Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

Childhood obesity is harmful to kids as it can lead to a multitude of adverse health effects. In the short term, children with obesity may experience physical health issues such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and joint problems. In the long term, they are at a higher risk for developing chronic health conditions including heart disease, stroke, certain types of cancer, and respiratory disorders. Childhood obesity can also have negative effects on mental and emotional well-being, such as low self-esteem and increased risk of depression. Addressing childhood obesity and supporting the child emotionally is imperative to ensure the health and well-being of children. Here are some resources to learn more about the issue:

​The Truth About Obesity

Obesity in California has been a long-standing chronic health concern impacting 30 percent of our state’s population. Adults impacted by obesity have an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and most recently COVID-19 complications, just to name a few (CDC). Due to social stigmas and the assumption that obesity is a lifestyle choice, people suffering from obesity are often ignored and given less-than-ideal treatment for their chronic disease.
Some factors leading to obesity include:
• Early life conditioning
• Food addiction
• Genetics
• Hormone changes and imbalances (menopause, eating trigger hormones, etc.)
• Living conditions (food deserts, outdoor exercise safety issues, etc.)
• Medication side effects (corticosteroids, antidepressants, seizure meds, etc.)
• Poor sleep
• Stress
• Thyroid issues
What Can Help?
Doctors know obesity is a chronic illness. In 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA) created a policy acknowledging that point. Yet, it is still hard to get beyond the suggestion to “change your diet and exercise”.
We want to encourage you to have a conversation with your doctor or healthcare provider. Ask them to consider what other factors could be affecting your weight including those listed above. What are all your options to change the situation? These options should include healthy eating and exercise but should also include testing and labs to determine if other things are going on in your body. Options to change medications, analysis of your overall medical condition, medication, and surgical options should all be considered.
cHope is a project of the
California Chronic Care Coalition
1001 K Street, 6th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
​The California Chronic Care Coalition (CCCC) is a unique alliance of more than 30 leading consumer health organizations and provider groups that promote the collaborative work of policy makers, industry leaders, providers, and consumers to improve the health of Californians with chronic conditions. We envision a system of care that is accessible, affordable, and of a high-quality that emphasizes prevention, coordinated care, and the patient’s wellness and longevity.
The information found here including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and all other material contained on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Talk to your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider about any health or medical questions you may have, and to determine the correct course of action for your individual needs.