Which of the following statements about childhood obesity is true?
Children who are overweight at age 3 are also at risk of being overweight at age 12.
In 2005, the United States had the highest rate of child obesity in the world.
Obesity is not linked to type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes in children.
There is no indication that overweight young children will become overweight adults.
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer:
“Children who are overweight at age 3 are also at risk of being overweight at age 12.”
Explanation:
Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern worldwide. Research has shown that children who are overweight or obese at an early age are at an increased risk of remaining overweight as they grow older. Several longitudinal studies have indicated that excess weight in early childhood often persists into later years, including adolescence and adulthood.
One of the main reasons for this is the development of long-term eating habits, physical activity patterns, and metabolic changes. When children develop unhealthy dietary habits and sedentary behaviors early in life, these patterns are likely to continue unless interventions are made. Furthermore, obesity in early childhood can lead to physiological changes, such as increased fat cell production, which makes it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight later in life.
The other statements in the question are incorrect:
- “In 2005, the United States had the highest rate of child obesity in the world.”
- While the U.S. has high rates of childhood obesity, other countries, including some Pacific Island nations, have recorded even higher rates. Additionally, obesity rates fluctuate over time.
- “Obesity is not linked to type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes in children.”
- This is false. Childhood obesity is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, a condition that was once considered an adult disease but is now increasingly diagnosed in children.
- “There is no indication that overweight young children will become overweight adults.”
- This is also incorrect. Studies show a strong correlation between childhood and adult obesity, with many overweight children growing up to be overweight adults.
Early prevention and intervention are crucial in addressing childhood obesity to reduce the risk of long-term health complications.
