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      Childhood obesity is a worldwide public health concern that has been increasing rapidly over the past few decades. This epidemic has been leading to significant health implications for individuals as they reach adulthood. Childhood obesity leading into adulthood not only will cause struggles with weight management it can also cause several complications with chronic disease, or even causing mental harm. As a society it is urgent to educate on how to prevent childhood obesity and address the issue early on as it can affect one's quality of life.

            According to the Mayo Clinic "obesity is a disease involving an excessive amount of body fat". How obesity is diagnosed today is by calculating BMI or body mass index. Not everyone is created equal as a BMI does consider gender, age and height. Today the BMI for an average adult woman is 26.5 and for the average adult man it is 26.6, which can translate to 150 to 180 pounds. (CDC-Obesity) For children at the age of 10, the typical weight for girls and boys is roughly 55 to 107 pounds (Average height and weight for 10-year-olds). Over the past ten years, obesity rates have climbed in America alone. In the recent years it has been determined by Trust for America's Health that "four in ten American adults have obesity" (Fuemmeler et al.), and for children it has tripled and "one in six children have been diagnosed with obesity" (Child obesity). Obesity is in fact a growing problem within the United States.

            Obesity has brought a number of negative health effects for adults such as heart disease or more commonly the risk of diabetes. Children who suffer from obesity into adulthood are more prone to abnormal sleep patterns, unregular physical strain, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and suffer more from self-confidence and mental illness issues. The cause of childhood obesity has many contributors and risk factors; a leading example of this would be family life, and that "Children with two obese parents are ten to twelve times more likely to be obese". (Parental obesity…traits and weight.) Another factor is the cost of food, and in an American society where food is glorified, unhealthy foods are usually the cheaper option. It is common knowledge and a running joke within media, that when a child passes by a McDonalds, they are going to beg or cry for it. With most fast-food places offering a value menu, it is an easy choice to say yes to. Low income has also been a contributing factor, that parents may cook what's affordable, not necessarily healthy, and that the fear of not having another meal may cause overeating.

            Prevention early on for childhood obesity is key to solving this epidemic, and it starts by instilling and promoting healthy habits. Education should be offered to parents and family on proper nutrition and there should be more access to affordable healthy food options. One habit most would hear from multiple organizations or clinics is healthy eating habits and following proper nutrition guidelines. As mentioned, it is easy to pull over into a drive through and be on the go with fast food. For many, parents would use food as a reward system for kids, and even though it may promote good behavior, and with the right foods it could be a great idea, but it still is glorifying unhealthy foods, and causing unhealthy relationships with food. An example of this could be a weekly baseball game, where after each practice or win the team would go out for burgers and ice cream. This can trigger the thought "If I do what I deem as good, I can eat whatever I want". Now it is okay to indulge occasionally, but moderation is key.

            Once nutrition and healthy eating habits are promoted, the next step is to increase and normalize exercise, which can form a powerful duo against childhood obesity. Once again it is up to parents and family to involve themselves in creating this healthy habit. Regular physical activity can maintain a healthy BMI and it can also enforce positivity. Children who engage in activities such as sports and exercise are at a much lower risk of obesity led health issues and can prevent chronic illnesses into adulthood. As mentioned, family support is needed to help guide children and they can lead by example by incorporating healthy habits in their routine as well. Families can do this by setting up outdoor activities, or even enrolling their children into sports via school or by community centers. By instilling more physical routines, it can set up a foundation for a better lifestyle.