Overview of the Topic: Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is one of the most critical public health issues in the United States today. Over the past 30 years, the frequency of overweight children, defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than the 85th percentile for age and sex has tripled (Miller, Rosenbloom, & Silverstein, 2004). Over 30 percent of all American children are overweight or obese and obesity has become a problem with long-term, life altering effects that persist into young adulthood and middle age. In fact, research suggests that obesity in young adults decreases life expectancy by 5 to 20 years, that pediatric obesity-related hospital costs have increased threefold during the past 20 years, and that the increased frequency and severity of childhood obesity is accompanied by medical complications such as impaired glucose tolerance, increased risk for heart disease, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia (Miller, et al, 2004).

In identifying the research for this critical thinking assignment, a key article delineating the problem with respect to effective interventions targeting obese and overweight children and their families was selected: Tyler and Horner (2008) offered a research study identifying an intervention process that was designed to assist low-income families and their overweight children in improving weight related behaviors. Four additional empirical studies were identified that also focused on this particular issue, the issue of obesity prevention and intervention. By narrowing

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portance of early intervention in cases where children are identified as either overweight or obese or at risk for developing these health conditions. Similarly, the studies in general also support the importance of a school-based intervention that also includes family participation. The role of parents in creating the kind of environment in which children develop healthy exercise and eating patterns is emphasized in the literature; Tyler and Horner (2008) as well as Wang, et al (2008) and Johnston, et al (2007) recognize the importance of engaging parents in developing the kind of behaviors and lifestyle choices that facilitate good health in general and a reduction in overweight and obesity in particular. The next section of this critical thinking project will focus on identifying key elements within the article by Tyler and Horner (2008). Evaluation of the Key Research Study Evaluation of the Problem Statement The problem statement presented by Tyler and Horner (2008, p. 263) was, "It is imperative that healthcare providers in all settings intervene with children and their families to manage children's weight to alleviate long-term health consequences." This statement is linked to a brief discussion provided by Tyl

Category: Medical - C