Education and Support

Learn about Childhood/Adolescent Obesity

Childhood obesity is a serious health problem in the United States. More than 14.4 million U.S. children and teens are affected, making it the most common chronic disease of childhood. This number has more than tripled since 1980.

More and more children and adolescents are being diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension, and other conditions associated with obesity and severe obesity.

Childhood and adolescent obesity has physical and emotional consequences, with a higher risk of bullying and harassment from peers.

In this section, you will find an in-depth look at childhood and adolescent obesity, its causes, how to measure it, and more.