Obesity is a global issue. I was fascinated yet disappointed as I read some of the findings from the 31^st European Congress on Obesity. 

Highlights included:  

• Children who use screens during mealtimes are more likely to be obese as they are less likely to understand when they are full and keep eating because they are distracted by the screens.  

• The percentage of obese children and adolescents worldwide has quadrupled among both girls (1.7% to 6.9%) and boys (2.1% to 9.3%) between 1990 and 2022.  

• The prevalence of obesity in children with special needs is notably higher compared to their peers without special needs. According to the CDC, 20% of children aged 10 through 17 years who have special health care needs are obese, compared with 15% of children of the same age without special health care needs. Additionally, estimates suggest that 21.1% of children and adolescents (ages 10–17) with disabilities have obesity.  

• Childhood obesity is considered a life-threatening disease as modeling has shown that the life expectancy of a child with severe obesity is 39 years, about half the average. 

There are several contributing factors to obesity in children with special needs. Some of the key factors include:  

• Medications: Many children with special health care needs take prescription drugs that contribute to weight gain.  

• Family Stress: High stress within the family can lead to unhealthy eating habits and reduced physical activity.  

• Genetic Disorders: Certain genetic conditions can predispose children to obesity.  

• Social Isolation: Children with special needs may experience social isolation, leading to decreased physical activity and increased sedentary behavior.  

• Lack of Physical Activity: Barriers to physical activity, such as lack of interest, lack of developmentally appropriate programs, and behavioral challenges, can lead to obesity.  

• Unhealthy Eating Habits: Increased food portion sizes, greater consumption of sugary drinks, and limited nutritional options can also play a role.  

These factors can interact and compound the risk of obesity in children with special needs, making it important to address them comprehensively.  

Parents and caregivers can take several steps to address the contributing factors to obesity in children with special needs:  

Healthy Eating Habits  

• Provide Nutritious Foods: Stock the fridge and pantry with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other nutritious foods.  

• Limit Unhealthy Foods: Keep low-quality foods and drinks, like sugary soda, sweets, and super-processed foods, to a minimum and out of reach of children at home.  

• Family Meals: Eat dinner together as a family to encourage healthy eating habits.  

• Physical Activity: Create a home where being active daily is the norm, such as walking or biking. Choose activities that are both fun and age appropriate.  

.  Behavioral Interventions  

• Family-Based Behavioral Treatments: Participate in family-based behavioral treatments that target both children and their caregivers to promote weight management through healthy eating and exercise.  

• Behavioral Counseling: Engage in behavioral counseling to increase the likelihood of sustained weight loss.   

• By implementing these strategies, parents and caregivers can help children with special needs maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.  

Yes, this is a challenging problem for many children and parents. However, working together, we can combat obesity and its impact on children with special needs, their families, and the community.