I have observed that children are getting “bigger”. It is not uncommon to see an eight-year-old who weighs 100 pounds or more.

In Jamaica, more than 11 per cent of children, 10 to 15 years old, and 35 per cent of youths, between 15 and 18 years, have been classified as overweight or obese. The Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey published in 2008 highlighted that in the 15-74 age group, 26.6 per cent were overweight and 25.2 per cent were obese.

Research has shown that obesity in childhood, particularly in adolescence, is a key predictor for obesity in adulthood. Additionally, morbidity and mortality in the adult population is increased in people who were overweight in adolescence, even if they lose the extra weight during adulthood.

Physicians and researchers are also reporting more frequent cases of obesity-related diseases in children, many of whom also suffer from low self-esteem and depression. These include type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, asthma, sleep apnoea, and hypertension.

THE PROBLEM

The consumption of too many calorie- laden, nutrient-poor foods and drinks as well as fewer opportunities for active play at school and at home are just a few of the contributing factors. Many of our housing schemes are filled with houses built to the outer limits of the land with little or no yard space for children to play.

Children also frequently consume unhealthy foods at school, as some school cafeterias provide an overabundance of sugar-laden drinks and junk foods. Additionally, more meals are eaten outside the home because of the availability of inexpensive fast food with large portion sizes.

TIPS

1. Start right by breastfeeding. This reduces a child’s risk for obesity later in life.

2. Encourage your children to drink water. Serve water instead of a sweet drink at the end of a meal. Place water instead of juice in your toddler’s bottle or cup.

3. Do not keep unhealthy foods in the house. If these foods are not in your home, your child cannot snack on them. Neither can you!

4. Encourage physical activity at school and at home.

5. Do not use food as a reward or as punishment. Do not offer candy as a bribe for good behavior or withhold a particular food as punishment for bad behaviour.

6. Be a good role model. Children eat in the same way that their parents do.

7. Do not watch television while eating. Eat meals together as a family. Research in adults has demonstrated that watching television while eating leads to more food being eaten, as some people tend to mindlessly shovel food into their mouths – leading to overeating.

8. Support your child. Overweight/obese children frequently feel bad about themselves. They are frequently the subject of cruel remarks. Do not add to their burden by making derogatory remarks about their weight. Children need to know that they are loved and appreciated no matter how much they weigh.

9. Consult your child’s physician.

Managing childhood obesity can be especially challenging for children who are coping with an array of complicated and confusing messages and issues. It is up to the parents and loved ones to guide them through these issues, and help them to live healthier lives.

Dr Jacqueline E Campbell is a university lecturer and family physician. She is the author of the book A patient’s guide to the treatment of diabetes mellitus.