Obese Kids Want to Lose Weight

Live report from the AAFP annual meeting in Orlando, FL A majority of young people who have weight problems are trying to do something about it according to a study of Delaware public high school students, presented by Dr. Heather Bittner.

In this study 14.6% of the 2700 respondents were clinically obese, and 82% had an accurate perception of their obesity. Over 75% said they intended to lose weight. On the negative side results of this 106 question survey showed that 17% had no intention of trying to lose weight. These patients are a key target for family practitioners, and it is possible that a simple intervention might change behavior. These interventions might include calculating BMI or recommending reduced TV watching. More complex and often much needed interventions include referrals for nutritional counseling and help in analyzing their current diets.

Dr. Bittner closed by adding “ Most overweight kids know they are overweight and it is encouraging that these kids are ready to make a change.