Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity Can Be Deadly

Harvard study finds that overweight kids risk premature death.

(Jul 4, 2008, Covington, WA). Overweight children most often become overweight adults. Sure, there are those who seek guidance or find inspiration and commit themselves to a healthier lifestyle. Unfortunately, those success stories are few and far between. The majority of obese children leave adolescence for an adult life already ripe with health concerns. And, according to a study by Harvard’s School of Public Health, those lives often end prematurely.

The Harvard study – published by the Annals of Internal Medicine – evaluated the health habits and medical records of more than 100,000 women who had provided data through the Nurses’ Health Study (an ongoing federally financed study on women’s health issues) since 1989. Researchers found that those women who were overweight or obese at age 18, had a far greater risk of dying from cancer or heart disease before reaching middle age.

“Today, one-third of U.S. children are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight,” said Dr. Treye Hovinga when contacted about the study. “And, the Harvard research confirms that childhood obesity is a death sentence, “ added Hovinga, whose chiropractic offices are located in Covington, WA.

“The physical and emotional strain on an overweight child is compounded by the

type of behavior uncovered in this study. The obese youth were found less likely
to exercise and more likely to have smoked and consumed alcohol. Let me be the master of the obvious, this is a recipe for a shorter life,“ continued Hovinga.

While the Harvard study did not establish whether permanent weight loss after age 18 decreases the risk of dying prematurely, Dr. Hoivnga urged parents and children to address their health regimen.

“Change the way you live, and you can alter the life path you currently travel,” noted Hovinga. “I preach to my patients that chiropractic care is part of a maintenance program that includes proper diet, exercise and a healthy mental outlook. There is a reason that clichés become clichés. Treat your body like a temple, and that temple will stand for a long time,” he concluded.

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Editor’s Note:
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Treye Hovinga directly at 17039 SE 272nd St. STE 100 Covington, WA 98042, telephone (253) 639-9822