Obesity Is Defined As A Disorder - 1033 Words

Obesity is defined as a disorder resulting in excessive amount of body fat. In today’s society, obesity seen in the adolescent population has vastly increased from previous years. As a result, many health issues, such as diabetes, are now more common to see in adolescents. Due to the increasing numbers who suffer from obesity, it is important to treat and advise adolescents about healthy living and encourage them to be more active to decrease the risks of severe health issues they may face when entering adulthood. Causes of adolescent obesity vary from genetic causes to poor eating habits. Other causes include overeating, lack of physical activity, a family history of obesity, medical conditions, such as endocrine or neurological†¦show more content†¦Although these symptoms are common in obese adolescent, each person may present differently with some or all symptoms. Obesity can be diagnosed by a range of exams including BMI, a proper health history, a physical examination, measuring the waist circumference, screening for health issues, and blood tests. The BMI, or body mass index, is often measured at every well-check and recorded on a chart to see progress. A BMI at the 95th percentile or more or a BMI more than 30 indicates the need for a work-up to rule out any medical problems that may lead to obesity. A BMI between the 85th and 95th percentile or equal to 30 requires evaluation of health risks including a family history of cardiovascular disease, elevated total cholesterol, diabetes, or obesity, an elevated blood pressure, increased total cholesterol levels, large increase in BMI from year to year, issues about weight including personal concerns and perception of overweight. A detailed health history is required to record the amount of fat and sugar is consumed. Questions include the amount of sugary drinks per day, the amount of vegetable s eaten, the amount of cups of water per day, and the amount of exercise per week. A general physical examination should include