In today’s fast-paced world, lifestyle diseasesWhat was once considered a health concern for adults is now making alarming inroads into the youth population. bad eating habits, deficiency physical activityand longer screen time This has created a perfect storm, pushing children towards conditions like obesity, diabetesAnd high blood pressureThese diseases not only affect their current health but also lead to long-term complications, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and intervention.

Dr. Preeti Anand, Senior Consultant, Pediatrics, Max Smart Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, shares the gravity of this issue, discussing its causes, consequences and actionable solutions.

childhood obesity With global impact, rates have nearly tripled since 1975. Dr. Anand says this trend is not limited to specific regions, adding that childhood obesity is a precursor to serious health problems like diabetes and heart diseases.

Factors contributing to lifestyle diseases

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

Unhealthy diet: The availability and marketing of fast food and sugary snacks has normalized poor eating habits among children.

impact of technology: Increased screen time reduces physical activity, with many children failing to meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily exercise.

social change: Urban living and busy parenting schedules often lead to increased reliance on convenient food instead of home-made, nutritious options.

Children affected by lifestyle diseases face serious physical and mental problems. mental health risk. According to Dr. Anand, these include complications such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and mental health challenges, including anxiety and low self-esteem from bullying.

Dr Anand emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach involving schools, parents and policy makers:

schools: Should include nutrition education and ensure regular physical activity through sports and outdoor games.

Guardian: There is a need to provide balanced meals, limit screen time, and encourage active hobbies.

government policies: Should regulate food marketing targeted at children and improve nutrition standards in schools while supporting community fitness programs.

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