Obesity prevention in children and adolescents – Current recommendations

IntroductionThe epidemic of obesity in children and adolescents is one of the major problems of 21st century society. About 70–80% of young people diagnosed with obesity in adolescence will become obese adults. In Poland, an excess of body weight affects every 7th teenager aged 13–15 (13.3%). The prevalence of excess body weight in 14–15 year olds has increased over the past 10 years by about 2.0% and obesity by 1.5%.AimThis work aimed at demonstrating the merits of obesity prevention and rehabilitation.DiscussionThe effectiveness of the prevention of obesity and being overweight among children and adolescents depends on early diagnosis, which involves screening in elementary, middle and high schools as well as the implementation of effective prevention programs and education. The planning of treatment for obese children should be guided by their family history, environment, neurological and physical examinations and the hitherto rehabilitation for the delineation of an optimal individualized rehabilitation program. In addition, laboratory tests should be taken into account for a complete assessment concerning the current condition of the child.ConclusionsThe prevention of obesity requires early diagnosis and rehabilitation as well as effective obesity prevention programs and education.