The Epidemic of Pediatric Obesity
Over the past two decades, pediatric obesity has reached epidemic proportions in this country. National surveys show an alarming increase in the prevalence of overweight in children, with prevalence rates almost three times higher among 2-19 year olds in 2003-2004 than they were in 1976-1980. In the state of North Carolina, nearly 50% of children ages 12 -18 years are overweight or obese.
The health consequences of being overweight during childhood include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems, liver problems, and sleep and emotional problems. Carrying these health consequences into adulthood is even more likely, as one study showed that without treatment, 80% of overweight children grew to become obese adults.
CDC Childhood Overweight
Causes and Contributors
What We Can Do About It
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