Chronic diseases in childhood obesity: risks and benefits of early intervention. Preface.

摘要

Although the overall health status of the pediatric population in the United States has improved, the last quarter century has witnessed a dramatic rise in the prevalence of childhood obesity and its associated comorbid conditions. Specifically, the medical community is witnessing a steady and alarming rise in the prevalence of chronic diseases among obese children, including diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease.