Obesity Interventions Among Adolescents and Children

Abstract

The purpose of this review of literature was to examine the effectiveness of both school and home-based interventions in preventing obesity among the children and adolescent population. Childhood obesity has become a serious health concern in this population. In the United States, the percentage of children and adolescents who have been affected by obesity has more than tripled since the 1970’s. Many children and adolescents are at risk for poor health throughout their lifetime, due to developing obesity at a young age. The research examined in this literature review focused on the effectiveness of interventions that took place in the home and school settings. It has been shown that including parents in an intervention is vital for childhood obesity treatment because parental obesity has been linked to adolescent obesity. While interventions that take place in the home are important, it is may also be beneficial for children and adolescents to receive proper interventions at school. It is vitally important for children and adolescents to receive the appropriate intervention for obesity at this time in their lives. Whether it be in the child’s home, if the resources are available to them, or if the individual lacks proper assistance from the home, being able to receive the intervention in a school setting can help prevent adult obesity-related morbidity and decrease the risk of future chronic health conditions.