Obesity in the Adolescent

Abstract
The most common cause of obesity in childhood is increased intake of calories. When this exceeds the energy expended by the child he becomes obese. Although the obesity may be brought to the physicians attention first during adolescence, a careful history reveals that this often had started in early childhood. The fact that most of these children are referred to an endocrinologist illustrates the misunderstanding that most physicians, public health workers, and nurses have with regard to the etiology of obesity in childhood. Often these children have psychological problems and it is important to resolve these difficulties. Diet therapy is of value and need not be so severe that any dietary deficiency will result. The physician who treats these children must spend adequate time and have adequate patience to obtain good results.

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