Obesity Weight Loss Program & Children
Obesity in children is an increasing, international
problem. Obesity increases a child's risk of chest infections, mobility
problems, emotional upsets, high blood pressure and cholesterol; and can
impact on their future health.
Obesity Program for Children
Leeds Metropolitan University, co-ordinated program that aimed to reduce
risk factors for obesity by improving both the quality of children's diets
and levels of physical activity over one academic year. As part of evaluation
of the program, levels of overweight and obesity were assessed in the
children. Between July 1996 and July 1998, the research revealed that
not only was there a higher than expected prevalence of overweight and
obesity, but it increased over the 2 years. In 1996, 8.9% of the children
(mean age 8.4 years) were obese, and by 1998, 13.9% (now a mean age of
10.4 years) were obese.
Obesity Program for Children - Results
The study was particularly concerning because the increase in obesity
occurred in children participating in a program aimed at reducing obesity
risk factors. However, the program was only funded for one year, and longer,
better resourced program are needed to support children and their families,
and help curb this spiraling problem of childhood obesity.
Source: PRESS RELEASE 2000. British Dietetic
Association
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