Obesity

The definition of obesity is difficult to establish and most consider that greater than the 90th percentile for weight is appropriate.Eighty percent of normal weight cjildren are obese as adults.There are many health risks related to obesity including orthopedic problems, amenorrhea, growth delay, glucose intolerance, and elevated blood pressure and cholesterol.

                Only about 5 percent of case of obesity are related to endocrine and other medical conditions.Genetic, psychological, and environmental conditions account for most of the development and continuation of obesity.Many children have obese parents and their food consumption is greater and activity level less than non-obese children.

                Management involves behavioral modification which is more likely to succed if there is parental involvement, reduced calorie intake over a long period of time, and an exercise program.