4.3 Causes 2
4.3.1 Who’s to blame
4.4 Effects of Obesity 2
4.4.1 Physical Effects 2
4.4.2 Emotional Effects 2
4.5 Initiatives 2
5.0 Conclusion 2
6.0 Bibliography 3
7.0 Appendix 4
7.0.1 Appendix A – Statistical Data on Differences in Age i
7.0.2 Appendix B - Statistical Data on Differences in Countries ii
- Terms of Reference
The research was undertaken to provide information on childhood obesity. As a preparation for nursing student the author wished to provide the reader with information on childhood obesity Research was also undertaken to allow the author to complete a Communication (3/4) Module, which is part of the preparation for nursing course, Reid Kerr College. The report was completed for the 21st November 2008.
- Introduction
The report will provide the reader with clear information on childhood obesity and will also highlight the scale of the problem. The report will provide the reader with information on the statistics in both U.K and U.S.A, the causes, who’s to blame for the problem and the effects it has on the children.
- Procedures
- Internet Research
- Library Research
- Findings
- Definition of Obesity
Obesity is a condition where weight gain has got to the point that it poses as a threat to health by the imbalance of food intake and output and to the mass of large amounts of body fat. It is measured in terms of a person’s body mass index (BMI) which is determined by weight for a given height, The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines overweight as a BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 kg and obesity as a BMI of 30.0kg or more.
- Statistical Evidence
Information regarding obesity in children 12 to 60 months old was available from 50 Countries. Obesity was defined as more than two standard deviations above the advised amount, using the international population recommended by WHO.
- Differences in Age
Estimates show that some 8.5% of 6 year olds and 15% of 15 year olds are obese in the UK. In a table shown in the Postnote magazine it shows that on average girls are more likely to be overweight than boys and also girls are more likely to be obese. (See appendix 1 for statistical data)
- Differences in Countries
Research shows a variety of statistics about obesity. 11% of children are obese in the USA (World Heart Federation Fact Sheet 2002). (See appendix 2 for statistical data)
- Differences in Times
More than two-thirds of Americans are overweight and 30 percent suffer from obesity this percentage has doubled over the past 30 years. In the UK the number of overweight and obese children has risen steadily over the past 20 years.
- Causes
Obesity occurs when an individual takes in more energy than they use up, although some people are at risk through genes. The rise in obesity has been too speedy to be b lamed on genetic factors.
- Who’s to Blame
A large proportion of TV advertising which is made for children’s views is on processed foods, most of them promoting food which is high in fat, sugar and salt. Foodaware has called for measures to prevent advertising on these kinds of foods on children’s TV but also in places such as schools, clubs and on websites used mostly by children.
4.4 Effects
Childhood obesity can have an effect on a child’s overall health and can develop into long-term illnesses such as Type 2 Diabetes, coronary heart disease and an increase in some cancers.
4.4.1 Physical Effects
Physical inactive pastimes such as watching TV or playing computer games should be limited to 2 hours per day the equivalent of 14 hours per week. You should encourage children to only concentrate on the TV programmes they really enjoy and be selective about what they watch and for how long.
4.4.2 Emotional Effects
Food should not be used to comfort a child in its place should be hugs, give them attention and listen to what they have to say. It should not be used as a reward either as an alternative buy a gift or go to the cinema.
4.5 Initiatives
Nutrition and Healthy lifestyles should be addressed in schools and also in general. All primary schools are expected to teach food preparation, cooking and hygiene as it forms part of the National Curriculum up to ages 11. All 4-6 year olds in primary schools are entitled to a free piece of fruit every day. A School Travel Advisory Group publishes guidance to encourage children to walk or cycle to school in the morning. Parents are advised not to put their children on a diet but to try and maintain their weight so that they can gradually grow into it as they get taller. Parents should just try and get their children to eat a healthy, well balanced diet and increase their physical activities.
- Conclusion
The main aim of the report was to provide the reader with information on childhood obesity. Childhood obesity has risen steadily over the last 20 years in the UK and by 50 percent in the USA over the last 30 years.
The report has highlighted the differences in age of the children, countries and over the years. There are many dangers in obesity which put the child’s health at risk.
Bibliography
17/11/08
- Statistics for obesity 17/11/08
17/11/08
Appendix
Appendix A - Statistical Data on Differences in Age
Appendix B - Statistical Data on Differences in Countries
