Summary

In the United States, 32% of children are considered overweight, and 16% are obese. Recent trends show a slowing increase in this prevalence. However, 5% of the nation's youth are considered severely obese, a trend that continues to increase among those aged 6 to 19 years [Ogden CL et al. JAMA 2010]. Aside from the psychological and physical issues associated with pediatric and adolescent obesity, the condition also increases the risk of problems later in life, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, asthma, end-stage renal disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and severe ambulatory limitations [Inge TH et al. Pediatrics 2013].