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Childhood obesity is emerging as a significant health concern, with experts highlighting its potential long-term effects on health. With a substantial portion of the population falling within younger age groups, the trend of increasing childhood obesity in India poses serious risks that could extend into adulthood.
Experts emphasize that childhood obesity can lead to a host of health problems later in life, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, joint pain, and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Daksh Sethi, a Consultant in Minimal and Bariatric and Robotic Surgery at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, points out that obese children are more likely to become obese adults, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue early.
Dr. Sethi advocates for school-based initiatives similar to those in the U.S., where schools monitor Body Mass Index (BMI) monthly and engage with families to manage obesity. He suggests adopting similar practices in India to track and address childhood obesity more effectively.
Lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise, are essential for managing and preventing obesity. For more severe cases, bariatric surgery might be considered, especially for older children or those with specific health conditions.
Dr. Jyoti Kusnur, a Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Manipal Hospital Goa, warns about the impact of early adulthood weight gain on heart health. She explains that excess weight can lead to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders, contributing to plaque buildup in arteries and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Dr. Kusnur emphasizes the importance of regular health check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. She advocates for a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of harmful habits to mitigate these risks.
Overall, experts agree that early intervention, lifestyle changes, and proactive health monitoring are key to managing and preventing the long-term health effects of childhood obesity.
