The Effects of Childhood Obesity in Teens

The Effects of Childhood Obesity in Teens

Introduction

The main purpose of this paper is to make an analysis on the effects of obesity on teens. Obesity has been recognized in human populations for thousands of years. Historically, evidence of human obesity dates to prehistoric times and is depicted in the Stone Age statues of obese human forms. The paintings of Ruben display an ideal female form that is obese by today's western standards (Davies, 2001). There is a very negative impact of obesity on teens. The physical consequences of obesity among teens are important. People who are overweight by 20% or more is considered normal, would be more likely to have medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lung and kidney, gout and tumor complications. Being overweight is associated with increased risk of death.

Discussion

Obesity in infancy is not solely a problem in that age group, but is related to persistence of obesity into later childhood and adult life. With extensive data from studies on twins and on families, researchers have established that obesity is influenced by genetic factors (Eid, 2000). However, genetic background alone cannot explain the increasing prevalence of obesity in developed countries (Dietz, 2004). The prevalence of obesity (triceps skin fold measurement >85th percentile) among children 6 to ii years old increased 54% in the years between the first National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1963-1970) and the second survey (1976—1980). In the same period, the prevalence of super obesity (triceps skin fold measurement >95th percentile) increased 98% among children in the same age range (Cutler, 2003).

Effect of Obesity on teens

Hand today obesity is a pressing problem for the teens because of its progressive spread. WHO experts suggest doubling the number of obese in 2025 compared to 2000. To date, more than a billion teens worldwide have excess body weight. In Russia, more than 50% of teens are overweight, about 30% are obese or less (Eid, 2000). Excess weight is recognized as one of the major risk factor for many diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, liver and gall bladder, and many others.

There is an increase in the number of obese teens in our country. According to the literature, the prevalence of obesity among teens ranges from 3-5 to 20%. The huge medical and social importance of the obesity and diseases associated with obesity, manifests in teens, determine the relevance of further research in this direction (Davies, 2001).

Obesity in teens is a growing global problem. The problem has become so alarming that several international organizations studying the issue very seriously, including the World Health Organization. According to this, measures must be taken immediately to combat this epidemic problem and its impact (Davies, 2001). In Canada, the number of overweight teens is growing. Between 1981 and 1996, the percentage of overweight boys increased by 92% and girls increased by 57% (Davies, 2001). In Quebec, it has been estimated that between 10% and 15% of teens are ...