A healthy childhood is considered the basic foundation for building a better future. This is why health experts recommend giving nutritious food to children regularly, sending them out to play, and taking care of their mental health. In many studies, health experts have been expressing concern about the problem of increasing obesity in children. Overweight or obese children are not only at risk of many health problems, but this childhood problem can also reduce their lifespan.
Health experts say that the problem of obesity in children can not only raise serious health concerns but it is also considered challenging for the future in many ways. Medical reports show that obese children may have a higher risk of developing many chronic diseases than children with normal weight.
A study conducted to understand the side effects of obesity at an early age found that this problem can also cause premature death.
The problem of obesity in children is dangerous.
A report shows that more than 880 million people around the world suffer from obesity. More than 160 million of these people are aged five to 19. These numbers are constantly increasing, due to which obesity is growing as an 'epidemic' among the younger generation.
Health experts say that no matter what the reason is responsible for obesity, it can be a condition that increases many health complications. Childhood obesity can hurt overall health, including heart disease, diabetes, and liver diseases in adolescence.
The risk of heart disease increases at a young age
The problem of overweight or obesity is known as a major risk factor for heart disease. Due to excess weight, the body has to work harder to keep blood circulation right. Apart from this, obesity is also considered to promote heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure (hypertension) and high cholesterol.
A study conducted in the year 2023 related to this found that children with high BMI are 40% more likely to have heart disease in adulthood. Heart diseases are considered to be one of the leading causes of death globally.
Increases the risk of diabetes
The problem of both heart disease and diabetes is increasing rapidly all over the world. The problem of obesity at a young age can increase both these diseases in the future.
Health experts say that obesity can cause insulin resistance, due to which the level of glucose in the body starts increasing very fast. Research shows that children suffering from obesity are more likely to develop diabetes than children with low BMI.
It is worth noting that the problem of diabetes can also cause heart disease. Apart from this, the risk of complications like kidney disease, weakening of eyesight, and damage to nerves can also be high.
Obesity can reduce life expectancy.
Childhood obesity not only increases the risk of chronic diseases, but it can also reduce your life expectancy. A related study conducted by Swedish scientists has shown that childhood obesity can double the risk of death before the age of 55.
In this report published in the New England Journal of Medicine, experts have emphasized making efforts to reduce obesity in people of all ages, including children.
(PC: Freepik)
