ABC News: Children with obesity should get proactive treatment, American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines
By Dr. Nicole McLean and Dr. Karra Manier
Children and adolescents should be proactively evaluated and treated for obesity, according to new guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics around childhood obesity.
The guidelines note that treatments, including medications and weight loss surgery, can be effective and can help reduce the risk of developing other health conditions.
The AAP also said childhood obesity is a disease with genetic, social and environmental factors — not something caused by individual choices — and that it shouldn't be stigmatized by health care providers.
"Weight is a sensitive topic for most of us, and children and teens are especially aware of the harsh and unfair stigma that comes with being affected by it," Dr. Sarah Hampl, a lead author of the guidelines and pediatrician and weight management specialist at Children's Mercy Kansas City, said in a statement. "Our kids need the medical support, understanding and resources we can provide within a treatment plan that involves the whole family."
Read the full article via ABC News