Childhood obesity is a long-term health condition that develops when a child’s weight is above the healthy range for their age, height, and sex. According to Mayo Clinic, doctors define it as having a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for children 2 years and older. September is marked as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, and India too is seeing worrying numbers, especially in cities where lifestyle changes, unhealthy diets, and less physical activity are driving the trend.How Common Is Childhood Obesity?Childhood obesity is not just a concern in India. In the United States, CDC data from 2017–2020 showed that about 19.7% of children and adolescents between ages 2 and 19 had obesity, roughly 14.7 million young people. Among them, 12.7% were between ages 2–5, 20.7% were 6–11, and 22.2% were 12–19.Dr Vivek Jain, Senior Director & Unit Head, Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital explains that in recent years, obesity among children has risen sharply due to many factors. Kids are spending more time in front of screens, getting less outdoor play, and attending online classes, all of which cut down their activity levels. At the same time, fast food, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks have become a regular part of diets.ALSO READ: WHO Guidelines On Weight Loss Drugs For Obesity Modern lifestyles also encourage frequent dining out, reliance on processed meals, and irregular eating. Add limited access to safe play areas, heavy academic schedules, and family history of obesity, and the risks become even higher. Without intervention, obesity in childhood often continues into adulthood, increasing chances of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and even some cancers.Causes Of Childhood ObesityObesity develops when children take in more calories than they burn, but it is rarely about laziness or lack of willpower. Several factors play a role:Genetics and epigeneticsChildren with parents or siblings who have obesity are more likely to develop it themselves. Certain genes affect how the body stores and uses energy. Experiences such as trauma or stress can also change how genes work, influencing metabolism and increasing the risk.Family and home environment factorsHabits at home strongly shape a child’s health. Having sugary drinks, eating oversized portions, frequent snacking on processed foods, dining out instead of cooking, excess screen time, lack of exercise, poor sleep, and even secondhand smoke exposure can all contribute.ALSO READ: 3 Children In Every 4 Minutes Are Diagnosed With Cancer, That's What Makes Awareness Important Says Doctor.Social determinants of healthThe surroundings in which children grow up also matter. Affordable healthy food may not always be accessible, and fast-food outlets may be more common. Lack of transport, social support, or safe recreational areas adds to the challenge. School meals and activities also influence a child’s diet and daily routine.Cultural factorsAdvertising and marketing of fast foods and sugary drinks—whether on TV, online, or in stores, make unhealthy options more appealing to children.How To Prevent Childhood ObesityPrevention needs a joint effort from families, schools, communities, and policymakers. Parents play the most important role, as they shape habits from an early age. Dr. Vivek suggests:Balanced nutrition: Encourage home-cooked meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit fried foods, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks.Physical activity: Aim for at least 60 minutes of active play or exercise daily, such as sports, cycling, or outdoor games.Reduced screen time: Limit television, mobile, and gaming time to help children stay active and sleep better.Family involvement: Lead by example—eat meals together, exercise as a family, and make health a priority.School initiatives: Schools should provide nutritious meals, promote physical education, and teach healthy habits.National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is more than just a reminder on the calendar, it is a call to action. By spreading awareness, guiding families, and building healthier environments, we can support children in leading active, balanced lives. Preventing obesity is not only about weight but about giving kids a healthier and more confident future.
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