't be "fit-ful".