Obesity

Obesity in children is on the rise. Almost 9 million children and adolescents in the United States age 6 to 19 are overweight, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The percentage of overweight children age 6 to 11 more than doubled from 7 percent in 1980 to more than 15 percent today, while the percentage of overweight adolescents age 12 to 19 tripled in the same period, from 5 percent to 15 percent. The problem is particularly prevalent among minority groups and those with lower family incomes.

Being overweight has many causes and is not simply a result of eating too much. Biochemical and genetic factors can play a role. That said, many children don't meet recommended guidelines for healthy eating. It's estimated that almost 80 percent of young people don't eat the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables. Children often don't eat enough fiber, which may help with weight control. And many consume considerably more sugar, fat and calories than they need. Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soda and juice that add considerable calories, are partly to blame. In addition, many children don't get enough physical activity.

Obesity increases a child's risk for a number of diseases and conditions and they're more likely to become overweight adults. Moreover, unhealthy diet and physical activity patterns are known risk factors for the three leading causes of death in adults -- cancer, stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Prevention is the key to combating the childhood obesity epidemic.

At UCSF Children's Hospital, weight management care is provided by the Weight Assessment for Teen and Child Health (WATCH) Clinic. To be seen at the clinic, children need referrals from their primary care doctors before scheduling appointments.

Watch our videos
Pediatric Obesity, Part I
Pediatric Obesity, Part II
UC TV, Real Player

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007