Obesity
Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition that affects children and adolescents. It's particularly troubling because the extra pounds often start children on the path to health problems that were once considered adult problems — diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
BMI > 23 means child is overweight and BMI > 27 means child is Obese.
Pediatric overweight and obesity is associated with several co morbidities including:
- Prediabetes/type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)
- Dyslipidemia
- Prehypertension/ hypertension
- Sleep apnea
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Proteinuria and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
- Subclinical atherosclerosis
- Hyperandrogenemia/polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Slipped capital femoral epiphysis
- Cardiovascular complications
Obesity is increasing becoming a major health problem in children due to lack of physical activity and increased exposure to internet and online gaming.
We will advise you on optimal healthy dietary changes and lifestyle modifications to aid the child from gaining excessive weight. There are very specific conditions in children who may require medications in severe cases with complications.