Childhood Obesity And Child Abuse Essay

Olethia Curry
Professor Benjamin
English 112
November 10, 2013
Childhood Obesity: Is It A Form of Child Abuse? Childhood obesity is a huge problem in the United States. It is known as a serious medical condition that causes other medical problems. Obesity is generally caused by genetics, certain illnesses, and uncontrolled behavior or overeating. According to the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), “Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States. It affects more than 30 percent of children, on making it the most chronic disease of childhood.” Childhood obesity has become a controversial topic because some people would like to know when do parents become responsible for this condition. Childhood obesity should be a form of
According to Salynn Boyles from WebMD states, “Obesity affects a child’s health and put them on a path for developing many health issues as they get older.” Some of these medical conditions are heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, and sleep apnea. It also affects them mentally and emotionally. Heart disease causes high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If it is left untreated it can lead to a stroke or heart attack. Type 2 Diabetes is generally caused by just a poor diet, and can often be reversed by eating the right foods and exercising. Asthma occurs when there is excess weight that put too much pressure on the lungs, which causes breathing problems. Sleep apnea occurs due to the extra weight in the body that causes snoring and abnormal breathing when the child is sleeping. And the emotional and mental issue takes place because obese children are often picked on and bullied. This causes depression and very low self-esteem. These are some very serious conditions that should not be ignored. Parent who have been counselled regarding their children obesity should be held responsible for their children excess weight gain, especially if they are fully aware of their medical conditions but still choose to be neglectful. This is a form of child
Parents need to set-up an activity schedule that would be beneficial to their children as well as for themselves. There are several ways that physical activities can be approached. Signing up for a favorite sport can help energize their children to exercise. This would help them get the proper physical activity while enjoying their sport. According to Sharon Denny from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics states, “Sports participation helps to reduce the risk of obesity in children. Most studies find that children who participate in sports have a lower body mass index (BMI) than those who are not active in sports.” Parents can also participate in physical activities with their children. They can do family outings such as, walking, riding bikes, football, basketball, swimming, etc. These activities will allow the entire family to stay fit. Physical activity keeps everyone healthy from the outside as well as the inside of their bodies. Parents who have obese children and do not allow their children to be physically active are being very neglectful towards their physical