Obesity is characterized by a progressive and excessive accumulation of fat, particularly in the abdomen and by an increase in body weight. A few extra pounds do not imply obesity.
What is obesity?
It is one of the most frequent disorders of the growth and nutrition of children and adolescents of the developed countries and our country does not escape this reality. Obesity is one of the easiest medical conditions to recognize, but whose treatment is very difficult.
The problem is global and is progressively affecting many low- and middle-income countries, especially in urban areas. Prevalence has increased at an alarming rate. It is estimated that in 2010 there are 42 million overweight children worldwide, of whom about 35 million live in developing countries.
Overweight children tend to be overweight adults, unless they adopt and maintain healthier eating and exercise patterns.
Generally a child is not considered obese until he weighs at least 10 percent more than the recommended weight for his height and body type. Obesity commonly begins in childhood between the ages of 5 to 6 years and during adolescence.