Economic considerations in treating overweight youth

Research suggests that children from low-income households are particularly at risk for pediatric obesity. In treating these youth, practitioners must understand the unique obstacles to making health-related behavioral changes. Both limited access and cost of many foods high in nutritive value are prohibitive for many families. Furthermore, the poor safety of neighborhoods preclude walking programs and the limited access or excessive cost of other physical activity options also present barriers. It is critical for practitioners to understand the potential economic barriers that may limit success in treating overweight patients, and this article presents some options that circumvent these barriers.