| Childhood obesity is increasing worldwide. Also in the Netherlands there is an alarming increase in the incidence of overweight and obesity in children. A particular rise in prevalence was seen in children aged 4 to 6 years old. It is important to reduce obesity in children as early as possible to minimize health risks in adulthood, since it is known that the longer the obesity exists, the more likely it persists. Psychosocial problems, like low self-esteem and bullying by schoolmates, are known complications of overweight in children. Recently health risks have been acknowledged as well. As with adult obesity, obesity in children is related to high blood pressure, lower physical condition, orthopedic problems and diabetes type 2. Obesity treatment in children is difficult. No consensus has been reached on the best intervention method. The disease often challenges individual pediatricians and general practitioners. There is clear evidence that the combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, dietary guidance and lifestyle activity change is very effective for weight reduction in older children. Intervention to prevent or reverse obesity in its early stages is probably more successful and beneficial than treating well established, complicated adolescent or adult obesity. Children are better able than adults to maintain weight loss! Therefore the GECKO Outpatients Clinic will evaluate a multidisciplinary treatment program for young obese children. |
