In today’s fast-paced world, lifestyle diseases, once considered an adult health concern, are now making alarming inroads into younger populations. Poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and prolonged screen time have created a perfect storm, pushing children toward conditions like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. These diseases not only impact their current health but also set the stage for long-term complications, emphasising the urgent need for awareness and intervention.

Dr Preeti Anand, Senior Consultant, Paediatrics, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, shares the gravity of this issue, delving into its causes, consequences, and actionable solutions.

Childhood obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975, with global implications. Dr Anand says that this trend is not confined to specific regions, pointing out that childhood obesity is a precursor to severe health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Factors Contributing to Lifestyle Diseases

Dr Anand identifies three main factors behind the rise of lifestyle diseases:

Unhealthy Diets: The availability and marketing of fast food and sugary snacks have normalised poor eating habits among children.

Technology's Impact: Increased screen time leads to less physical activity, with many children failing to meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily exercise.

Societal Changes: Urban living and busy parental schedules often result in a reliance on convenience meals over home-cooked, nutritious options.

Children affected by lifestyle diseases face serious physical and mental health risks. According to Dr Anand, these include complications like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and mental health challenges, including anxiety and low self-esteem from bullying.

Dr Anand stresses the importance of a collaborative approach involving schools, parents, and policymakers:

Schools: Should incorporate nutrition education and ensure regular physical activity through sports and outdoor play.

Parents: Need to provide balanced meals, limit screen time, and encourage active hobbies.

Government Policies: Must regulate food marketing targeted at children and improve nutritional standards in schools while supporting community fitness programmes.

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