Childhood obesity: an emergent problem

Obesity is one of the most serious health problems facing the youth of the world. The evidence suggests that the problem is worsening rapidly. The increase in the prevalence of childhood obesity are facing in the future generation of overweight and obese adults perhaps even more obese than the current generation of adults. Because of the close association obesity with different chronic diseases, this condition presents an enormous challenge to health care system. Defining obesity in children has been difficult as assessing body fat in expensive and impractical. Body mass index (BMI), is used as a surrogate indicator in adults. In children, the consensus is to use BMI percentiles statistically derived from a reference population. The recommended treatment for an overweight child to achieve a more healthful weight uses four primary behavioural strategies: reduce energy intake, increase energy expenditure, actively engage parents and primary caretakers asagents of change and facilitate a supportive family environment. Prevention of overweight is critical, because long-term outcome data for successful treatment. Genetic, environmental, or combinations of risk factors predisposing children to obesity can and should be identified. Families should be educated and empowered through anticipatory guidance to recognize the impact they have on their children’s development of lifelong habits of physical activity and nutritious eating. Dietary practices should be fostered that encourage moderation rather than over consumption, emphasizing healthful choices rather than restrictive eating patterns. Regular physical activity should be consciously promoted, prioritized, and protected within families, schools, and communities. Optimal approaches to prevention need to combine dietary and physical activity interventions. Children should be helped to develop healthy nutrition and exercise habits early, since interventions are most effective when behaviours are still being formed. In this review paper we present the epidemiology, assessment, treatment and prevention associated with this public health phenomenon