Newark, NJ--According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over the past three decades the childhood obesity rate has more than doubled for preschool children aged 2-5 years and adolescents aged 12-19 years, and it has more than tripled for children aged 6-11 years. Overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of becoming overweight or obese adults, according to CDC research.
To assist families with this important health issue, the Pediatric Health Center at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center offers a multidisciplinary pediatric weight management program called KIDSFIT Newark. Under the direction of Nwando Anyaoku, MD, Director of Pediatric Ambulatory Services at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, the 8-week program involves visits with a physician, social worker and nutritionist as well as a two-hour group meeting and exercise session each week.
The dramatic increase in the prevalence of childhood overweight is associated with significant health and financial burdens, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports. Overweight children are at risk for early development of health problems such as diabetes, hormonal imbalances, heart disease, high blood pressure, breathing problems, sleep problems, joint problems, as well as social and psychological difficulties.
"Adolescent obesity has become a national public health problem," says Dr. Anyaoku. “Childhood obesity not only affects a child's self-esteem, it also is associated with multiple medical consequences. The incidence of type 2 diabetes in children has risen significantly in recent years.”
Addressing the Growing Problem
KIDSFIT Newark is a comprehensive program that teaches children, teens and families how to live in a healthy way, regardless of previous habits. It provides a supportive environment for families to adopt a healthier lifestyle. The program provides medical assessment, nutritional meal planning and lifestyle recommendations.
Obesity is affected by a combination of genetics, diet and physical activity level. At KIDSFIT Newark, if there are underlying medical causes for obesity, or if a child has developed obesity-related conditions, the staff can refer the child to a network of pediatric specialists at Children’s Hospital of New Jersey.
A registered dietician conducts a complete nutritional evaluation, provides nutritional education, and helps the family develop a dietary plan. Then, over the 8-week period, children return for follow-up sessions. During those visits, progress is recorded and any necessary adjustments are made to the eating plan.
The weekly two-hour group meeting and exercise session held in the Pediatric Health Center provides basic personal fitness training principles through action. Course content includes cardiovascular, strength & flexibility training, with emphasis on activities that are easily reproducible in the child’s home environment, as well as sound nutrition habits.
A pediatrician can provide a referral to this program by calling (973) 926-2884.
About Children's Hospital of New Jersey
Children's Hospital of New Jersey, located at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and part of the Saint Barnabas Health Care System, is the state's premier hospital caring for children, with specialized services to treat ill and injured children from newborn to adolescent years as well as preventive programs that promote wellness in the community. For a referral to a pediatrician or pediatric specialist, please call 1-888-724-7123.
DATE: September 29, 2008
CONTACT: Beth Salamon, Public Relations (973) 322-4926
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