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Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
[Childhood obesity--assessment, prevention and treatment]
Gal Dubnov-Raz1, Elliot M Berry, Naama W Constantini
1Exercise, Nutrition and Lifestyle Clinic, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. gal.dubnov-raz@sheba.health.gov.il
Insights
Pediatric overweight and obesity rates are increasing in Israel, necessitating prompt intervention. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes focusing on healthy eating, physical activity, and reduced screen time are crucial for prevention and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Nutrition Science
Context:
- Rising rates of pediatric overweight and obesity in Israel mirror global trends.
- Undiagnosed cases are common without objective height and weight measurements.
- Urgent action is required from government, healthcare providers, and families.
Purpose:
- To review recommendations for assessing, preventing, and treating pediatric overweight and obesity.
- To highlight the importance of objective measurement in diagnosing childhood obesity.
- To provide guidance based on established health organization guidelines.
Summary:
- Effective pediatric obesity management involves a healthy lifestyle: balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and limited screen time.
- Prevention and treatment strategies are largely consistent across different approaches.
- Objective measurement of height and weight is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Impact:
- Emphasizes the need for continuous education for medical personnel and parents on childhood obesity.
- Advocates for practical tools to facilitate lifestyle modifications in children.
- Addresses the critical challenge of treating and preventing pediatric obesity through collaborative efforts.
Abstract:
As in other parts of the western world, the rates of pediatric overweight and obesity are also rising in Israel. This fact warrants immediate action by several government offices and health care providers, and also by the trinity of physician, parent(s) and child. An overweight child is likely to remain undiagnosed if relying on observation alone, unless height and weight are objectively measured by the caring medical staff. This review is based on recommendations on the assessment, prevention, and treatment of children and youth who are overweight and obese, recently published on behalf of the American Medical Association and additional health organizations. In general, preventing and treating pediatric obesity is fairly similar: adhering to a healthy lifestyle which emphasizes healthy food choices and habits, regular physical activity, and limiting screen time. Treating and preventing obesity is a timely, but extremely difficult task. Medical personnel and parents should be continuously educated in this field, while supplied with practical tools for childhood lifestyle modification.
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