Growing burden of childhood obesity

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing to express my concern about the rising prevalence of obesity among Jamaican children. Between 2017 and 2026, obesity among students ages 13-17 rose by 6.1 per cent (WHO GSHS Jamaica, 2017, 2026). During the back-to-school period, more teens are being identified as overweight or obese and are noted to have, or be developing, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as high blood pressure (hypertension).

This epidemic is being driven by various factors, including the consumption of unhealthy foods and sugar-sweetened beverages, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy sleeping habits. Spending time on tablets, mobile phones and other electronic devices has become a common form of entertainment. Not only does this promote a sedentary lifestyle, but increased screen time also affects sleep quality, especially if devices are used close to bedtime. Together, these behaviours increase the risk of obesity.

Tackling this growing burden of obesity in children is of national importance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2018, approximately 80 per cent of deaths in Jamaica were attributable to NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, diabetes and cancers. Obesity is a major contributor to the development of non-communicable diseases. Having obesity as a child or teen makes it more likely that an individual will have obesity and related health problems as an adult.

Parents should encourage healthy eating habits at home, promote physical activity, and reduce children’s screen time. Schools should promote physical education, provide nutritious food choices, and incorporate practical nutrition education into students’ learning experiences. The government should continue to support public education programmes and policies that promote nutritious diets and physical activity, so students and families can better appreciate the importance of healthy lifestyles.

Greater awareness and collaboration can help curb childhood obesity in Jamaica. Protecting the health of children protects Jamaica’s future health and productivity.

DR JAHVEL CAMPBELL

jahvelc@yahoo.com