New Strategies for Dealing with Childhood Obesity
An article on childhood obesity in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, rules out genetic factors for the rise in obesity among American children. “Increases in consumption of high-fat, energy-dense foods and declines in spontaneous and work-related physical activity over the past several decades are two of the major environmental factors thought to contribute to the current epidemic of obesity,” states the article.
Multipronged attack
Describing a new, multipronged approach to eliminating obesity, the article also points out the need for implementing prevention methods, which are seldom employed. The journal details the need for support from the following:
1. Parents and family members. “Parents must be willing and able to make changes in their own eating and physical activity patterns.”
2. Health care professionals. “They need to be informed about the health risks associated with childhood obesity and about the treatment options that are available.”
3. Schools. For some children, school is the first place they learn about the benefits of healthy foods and daily exercise. “There is an urgent need for schools to reconsider and revise their physical activity policies and programs,” with increases in daily exercise and nutritious lunches.
4. Community. Both community leaders and programs must take the initiative to work with schools and parents to offer classes, camps or activities that encourage physical activity.
5. Public health. The focus needs to turn toward prevention and not just treatment of childhood obesity. “The issue must be addressed as a public health problem, and we must seek public health solutions.”
6. Government. The article concludes that “only when childhood obesity becomes high on the public agenda will the necessary research funds from government and private agencies become available.”
Kid-friendly technology
Health care professionals are working to develop kid-friendly technology like the KNOWME NETWORKS program, which uses mobile phones to collect and transmit health data. The phone also "allows for immediate, real-time feedback through the phone display and through text messaging, image and voice tags."
