Teen Obesity

Rates of obesity have increased dramatically in recent decades for Americans of all ages according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The percent of children and teens who are overweight is also growing. Among teens ages 12 to 19, 18 percent are obese, according to the 2008 data. This is triple the proportion of overweight youth in 1980.

Furthermore, data suggests that 30 percent children and teens ages 6 to 19 are overweight.



What is Obesity?  |  Health Issues Related to Obesity

What is Obesity?

Obesity is an excessive accumulation of body fat such that individuals are over 20 percent heavier than their ideal body weight. Obesity is a common eating disorder associated with adolescence.

"Overweight" is defined as having any excess weight outside of the ideal range. 



Although children have fewer weight-related health problems than adults, overweight children are at high risk of becoming overweight adolescents and adults. Overweight people of all ages are prone to a number of health problems.
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Health Issues Related to Obesity

Some health issues associated with obesity include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and some forms of cancer. 



Obesity can weaken physical health and well-being, resulting in a shortened life expectancy. It can also lead to social disabilities and unhappiness, which may cause stress and heighten risk of mental illness.

Studies suggest that overweight children are more likely to be involved in bullying — both as victims and as perpetrators of teasing, name-calling and physical bullying — than normal weight children. .



The development of a personal identity and body image is an important goal for adolescents. Your parents, physician and teachers can help you. If you think you are overweight, talk to a trusted adult about what you can do to improve your health.


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