5 Serious Health Problems Associated with Childhood Obesity

The obesity epidemic in the United States is well known. Defined as having a body mass index (BMI) over 30 by the World Health Organization, there are a wide range of contributing factors leading to obesity in up to 8% of children under the age of 19.

Obesity is more than simply living with a few extra pounds. It’s the origin of many otherwise preventable health issues that can follow a child throughout their life. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy BMI can be difficult for children. That’s why our board-certified team at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics in Rockville, Maryland, takes childhood obesity seriously. 

Understanding childhood obesity

It’s normal for children to undergo many changes in their journey to adulthood, and weight fluctuations are common. No one can diagnose childhood obesity visually, since everyone develops in their own way and at their own pace. 

BMI is a standard ratio of weight to height, so it’s not always the best way to assess obesity in a child when the impact of their frame and body fat levels may influence their actual health risks. 

If your child’s weight combines with certain lifestyle factors, the obesity equation may be altered against the healthy side. Consider factors like: 

• Lack of physical play: inactivity means low calorie burn levels and a lack of physical conditioning
• Family history: genetics and environment lead to weight gain and a poor relationship with food
• Food preferences: high-calorie and processed foods lead to weight gain and poor nutrition
• Psychological factors: stress eating is a concern for some children
• Medications: prescription drugs can sometimes contribute to weight gain

Visit us if you think circumstances and conditions may be leading your child toward an obesity issue. 

Health problems associated with childhood obesity

Children are as susceptible to complications from obesity as adults and have the same potential health problems. 

1. Joint pain

The added weight from obesity is hard on load-bearing joints like knees and hips. Children are vulnerable to these effects too, leading to back and joint pain in some cases. As with adults, even modest amounts of weight loss can make a big difference. 

2. High blood pressure

Obesity adds to the distance blood travels through the body, forcing your child’s heart to work harder to keep their cells supplied. High blood pressure is a common reaction in overweight people of all ages, which in children ages their blood vessels prematurely, raising their risk of heart attacks and strokes later in life. 

3. Type 2 diabetes

Along with a sedentary lifestyle, obesity raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a metabolic condition where blood glucose levels climb as your child’s body resists the effects of naturally produced insulin. 

4. Asthma and breathing issues

Children with obesity often carry a higher risk of asthma and a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea that causes breathing stoppages as they sleep. 

5. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

While nonalcoholic fatty liver disease rarely shows symptoms, it can scar your child’s liver tissue and lead to liver damage in the years ahead. 

Obesity can also have emotional and social consequences. The earlier your child is diagnosed and treated, the better their chances of sidestepping all the risks posed by high body mass. 

Schedule an appointment for your child with Abdow Friendship Pediatrics by phone or online today.