Persuasive Essay On Obesity In Children

According to the World Health Organisation, childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health concerns of the 21st century [1]. Obesity can occur for various reasons including food choices, a lack of physical activity and genetics. Ultimately an individual with obesity consumes more kilojoules then they expend over a period of time and has a body mass index (BMI) over 30 [2]. If the current trend continues it is predicted that 65% of Australian children will be obese or overweight by 2020 [3]. Obesity in children is a major health concern as studies have shown it increases the risk of other diet related disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It can also cause psychological damage from discrimination, victimisation and bullying [4]. Obese individuals are likely to have low self-esteem which may interfere with their ability to develop friendships [3]. The increase in childhood obesity has become a controversial topic with many debating the extent of the impact parents have on the health of their children.
Parents are the primary role models for their children and are solely responsible for what they consume. Researchers from Science Live found that parents who
Children are targeted through the media via various sources of advertising such as celebrity endorsement, television advertising, marketing on the internet, product placement, sponsorship of sporting teams and branding on toys or clothing [11]. Companies promoting unhealthy food have made their products desirable to kids through toys and the use of bright colours. A number of studies have disturbingly shown that two to six year olds can recognise familiar brand names, packaging, logos and characters and associate them with products [12]. Many children fall into the media’s trap, eating unhealthy food without thinking or knowing about the