Childhood Health Issues

An obesity epidemic threatens to wipe out other improvements in children's health and safety over the past three decades. Childhood obesity has risen to a point that it can be considered a modern day epidemic, according to Duke University researchers. About 15.6 percent of American children between 12 and 19 were obese in 2002, up from 6.1 percent in 1974, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What is more unnerving is that most cases of child obesity are preventable.

In my practice I see children as young as 18 months old. What is startling is that many of the children, under the age of 14, already have well established weight problems. And yet, parents do not even see it as a health issue. In fact, most parents do not see the relationship between obesity and most of the childhood disorders that are presented to me. Most of the childhood disorders that I treat are related to: allergies, sinusitis, skin rashes, eczema, sleeping disorders and anxiety or depression. Obesity tends to make all of these disorders much worse.

Parents are surprised to discover that the child’s diet is not only responsible for the obesity problem, but their health problems, as well. A lot of what I do, in addition to their treatments, is educating parents and children on how their lifestyle has contributed to their obesity problem and the other health issues of their child. Lifestyle is more than just diet. It also entails exercise, and parents providing a positive example for the children to live by. Children respond very quickly, when parents work with me to help their children get and stay well.

If you suspect your child has a weight problem or other health concern, call today, to schedule a consutation.