National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, observed annually in September, assumes a critical role in addressing the concerning issue of childhood obesity. Check out the significance of this awareness month, understand the ill effects of childhood obesity, and discuss the criteria for labelling a child as obese. Childhood Obesity: Govt Survey Finds Drastic Rise in Obesity Among Kids Under 5 Years in 20 States.

Childhood Obesity Awareness Month History & Significance

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is a dedicated period to spotlight the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity and its associated health risks. The month serves as a platform to educate parents, caregivers, educators, and the community about the importance of healthy habits, balanced diets, and physical activity to prevent and manage childhood obesity.

Ill-Effects of Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity brings forth a range of adverse consequences that impact both physical and psychological well-being:

Health Risks: Obese children are at a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. These conditions were once considered adult health concerns but are now affecting children due to obesity.

Psychological Impact: Childhood obesity can lead to low self-esteem, body image issues, and an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Social isolation and bullying can further exacerbate these emotional challenges.

Bone and Joint Problems: Excess weight places undue stress on the bones and joints, increasing the likelihood of musculoskeletal issues and conditions like arthritis at a younger age.

Breathing Difficulties: Childhood obesity is linked to breathing problems such as sleep apnea and asthma. These conditions can significantly impact a child's quality of life and overall health.

Early Puberty: Obesity can trigger early puberty in some cases, leading to emotional and physical challenges for children navigating these changes.

Criteria for Labeling a Child as Obese

A child is typically labelled obese based on their body mass index (BMI), a measure that considers the relationship between weight and height. The BMI value is compared to growth charts specific to a child's age and gender. The criteria for childhood obesity include:

Obesity: A BMI at or above the 95th percentile for children of the same age and gender on growth charts is considered obese.

Overweight: A BMI between the 85th and 94th percentile is considered overweight.

It's important to note that BMI is just one factor considered in assessing a child's overall health. Healthcare professionals take into account growth patterns, family history, physical activity, and dietary habits when evaluating a child's weight status.

In conclusion, National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month serves as a call to action to address the pressing issue of childhood obesity. By highlighting its ill effects and providing educational resources, this awareness month strives to equip parents, caregivers, and communities with the knowledge to promote healthier lifestyles for children.

(Disclaimer: This article is written for an informative purpose and should not be substituted for medical advice. Kindly consult your doctor or professional nutritionist before trying any tips.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 04, 2023 12:05 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).