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The problem of obesity in the United States has grown considerably in recent years. Between 16 and 33 percent of children and adolescents are obese. Obesity is among the easiest medical conditions to recognize but most difficult to treat.
Unhealthy weight gain due to poor diet and lack of exercise is responsible for over 300,000 deaths each year. Overweight teens are much more likely to become overweight adults unless they adopt and maintain healthier patterns of eating and exercise. |
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What causes obesity?
- Poor eating habits overeating or binging
- Lack of exercise (i.e., couch potato kids)
- Family history of obesity
- Medical illnesses (endocrine, neurological problems)
- Medications (steroids, some psychiatric medications)
- Stressful life events or changes (separations, divorce, moves, deaths, abuse)
- Family and peer problems
- Low self-esteem
- Depression or other emotional problems
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What are risks and complications of obesity?
There are many risks and complications with obesity. Physical
consequences include:
- Increased risk of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Breathing problems
- Trouble sleeping
Teens who suffer obesity have increased risk of emotional problems. Teens with weight problems tend to have much lower self-esteem and be less popular with their peers. Depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder can also occur.
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How can obesity be managed and treated?
Obese teens need a thorough medical evaluation by a pediatrician or family physician to consider the possibility of a physical cause. In the absence of a physical disorder, the only way to lose weight is to reduce the number of calories being eaten and to increase the adolescent's level of physical activity.
The Lap band in teens offers great chances of successful weight loss control for the adolescent. It is proven to be a safe and effective procedure.
The less invasive aproach that laparascopic procedures offer is one of it's major advantages, since the teen is not exposed to any major surgical operation at such young age and allows to go back to normal activities such as school or sports.
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