Basics About Childhood Obesity Week 1 Day 1

How is overweight and obesity measured? Body mass index (BMI) is a measure used to determine childhood overweight and obesity. It is calculated using a child's weight and height. BMI does not measure body fat directly, but it is a reasonable indicator of body fatness for most children and teens. Overweight is defined as a BMI at or above the 85th percentile and lower than the 95th percentile for children of the same age and sex. Obesity is defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for children of the same age and sex.

BMI charts

BMI Charts cntd…

What are the consequences of obesity? Obese children are more likely to have- – High blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In one study, 70% of obese children had at least one CVD risk factor, and 39% had two or more. – Increased risk of impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. – Breathing problems, such as sleep apnea, and asthma. – Joint problems and musculoskeletal discomfort. – Fatty liver disease, gallstones, and gastro-esophageal reflux (i.e., heartburn). – Obese children and adolescents have a greater risk of social and psychological problems, such as discrimination and poor self-esteem, which can continue into adulthood. – Health risks later… Obese children are more likely to become obese adults. Adult obesity is associated with a number of serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. If children are overweight, obesity in adulthood is likely to be more severe.

2009 State Prevalence Among Low-Income Children Ages 2-4 Years

Country Obesity Prevalence Among Low-Income Children Aged 2-4 Years

What does this tell us?

What causes childhood obesity? Childhood obesity is the result of eating too many calories and not getting enough physical activity. Watch: Childhood Obesity in AmericaChildhood Obesity in America Time to write: Take 3-5 minutes to write down on a piece of paper your reactions to the clip. Share these reactions after the writing is completed.

Influence of factors at home, school, or in the community Brainstorm as a class the difference influences that could have an impact on obesity: Compare with the list below… Sugar drinks and less healthy foods on school campuses. Advertising of less healthy foods. Lack of daily, quality physical activity in all schools. No safe and appealing place to play or be active. Limited access to healthy affordable foods. Greater availability of high-energy-dense foods and sugar drinks Increasing portion sizes Television and media

References Center for Disease Control and Prevention