The Social Consequences of Childhood Obesity

Abstract

This paper describes the causes, consequences and risks of childhood obesity. Preventive measures to eradicate this social epidemic from the world are also discussed. Childhood obesity has be increasing across the globe. This epidemic is likely to be carried in adulthood, so obese children seem to remain obese throughout their lives. Thus, it is very important to take measures in childhood to tackle weight gain and to fight against obesity. Obese children and adults are prone to many physical and psychological health threats, such as depression, anxiety, risk of diabetes, hypertension, and even worse. They are also likely to face various emotional and financial risks. Obese children are stigmatized by peers and teachers at schools, media, health care, and other social sectors. Parents, school and media play the major role in creating awareness about the importance healthy eating habits and physical activity among children.

Introduction5

Discussion6

Causes of Childhood Obesity6

Unhealthy Eating Habits6

Less Active Lifestyle6

Excess Consumption of Beverages7

Leisure Time Activities of Children7

Limited Financial Resources8

Social Effects of Childhood Obesity8

Effects on International Economy8

Effects on the Productivity of Workers9

Obesity and Social Stigmatization9

Discrimination at School10

Discrimination in the Media11

Discrimination in Health Care11

Health Risks of Childhood Obesity12

Psychosocial Disadvantages of Childhood Obesity12

Psychological Problems12

Educational Consequences13

Financial Problems13

Marriage and Sexual Relationship13

Death14

Prevention of Childhood Obesity14

Role of Schools14

Role of Parents15

Role of Government15

Role of the Food Industry16

Conclusion16

References18

The Social Consequences of Childhood Obesity

Introduction

The prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents is a serious threat as it leads to critical health, social, and psychological disadvantages. Childhood obesity not only affects the individuals themselves but it also has certain impacts on the society as well in a number of ways. Overweight children have 70-80% chance of carrying obesity into adulthood (publichealth.lacounty.gov).

Facts show that obesity has increased nearly two times across the globe since 1980. Worldwide, approximately 40 million children below 5 years are obese. Individuals who are obese in early years of life have higher risks of asthma, fractures, hypertension, signs of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, liver problems, psychological problems and disability in future life (WHO, 2011).

In addition to these physical and mental health threats, obese or overweight children are prone to face many social and psychological issues like discrimination, self-esteem problems, poor social skills, unsatisfactory school performance, bullying by other children, hopelessness, so on and so forth. In adult life, obesity is highly likely to affect their education, marital status, economic condition, self-esteem and sexual behavior.

The increase in childhood obesity demonstrates that there is a great threat that our next generation is prone a number of health and social risks as obesity epidemic passes through childhood to adulthood (Lobstein, Baur, Uauy, 2004).

Discussion

Causes of Childhood Obesity

Unhealthy Eating Habits

The major cause of obesity demonstrated by scientific studies is unbalanced diet and extra consumption of food containing carbohydrates and fats, sugar, junk food, and carbonated drinks. Children's preference of eating out in fast-food or other restaurants on eating at home also contribute in the increase in obesity among them.(Rolls, Martin & Tohill, 2004). The increasing frequency of consuming restaurant food is considered to be one of the ...