Childhood obesity in low-income countries has reached epidemic levels, while in high-income countries, it has a high prevalence. In 2019, the World Obesity Federation estimated that 206 million children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 would be living with obesity by 2025. By 2030, this number is projected to rise to 254 million, representing a direct threat to the health of children and youth. In a 2023 report, UNICEF estimated that 31.7% of Costa Rican children and youth aged 5 to 19 are overweight or obese. This is the highest rate in Central America.
A bio-socioecological framework (integrating biological, psychological, social, and ecological aspects) highlights the combination of multiple factors causing this serious problem, such as genetic factors, high-calorie diets, family dynamics, and sedentary behaviors.
Electronic devices and screens expose children and youth to a barrage of advertising for fast-food restaurants and high-energy foods (high in calories and low in nutritional value), leading to increased calorie intake without their awareness. Costa Rica has yet to pass a law requiring front-of-package labeling or restricting the use of child-friendly characters to promote such foods.
Screens also have another consequence on children’s health. The “blue light” emitted by these devices interferes with the body’s circadian cycle, delaying the release of melatonin, the hormone responsible for inducing sleep. This causes significant changes in sleep patterns for children who spend excessive time in front of screens.
High calorie intake and low physical activity in children could lead to serious future health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and psychological issues.
Comprehensive Approach. Diagnosing and treating childhood obesity requires an interdisciplinary approach that includes calculating weight and height curves based on the child’s age, reviewing medical and family history, and assessing physical activity and eating habits. A multidimensional approach involving doctors, nutritionists, educators, and psychologists, along with the crucial support of families and the government, offers hope for reversing the damage caused by this epidemic.
It is important for caregivers to model and encourage healthy eating habits, incorporating more fruits and vegetables, fewer sugary drinks, and more water. Family supervision is also vital to create spaces where balanced meals can be shared and recreational activities include physical exercise. These are just some of the actions that can have a positive short- and long-term impact on preventing childhood obesity, improving the mental and physical health of children.
The CIELO project, co-funded by the European Commission’s Erasmus+ program, aims to enhance the competencies of teachers and students at higher education institutions in Chile, Costa Rica, and Mexico in the field of health promotion to prevent childhood obesity and foster mental health. This project is in the process of developing a curriculum that allows health professionals to update their knowledge for better treatment of childhood obesity and the promotion of mental health.
Referencias:
https://www.worldobesity.org/membersarea/global-atlas-on-childhood-obesity
https://www.unicef.org/costarica/informes/situacion-del-sobrepeso-y-la-obesidad-en-Costa-Rica
https://cielo-erasmus.net/
