Childhood Obesity
Lynetta M
ENG121: English Composition II
October 10, 2011
The topic that I have chosen for research is childhood obesity. The epidemic of overweight children is on the rise in the U.S. I have chosen to discuss this topic to show the importance that parents and caregivers have on the influence of our children’s health. Looking at how we can prevent putting children at risk for becoming overweight. Obesity affects more than children's appearance and the fit of their clothes; it has serious consequences for their health and well-being. People who are obese are more likely to have health problems such as high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and insulin levels, impaired glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes, bone and joint problems, obstructive sleep apnea, asthma attacks, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, kidney problems, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Overweight and obesity are also associated with psychosocial problems such as poor self-esteem and depression.
The ultimate cost of obesity is a drastically reduced quality of life and a shorter life span. Although not every obese child will have these health problems, doctors are seeing many of these problems in younger and younger children. Since genes and family lifestyles play an important role in body make up. It is important to also take this into consideration when determining if a child is overweight. A child’s ethnic background and family medical history does play a factor. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey says “There are significant racial and ethnic disparities in obesity prevalence among U.S. children and adolescents. In 2007—2008, Hispanic boys, aged 2 to 19 years, were significantly more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white boys, and non-Hispanic black girls were significantly more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white girls”. Since it is not possible for us to change our genetic makeup, it is very important for us to adopt healthy...