Early Prevention Strategies for Childhood Obesity: A Path to Reducing Long-Term Health Risks
Nafel Sammah Alharbi 1*, Hanadi Naji Hajrasi 1, Ahmed Abdullah Sharkh Alsharekh 1, Sulaiman Al Bawardi 1, Nasser Suliman Al-Nasser 1, Suliman Alhoureny 1, Abdullah Altwejry 1, Salem Faraj M Alqahtani 1, Nawal Hlal salah Almotairi 1, Mariam Sabr Shafagh Alshameri 1, Nawal Ganai Mohammed Bahari 1, Alhanouf Zaid Munawer Almutairi 1, Yazeed Nasser Fawaz AlMousa 1, Saif Sultan Alsahli 1, Nuha Naif Alshammari 2, Saif Sultan Alsahli 1, Batoul Nasser Al-Qudum 1, Afaf Masoud Al-Balawi 1, Bunaydir Aali Almotairi 1*
Journal of Angiotherapy 7(2) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/angiotherapy.7210108
Submitted: 16 October 2023 Revised: 29 December 2023 Published: 30 December 2023
Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity is a growing global public health concern, with significant implications for physical and mental well-being. Various factors contribute to obesity, including poor dietary habits, physical inactivity, and sedentary behaviors. Understanding the complex relationship between these factors is essential for designing effective interventions. This review synthesizes recent research on childhood obesity, examining the role of physical activity, dietary patterns, and sedentary behaviors in its development and potential prevention strategies. Methods: A systematic review was conducted to assess studies on childhood obesity, physical activity, dietary patterns, and interventions. Studies included were those published in peer-reviewed journals that examined the effects of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and dietary intake on obesity outcomes in children and adolescents. Data were extracted from a variety of sources, including cohort studies, randomized controlled trials, and systematic reviews, with a focus on intervention effectiveness and health risks. Results: The findings indicated a strong association between increased sedentary behavior and the risk of childhood obesity, as well as a direct relationship between physical activity and reduced adiposity. Several intervention programs aimed at reducing sedentary behavior and promoting physical activity have demonstrated effectiveness in preventing and managing obesity. In particular, school-based programs and multisetting interventions have shown promise in diverse, lower-income communities. Additionally, unhealthy dietary patterns, established early in life, track into later childhood, reinforcing the importance of early intervention. Conclusion: Addressing childhood obesity requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and reduced sedentary behavior. Effective interventions should focus on both individual and environmental factors, particularly within school and community settings. Future research should further explore the long-term impact of early interventions and develop strategies tailored to different socioeconomic and cultural contexts. Reducing childhood obesity is critical for improving the health and well-being of future generations.
Keywords: Childhood obesity, Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, Interventions, Health Risks
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