Overview
Overweight in children is a growing health concern worldwide, including in Korea. It refers to children carrying excess body weight for their age and height, which can affect their physical health, emotional well-being, and development. Korean healthcare professionals focus on early intervention and family-based approaches to prevent and manage overweight in children effectively.
What is Overweight in Children?
Overweight in children is defined using body mass index (BMI) percentiles adjusted for age and sex. Children with a BMI between the 85th and 95th percentile are considered overweight. Excess body fat in children can lead to various health problems and may increase the risk of obesity in adulthood.
Symptoms
Overweight children may experience:
- Rapid weight gain compared to peers
- Difficulty participating in physical activities
- Shortness of breath during exercise
- Joint or muscle pain
- Low self-esteem and social difficulties
Causes
Causes of overweight in children include:
- Poor dietary habits with high-calorie, low-nutrient foods
- Sedentary lifestyle with limited physical activity
- Genetic predisposition to weight gain
- Family environment and eating behaviors
- Psychological factors such as stress or emotional eating
Risk Factors
Risk factors contributing to overweight in children are:
- Family history of obesity or metabolic diseases
- Excessive screen time and lack of exercise
- Unhealthy eating patterns, including frequent fast food consumption
- Socioeconomic factors affecting access to healthy foods and activities
- Hormonal or medical conditions in rare cases
Complications
Overweight children are at risk for:
- Early development of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance
- High blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels
- Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
- Psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and bullying
- Increased risk of adult obesity and associated diseases
Prevention
Preventing overweight in children involves:
- Encouraging balanced nutrition with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Promoting regular physical activity and limiting screen time
- Family education on healthy lifestyle habits
- Routine growth and weight monitoring by pediatricians
- School and community programs supporting healthy behaviors
Treatment Options in Korea
In Korea, treatment for overweight children includes:
- Nutritional counseling: Tailored diet plans for children and family involvement
- Physical activity programs: Age-appropriate exercise routines and sports participation
- Behavioral therapy: Support for healthy eating and lifestyle changes
- Medical evaluation: Screening for underlying conditions contributing to weight gain
- Multidisciplinary approach: Coordination among pediatricians, dietitians, psychologists, and educators
Korean healthcare providers emphasize early intervention and family-centered care to help children achieve healthy growth and prevent long-term health problems related to overweight.
