Prevention Programs for Teen Obesity

Childhood obesity is a problem that has long-term consequences. Children̵7;s obesity is determined using the body mass index, which uses a person's age, sex, and height and weight to estimate body fat. Those who are above the 95th percentile are considered obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These children are at increased risk for Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, joint problems, high blood pressure and social and psychological issues. To combat childhood obesity, several prevention programs are available.

  1. Center for Healthy Weight, California

    • Researchers and care providers at Stanford University School of Medicine and Lucile Packard Children̵7;s Hospital at Stanford in Palo Alto, California, have developed a program to serve teens regardless of age, sex or weight. They work with the kids, the family and the community in developing a plan to help the teen achieve and maintain a healthful body weight. Ongoing support occurs through self-referred classroom-type programs and an outpatient medical and psychological evaluation that requires a doctor̵7;s referral. It also offers teen bariatric surgery to those who qualify.

    Cincinnati Children̵7;s, Ohio

    • The people at Cincinnati Children̵7;s take teen obesity prevention seriously. They have put together a six-week program called Fun & Fit that has a health curriculum to teach and support teens in healthy eating habits and maintaining an active life. During six sessions, teens are taught about good nutrition, what constitutes an active lifestyle and how to change habits and behaviors to support them.

    Seattle Children's Obesity Program

    • Seattle Children̵7;s hospital has a nationally recognized obesity program for teens and younger kids. It deals with obesity prevention, treatment, research, clinical care and community advocacy. It also focuses on the teen̵7;s health to prevent diabetes and other obesity-related illnesses. It works hand-in-hand with numerous community organizations to reach as many teens as possible.

    Nourish Interactive, Online

    • Nourish Interactive is a website designed to teach kids and young teens about nutrition and how to make healthy food choices. It uses online games to teach about nourishing foods and active lifestyles. It offers daily food tips, recipes, meal planning and how to calculate BMI. Although this might not be for older teens, a lot of good information can be found for younger teens, parents and teachers.

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