Childhood obesity: nurses’ role in addressing the epidemic

Abstract

Obesity is a significant long-term health problem that is common among children and adolescents in Western countries. Being overweight or obese (extremely overweight) can contribute to type 2 diabetes in childhood and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Primary prevention of obesity prevents the development of serious secondary complications in adulthood. Nurses can help parents and children by providing nutritional advice and, through weight management programmes, offer strategies for decreasing caloric intake and increasing physical activity. Nurses' actions should always take a whole-family approach because it is challenging for obese children to alter their dietary or physical habits if not supported by their families. Nurses should work with all members of the multidisciplinary team in addressing childhood obesity as it is a major health issue with long-term mobidities.

Overweight and Obesity among Children: An Evaluation of a Walking Program

“…The participants were asked to partake in basic exercise, walking. Increasing physical activity helps to improve children's health and psychological wellbeing (Ben-Sefer, Ben-Natan, and Ehrenfeld 2009; Rabbitt and Coyne 2012). Current health conditions of American children and adults are declining.…”

“…Global trends point to increasing prevalence in 97 countries and approximately 65% of the world's population live in countries where obesity kills more people than underweight (Harris et al 2009;Rabbitt and Coyne 2012). For example, the magnitude of chronic health problems such as overweight and obesity in China is escalating (Griffiths 2010).…”

“…Obesity is also proving to have extremely detrimental health effects during childhood. Overweight children have an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, hyperlipidemia, musculoskeletal disorders, early sexual maturation, and psychosocial issues such as low self-esteem, bullying, social isolation, poor body image, and discrimination (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2008;Franks et al 2010;Lueke 2011;National Association of School Nurses 2003;Rabbitt and Coyne 2012).…”

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Obesity and Overweight in Elementary School-Age (5 to 15 Years Old) Children in South-eastern Turkey

“…The first step in dealing with obesity is to determine the prevalence and dimensions of obesity. Nurses can also play an important role in defining obesity, nutrition education, strategies for lower calorie consumption, and weight management (16)(17)(18).…”

Toward Collective Intelligence for Fighting Obesity

“…Rabbit and Coyne [4] posit that, obesity can contribute to Type II diabetes in children and also intensify the risk of cardiovascular disease in adults. In addition, childhood obesity contributes to coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, other chronic diseases, and premature mortality.…”