Child Obesity: Advancing Effective Prevention and Treatment. An Overview for Health Professionals

摘要

The purpose of this document is to present an overview of pediatric overweight and to discuss the many facets of this condition and possible solutions. Issues to be considered in this paper include current prevalence and trends, contributing factors, economic considerations, and treatment and prevention efforts. An overview of evaluated treatment programs and other available interventions and resources is presented. Finally, a summary of key issues regarding pediatric overweight is provided, including: Support of social marketing and other communications efforts; development of unique intervention programs for specific populations; investigation of factors that determine and reinforce youth health behavioral choices; application of appropriate technology to promote healthy weight; support of the role of healthcare providers in primary prevention; investigation of the role of physical activity in weight loss and maintenance; recruitment and retention of participants into community and worksite programs; investigation of social stigma and discrimination associated with overweight.