Problem
It is patently clear that trends or patterns regarding childhood obesity have shown
significant increments over the past years. The number of children that are affected by obesity
has tripled since 1980 resulting to 12.5 million kids aged 2-19 years to be subjected to this
condition(Morrissey, 2013). It has also been observed that one out of three children are currently
obese and overweight indicating that the US is facing an increasing epidemic. Notably, these
statistics also demonstrate that the children that are residing within the United States have a high
susceptibility to obesity. As such, there is need to develop interventions that are aimed at
addressing the concern of obesity among children.
The Setting or Context
The setting for this particular research relates to schools within the state of Texas. In this
case, children that are in the fourth, fifth, and six grades will be involved in the study. During
this period, nurses and other healthcare providers will be important in garnering information and
enhancing the success of the school-based intervention program.
A Description providing a High Level of Detail Regarding the Problem
, CHILDHOOD OBESITY 2
According to recent research, the issue of childhood obesity has increased at a high rate
within the United States (Moore, Wilkie, & Desrochers, 2017). The rising prevalence and
incidence, together with considerable financial and morbidity burden have demonstrated the
importance of implementing appropriate obesity identification as well as prevention tactics.
Reilly & Kelly (2010) asserts that aconsiderable correlation is observed between childhood
obesity and increased morbidity which progressed into adulthood. Along these lines, it has been
established that obesity has subjected children to poor health conditions.
Impact of the Problem
The incidence of childhood obesity is related to various health issues. In particular,
children with obesity are highly susceptible to high cholesterol, high blood pressures, insulin
resistance, impairment in glucose toleration, sleep apnea, asthma, and type 2 diabetes(Nielsen et
al., 2018). On the same note, it has been observed that obese children are faced with some
concerns of low-self-esteem as well as body image (Fiese, Hammons & Grigsby-
Toussaint,2012). As well, children obesity has been shown to have a remarkable effect on the
medical costs of the nation (Bauer et al., 2012). Ideally, the yearly medical expenses are three
times more in the case of obese children than children with normal body weight.
Significance of the Problem
Childhood obesity prevention is important in protecting children from various effects
related to obesity (Conway,Haller, &Lutfiyya,2012). The research on childhood obesity is
important in this scenario because it will provide awareness concerning the risk factors for
obesity. As well, the study helps to inform the teachers, parents, and children on the effects of
childhood obesity. Based on increased knowledge on childhood obesity, its causes, and its
impacts, it is presumed that the health outcomes of children will considerably improve.
A Proposed Solution