by Caroline St Clare

Created on: March 15, 2010

Every school had a fat kid. He was the one puffing along in last place at the school sports day or standing out like a sore thumb in the playground. But not any more. Nowadays he blends in as the norm. 

Childhood obesity is a rising epidemic on a scale not seen in previous generations. Children are the future and if we don’t tackle the causes of obesity soon, today’s younger generation run the risk of dying before their parents.

The statistics are alarming. In the US, a study found that of 80% of children who were overweight aged 10-15, were obese adults at the age of 25. In the UK, one in five 11-year olds is clinically obese with one in 10 children classed as obese by the age of five. These figures are shocking because we’re not only putting their health at risk, but their lives too.

Contributing factors are linked to the sedentary lifestyle of today’s children combined with a diet consisting of junk food and sugary drinks. Children are often driven to school and back, depriving them of valuable walking exercise. Their leisure time is spent playing computer games, watching TV, or interacting with friends on social networking sites instead of getting out and about and being active.

So what are the main risks associated with obesity in children?

Type II Diabetes

Type II diabetes was once mainly found in middle-aged adults. However, it’s now becoming more common amongst children and it’s connected to the rising obesity levels.  If left untreated, the sufferer is exposed to further diabetes associated health risks such as eye, foot and skin complications. By following an effective diet and exercise program, the effects of type II diabetes can be reversed. 

Cardiovascular Problems:

This includes problems such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both linked to heart disease.  By making a concentrated effort to lose weight by cutting out junk food and sugary drinks, these risks can be greatly reduced.

Increased Risk of Cancer

Obesity increases the risk of cancers of the colon, breast, uterus, kidney and oesophagus.  Body fat produces hormones and growth factors such as oestrogen and insulin, both of which can increase the risk of cancer. Obese children are also less likely to eat recommended portions of fruit and vegetables, thereby missing out on vital nutrients that can help protect against cancer.

Psychological Problems

If children find they’re subject to teasing or bullying because of

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