Publication Date
5-1-2023
Keywords
childhood obesity, United States, lifestyle of children, health education
Volume
2023
Abstract
Childhood obesity has been a problem in the United States for decades. The rate of childhood obesity has tripled since the 1970s. As of 2023, 1 in 5 children in the US are obese, with this number rising yearly. Childhood obesity is exacerbated by the lifestyle of children, where their attention is consumed by technology use at the expense of consuming nutritious foods and participating in physical activities. The lack of physical education in schools influences children’s health education and is partly responsible for childhood obesity. Genetics also play a role in childhood obesity depending on the characteristics of a child’s unique genetic makeup. Some negative consequences of childhood obesity are poor physical health, mental health, and social isolation. Many children who currently suffer from obesity will continue to suffer with these consequences far into their adult lives. Family-centered interventions focusing on heavy parent involvement in children’s diet and exercise are the best current practice to combat childhood obesity. Organizations are providing programs and resources for parents to educate their children.
Recommended Citation
Stohl, Emma
(2023)
"Childhood Obesity in the United States,"
Ballard Brief: Vol. 2023:
Iss.
2, Article 9.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/ballardbrief/vol2023/iss2/9