Whats the problem with being obese as a child?
An obese child is at risk of serious medical and psychological problems, including: • An increased risk of heart disease as an adult. • Onset of type 2 diabetes as a child or teenager. • High blood pressure. • High cholesterol levels. • Psychological and social complications including low self-esteem and depression. • Serious hip disorders principally Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis. • Abnormal bowing of the legs (Blount Disease). • Flat feet. • Skin problems secondary to chafing, or diabetes. • Obstructive sleep apnoea. • Benign intracranial hypertension. • Gall bladder disease and gallstones. • A mild form of liver disease which may predispose to other problems. • Marked stigmatisation in many areas of life. Further, a child who is overweight or obese is more likely to continue to put on extra weight in the future. The sooner the problem is identified and managed, the better the chances for that child to retain optimum health.
