children s health issues
Obesity in Adolescents
Introduction
Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than the 95th percentile for age and gender. Although genetics and some disorders cause obesity, most adolescent obesity results from a lack of physical activity and consuming more calories than needed for activity level. The diagnosis is based on a BMI at or over the 95th percentile for age and gender. Eating a nutritious diet and increasing exercise help treat obesity, and some children may be given medication for weight loss or weight-loss surgery. Obesity is defined by the Obesity (BMI). Adolescents whose BMI is in the top 5% for their age and gender are considered to have obesity. Being in the top 5% means their BMI is higher than 95% of their peers (at or over the 95th percentile). Obesity is twice as common among adolescents as it was 30 years ago. Although most of the complications of obesity occur in adulthood, adolescents with obesity are more likely than their peers to have high blood pressure and Despite many treatment approaches, obesity is one of the most difficult problems to treat, and long-term success rates remain low. (See also Introduction to Problems in Adolescents .) 