Table of Contents
Issues
Childhood obesity in Ontario has become a problem of concern and is regarded as the most common prevalent nutritional disorder. This is critical because having obesity in childhood can be carried unto youth and adulthood leading to various biological and physiological complications. Other factors which are associated with childhood obesity which made it worse are negative social determinants, the influx of high fast food, and sedentary lifestyles. These adverse effects of childhood obesity have led to a decline in the health of Canadians and have amounted to a huge burden on the health and economy in Ontario. This has become a problematic issue, and hence we must propose solutions in other to stop childhood obesity.
Background
Childhood obesity has always been a global issue. In Canada studies were conducted from 1978-2009, has shown the prevalence has continued to increase. Childhood obesity have also been linked with various consequences such as emotional, social, physical health which can manifest now or later in their adult life (Public Health Agency of Canada [PHAC] & the Canadian Institute for health information, [CIHI] 2011).
Canadian Community Health Survey, indicated that the prevalence of weight problems increased by 2.5 times in 2004 than 1978/79 among youngsters and teenagers aged 2 to 17 (PHAC & CIHI, 2011).
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Current Issue
One of the Global nutritional target for 2025 by World health organization (WHO) which is aimed at childhood obesity, is called no increase in childhood overweight. It was observed that there will be an increase of about 11% in 2025 globally from the already 7% that was seen in 2012, therefore the aim of this target is to ensure childhood obesity does not increase. (WHO, 2014, p2)
Key Considerations
- In curbing childhood obesity, one of the key factors is to look at the social determinants of health which leads to both social and health inequalities such as low-income and social status (Rnao, 2014, p.24).
- A study conducted in 2006 accounted for about $6.0 billion, which also includes for 4.1% of the total health expenditures in Canada. It also showed 18 comorbidities linking to overweight and obesity which was evidenced based. Indications show that it will grow substantially to well above $8 billion in the near future (Anis et al., 2009,).
- Support healthy eating by subsidizing healthy foods and putting a high tax on sugary foods and beverages. In turn, the money gotten from this taxes can be used to invest in healthy food project here in Ontario (PHAC & CIHI, 2011, p.33).
Option: 1
Creating campaigns and awareness on childhood obesity in schools, community, general public and grass root levels.
Pros
This will create self-awareness at all levels, and also improve the success in the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity by engaging everyone. Children and parent will know and have an idea about food products they consume, complications associated with obesity, prevention strategies. This campaign will also be tailored based on various community levels, and various social determinants. Media ensure to spread the message.
Cons
Financial constraint, various stakeholders will be affected like the parents: Do they have the resources like money to follow the campaign? How accessible is the campaign?
How long will this awareness/campaign be carried out? Are there enough Health workers and non-health workers involved? At what time of the year will this awareness be done?
Option 2
Health professional should advocate by educating school children, parents on building a healthy lifestyle.
Pros
Health workers will use this method to access the level of knowledge of childhood obesity among parents and children. Wellness classes to be taught in schools, the community about nutrition and adequate physical exercise and should be tailored at for right age, sex etc. it will attract sponsorship from companies or organisations.
Cons
Time constraint, Limited adequately trained health personnel, educational level of the parents and child, inadequate knowledge.
Recommendation Action:
Option 2 is what I strongly recommend. It is also very important that adequately trained health care provider’s sees to it that the right information is given to guide both the parent and children. Teaching children about obesity can foster compliance. Health professionals should also bear in mind how social determinants and health inequalities have a major role in child nutrition when assessing a child.
Conclusions
Health is wealth, therefore prevention is better than cure. In other to achieve this we must start early by education children, parent and the public the various ways of preventing childhood obesity and correcting it on time. However, it is important that adequately trained health professionals are involved earlier in the life of the child. Also, parents/guardians should supports and promote healthy eating and lifestyle in the life of this child by practising it and encouraging the child. Addressing these social determinants will lead to healthier Canadian population and reduced cost in the health care system, thereby leading to the main goal which is health promotion.
