Childhood Obesity has become an epidemic in America. Although it seems that the main concern with obesity is about external appearances, the true problem lies with the health problems associated with it. According to the CDC, obesity can lead to heart disease, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and some forms of cancer. Found in all age groups from two year old children to 50 year old men and women, obesity has been linked to everything from the popularity of computers and video games, to the decline of family dinners, to super sized portions of fast food.(Childhood Obesity: Causes and Prevention) .
Technology is one of the main causes of obesity. Media promotes all forms of obesity. Scientists are not sure whether it is the sedentary nature of television viewing, food consumption in front of the television, food advertising, or a combination of them all that promotes obesity (Finan, 14). Obviously, obesity is lowest among children who watch less television and greater for those who watch more television. Everyday millions of children sit in front of the television. Barney baby sits children everyday. The sedentary forms of entertainment available to children today are slowly killing them. .
Children and teens are exposed to hundreds of food commercials. Sitting and watching these commercials promotes snacking, and snacking promotes obesity (Childhood Obesity: Causes and Prevention). People who spend a significant amount of time watching TV sharply increase the risk for obesity. Instead of sending an overweight child out to run and play, adults allow them to sit and eat. Homework is the number one excuse for parent on why their child has no time for exercise has also helped to increase obesity (Your child's weight, 9). The combination of homework and television along with low levels of activity is a predominant cause of obesity. When a person eats and has a low level of physical activity they are ultimately determined to have a lifetime struggle with obesity.
