“Childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century. The problem is global and is steadily affecting many low- and middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. The prevalence has increased at an alarming rate. Globally, in 2010 the number of overweight children under the age of five, is estimated to be over 42 million. Close to 35 million of these are living in developing countries.

Overweight and obese children are likely to stay obese into adulthood and more likely to develop noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases at a younger age. Overweight and obesity, as well as their related diseases, are largely preventable. Prevention of childhood obesity therefore needs high priority.”

WHO Fact Sheet Pediatric Obesity, Retrieved from http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/childhood/en

When talking about obesity in children, the thought is, “oh there are not that many children..and they will lose their baby fat as they grow up”.  This is no longer true.  Children are becoming more challenged with being overweight and obese.  There are several issues to consider.  According to Centers for Disease Control (2010), there are several issues that need to be addressed.  The rate of childhood obesity has increased over the past 30 years.  The rates of increase are alarming and need to  considered carefully.  What can we do to help reduce obesity in children?  Well, there are many things we can do.  But, first, what the numbers?  Over the past 30 years, the rate of obesity in children is rising…for ages 6-11, the rate has increased from 6.5% to 19.6%.  For children 12-19, the rates are about the same, in 1980, 5% were obese, now  it is 18.1% and rising (Centers for Disease Control, 2010). And with the WHO estimating that 42 million children worldwide under 5 are overweight, the prognosis is not good.  There are many issues that need to be considered, as this crisis is not easing off or decreasing, but increasing at fast rates all over the world.  

Centers for Disease Control. (2010). Health topics: Childhood obesity. Retrieved from  http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/obesity