Obesity can cause psychological trauma in children: Expert

Chennai, Nov 23 (UNI) Obesity, which is on the rise among children, particularly girls in the age group of 10 to 14 due to unhealthy eating habits and changing lifestyles, can lead to psychological trauma.

According to Apollo Hospitals Endocrinologist and Diabetologist Department Consultant Dr Jayashree Gopal, the reasons for rise in obesity among children were mainly the result of increased hours of inactivity due to increasing academic pressure, television, video games and computer.

She said obse children face a lot of physical and psychological broblems from their peer groups.

The burden of being obese affects educational achievements and social relationships.

Citing different diseases like diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and cancer that result from obesity, Dr Gopal said obesity had emerged as a complex condition with serious social and psychological dimensions affecting virtually all ages and socio-economic groups.

Obesity must be dealt with seriousness and steps should be taken to check its rise among the children. Awareness on importance of proper diet and physical activity must be created among the children, she added.

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