Obesity may increase risk of depression in children, says expert

Obesity has a huge impact on physical health, psycho-social and mental health and may increase the risk of depression, especially in children and adolescents, doctors said on Friday. Obesity is one of the fastest growing chronic health conditions, increasing significantly among children and adolescents. The World Obesity Federation predicted in a 2023 report that in the next 12 years, more than 51 percent of the world’s population would be overweight or obese.

Dr. Arun Bhardwaj, Consultant – Minimal Access & Bariatric Surgery, HCMCT Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, “Children may experience subtle forms of teasing and discrimination for being obese, from being isolated and using food as a form of comfort can develop a tendency to. , told IANS.

“Compared to normal-weight children, those with obesity are 32 percent more likely to develop depression. The number is even higher for young girls and they are more likely to develop depression than normal-weight girls.” 44 percent higher. Dr. Aparna Govil Bhaskar, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai.

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Childhood obesity has now become an epidemic in India. According to a national study, India has about 14.4 million obese children, and it has the second highest number of obese children in the world after China.

“Obesity and depression are closely related and can have a major impact on a child’s life. Lack of time to play with friends and inability to participate in sports like peers can lead to depression in children. It is a A vicious cycle ensues where the child starts binge eating as a form of comfort food which in turn leads to more complications,” Dr Bhardwaj told IANS.

Furthermore, obese children are more likely to suffer from low self-esteem and weight bias, both at school and in the family.

“Lack of knowledge and awareness of parents about obesity leads to their inability to guide their children and sometimes both can lead to increased mental anxiety. Children with obesity suffer from neglect and are treated poorly. At the same time, this can lead to increased stress.” Which further exacerbates emotional eating behaviors, poor sleep, and fatigue, resulting in excess weight gain,” Dr. Bhaskar said.

In addition, childhood obesity has other health effects as well. Obese children have an increased risk of high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, high cholesterol and triglycerides, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, respiratory problems, emotional disturbances, and some cancers.

Two out of three obese children will also remain obese as adults and remain at risk for adult lifestyle diseases.

Childhood obesity in girls can lead to “irregular menstruation, endometrial polyps, stress urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse in later life”.

“Obesity can later lead to the insulin resistance that is commonly seen in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Having PCOS will add to the weight gain, making them feel ashamed and lonely.”

Parents and teachers both have important roles to play when it comes to helping children and teens with obesity.

Parents should be aware of inculcating good eating habits in their children. They should limit exposure to junk food and sugary drinks and encourage children to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Dr Bhaskar said screen time should be limited and there should be an emphasis on pushing children out to play in open areas.

He also called upon the schools not to keep junk food and sugary drinks in the canteen.