Causes and Risks of Obesity in Children

Obesity in children has been increasing in the United States, childhood obesity has negative long- and short-term effects on health. It is important to recognize the risk factors and causes behind childhood obesity to provide prevention methods. Diet and physical inactivity are leading risk factors that can be attributed to various other issues such as environment and social economic status. The design study used for this paper was a systematic review, a summary of clinical literature regarding childhood obesity and the factors that influence its prevalence in the United States. Literature search strategies used included data bases and specific search terms for clinical literature. The review confirms there are a wide range of environmental risk factors for childhood obesity that includes access to sports and outdoor facilities, access to technology, family habits, diet, education and information. The epidemic of childhood obesity has various contributing factors and causes of which prevention measures need to be taken immediately.