EDITORIAL: Fat Kids? Don't Mince Words

Jun 14, 03:05 PM

Current Headlines: By The Macon Telegraph, Ga.

Jun. 14--An AMA group wants to get the word out to doctors who treat children, that if a child is too fat, the doctor should make certain the child's condition is described in terms parents can understand. In other words, don't fuzzy it up when they have a child patient who is obese by saying something like the child is "at risk for overweight." The group is concerned that some pediatricians are possibly too diplomatic when they tell parents their youngster's health is at risk because of obesity. The condition should be described, the group urged, in a way that makes it clear that "chubby" or similar terms do not adequately reflect a condition of health.

According to the Associated Press, some 17 percent of American children are obese and another one-third are overweight, according to the committee's definitions. The report said the obese category -- what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention call "overweight" -- includes children with a body-mass index in the 95th percentile or higher, or above 30. The overweight category -- the CDC's "at risk" -- refers to children with a BMI between the 85th and 94th percentiles. The body mass index (BMI) is measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to males and females.

The percentage of children whose health can be harmed by conditions brought on or aggravated by obesity is rising. More children will suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels and other conditions normally found in adults. Additionally, the panel recommended doctors assess weight and body mass index at least yearly, as well as evaluating eating habits and activity levels at all well-child visits.

The committee's recommendations are nonbinding, but they make good sense. It is unfortunate but true that adult onset diabetes, frequently brought on by obesity, is not just an adult problem. And high-fat fast foods are setting the stage for later problems in younger people. Impressing parents with the importance of correct weight and diet is certain to benefit children in the long run.

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