Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, Vol 817, Issue 1 225-240, Copyright © 1997 by New York Academy of Sciences
Management of childhood obesity in pediatric practice
C. L. Williams, L. A. Campanaro, M. Squillace and M. Bollella
Child Health Center, American Health Foundation, Valhalla, New York 10595, USA. chrisw@pol.net
Evaluation of obese children and adolescents in the pediatric office or
clinic should include baseline assessment of weight for height and body
fatness; rule out endocrine and genetic causes of obesity; and evaluate
other health-risk factors, such as those for cardiovascular disease,
cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. Treatment of obesity is most successful
if realistic goals are set; a balanced low-fat/high-fiber diet is stressed;
a safe rate of weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds per week is achieved through a
moderate reduction of caloric intake (approximately 20-25% decrease);
increased physical activity is stressed as much as diet; parental support
is strong; and behavior therapy is provided during the course of treatment
to help both child and parent achieve the diet, exercise, and behavior
goals.
