Childhood Obesity, Prevention and Treatment of

Childhood obesity can have both immediate and long-term consequences. In the short term, children with obesity have a higher likelihood of having (a) high blood pressure and cholesterol, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD); (b) increased risk of impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes; (c) breathing problems, such as sleep apnea, and asthma; (d) joint problems and musculoskeletal discomfort; (e) fatty liver disease, gallstones, and gastro-esophageal reflux (i.e., heartburn); and (f) psychosocial problems, such as weight stigma/discrimination and poor self-esteem.

Long term, children who are obese are more likely to become obese adults. Adult obesity is associated with many serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Thus, addressing childhood obesity prevention and/or treatment as part of family therapy is ...