Childhood Obesity as One of the Most Serious Issues of the Present World - Essay Example

It is a serious condition, which causes many health problems as well as psychological problems for children not only in their childhood but also in adulthood. Lack of self-confidence is one of the major psychological effects of obesity on children. In addition, obese children do not find it easy to make friends because they are afraid of the comments that other children often pass on to them.

On the other hand, some of the most common health risks of childhood obesity revealed through various types of research include joint pains, high levels of cholesterol, heart problems, and high blood pressure. Smith (1999) states, “Obese people do not live as long as other people” (p. 5). Some other physical problems include the inability to play games that require physical exertion and a decrease in stamina. There are various causes of childhood obesity. Some of the main causes include a lack of focus on physical exercises, genetics, and improper diet (Parizkova & Hills, 2005).

Another cause of childhood obesity is poor nutritional habits. Researches prove that almost 45 percent of obese children in the United States eat snacks and junk foods instead of taking a balanced diet. The poor diet choice of such children increases the level of fat in their bodies making them overweight as compared to other children of their age who take a balanced diet daily. Moreover, some children like to play video games instead of playing such games, which require physical exertion. This trend in such children also leads to obesity.

There exist some effective ways to control this medical problem. It can be controlled by taking a balanced diet, doing physical exercises, and participating in social activities. Parents and teachers hold the responsibility to educate children about the effects of obesity to make them take a balanced diet. Children should play more and more physical games instead of playing internet games. Moreover, medicines and surgery can also play a good role in helping obese children reduce their body weight.

Summing it up, obesity creates many health and psychological risks for children. It is the responsibility of parents to create awareness about obesity among their children to help them keep away from the most obvious causes of obesity. Parents also need to make their children take part in physical activities to make them strong and healthy.