Parental neglect and unhealthy habits drive rise in childhood obesity

Panaji: Medical experts in Panaji are raising concerns about rising childhood obesity across all social classes, with only 10% of cases linked to medical conditions. Doctors emphasize the urgent need for parents to address unhealthy eating habits while children are still young enough for effective intervention.

Dr Chetna Khemani, senior paediatrician at North Goa District Hospital, reports seeing five to six obesity cases monthly. "We see cases in all sections of society. Obesity is no longer restricted to children with access to better lifestyles," she said.

Most cases are detected incidentally when children visit for common ailments. "It is then we discover that the child is overweight," Khemani added.

Paediatricians are observing rapid weight gain in children aged six months to 12 years. While inactive lifestyles and junk food consumption contribute significantly, parental negligence is identified as the primary factor.

"There is a rise in the culture where parents reward their children with sweets and punish them with

exercise," said Dr Ira Almeida, a consultant paediatrician in South Goa. "A lack of a balanced and nutrition-rich diet is what a child needs in their growing years, but parents often neglect this aspect, leading to ill health of their children."

Dr Ram Murthy Shastry, a paediatrician in Ponda, points out that many parents consider excess weight a sign of health and prosperity. "Obesity in children has long-term repercussions. If timely steps are not taken to correct the lifestyle, the onset of certain diseases is earlier," said Shastry.

Obese children face increased risks of developing type-II diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver, osteoporosis, and cardiac, kidney, and liver issues in early adulthood if their lifestyle remains unchanged.

Dr Preeti Kaisare, a paediatrician in Panaji, highlights how modern academic schedules limit children's physical activity. "Parents should consciously make decisions that will reduce the consumption of junk food by their children," said Kaisare.

The combination of intense academic schedules, including school and tuition classes, leaves children with minimal time for physical activities, further contributing to health risks.

Parents are advised to be vigilant about their children's eating habits and lifestyle choices to prevent long-term health complications.