Implementation of Health Education to Combat Childhood Obesity Presented by Melisa Morrow

Alarming Statistics obesity among children age 6 to 11 has nearly tripled from 1980 to 2004 one-third of youth from age 2 to 19 are overweight among 2-5 year olds, 27% are overweight or obese

Which Children are at Risk? Factors to consider Level of education of parents Socio-economic status of family Ethnic minorities (ie African American & Latino) Immigration/Acculturation

Why Start Young? Impressionable Eating becomes pleasurable Lifestyle habits are still being established “Young children are more likely than older children to be influenced by adults, and eating and activity habits acquired early can track into adulthood” (Reynolds et al., 2013, p. 8) Obesity as early as preschool can continue into adult life

Impact of Childhood Obesity Lack of nourishment can impede proper development Mental and social repercussions Health risks later in life Hypertension Coronary heart disease Type 2 diabetes Osteoporosis Dyslipidemia Stroke Sleep Apnea Some cancers Gall bladder disease Ect

Implications for U.S. Health Care “Obesity is a key driver of the health care system because it greatly increases the risk for acquiring many high-cost diseases.” Treatment Providing care “We recognize that working with children-through schools and sports programs-is where obesity prevention needs to begin.” (Kovner & Knickman, 2011, p. 359)

Solutions Home: Education for parents/caregivers Healthy choices Portion sizes Modeling

Solutions School: Nutrition education Strategies aimed at appealing to children Encourage physical activity Involve parents/caregivers

Solutions Let’s Move! Community Enlist local sports teams Public service Community events Let’s Move!

Conclusion Obesity in childhood is common and becoming more prevalent Obesity in childhood can contribute to a host of diseases and health conditions in adulthood Caring for obese patients puts a strain on the health care system Obesity is preventable and there are ways to combat the trend

Questions?

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