The issue I have chosen to discuss is the danger of obesity among children. This is an issue that is not widely discussed but one that needs to be addressed due to the negative health implications associated with being obese. According to the World Health Organization's World Heath Report in 2002: Reducing Risks, Promoting Healthy Life, obesity is one of the top ten leading health hazards. The report shows obesity rates for children have surged dramatically in the past two decades in North America, with the United States being the international leader.
The evidence for this national epidemic is clear: at least one out of every five children in the United States is obese. According to Dr. Marie Grace in her article entitled Childhood Obesity, she states "Childhood obesity has increased since the 1960's by 54% among children ages 6-11 and 39% among children 12-17 years of age." This is a truly staggering statistic. Obesity is a disease because it could potentially lead to major health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. It also can account for psychological problems, such as depression and low self-esteem. Obese children are ridiculed and teased by their peers. In adolescence, many overweight young people will have developed a negative self-image that may carry on into adulthood. It is essential we focus attention on this growing problem. Obesity is too large a problem to ignore. .
There are many different arguments with the issue of obesity in children. One argument is that overweight children typically lead sedentary lifestyles. Television, computer and video games contribute to children's inactive lifestyles. These kids need to spend more time doing what they do best: running around and playing. Also, early education is very important, especially when it comes to nutrition. It is imperative children are taught at an early age how to eat right. With parents" busy schedules, it may be easy to stop by a local fast food restaurant and pick up something, but these are just empty calories that provide very little nutritional value.
