Childhood Obesity Specialist
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Optimum Medical, LLC
Jacques E Etienne, MD, FAAP
Pediatrician located in Danbury, CT
Childhood obesity is a growing problem in America and places children at risk of serious health problems. Jacques Etienne, MD, FAAP, and the team at Optimum Medical, LLC, in Danbury, Connecticut, offer caring and compassionate care for childhood obesity and can help your child reach and maintain a healthier weight. Begin today by booking a visit online or over the phone.
Childhood Obesity Q & A
How common is childhood obesity?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just over 19% of American children and adolescents are obese. Research shows that certain populations have higher rates of childhood obesity, including Hispanic and black children, but that the problem occurs in all ethnicities.
This means around one out of every five children in America are obese, a statistic that is far higher than in generations past and seemingly increasing steadily. Because carrying excess pounds is so harmful to overall health and wellness, finding a way to support healthy lifestyles is a critical part of reducing the childhood obesity epidemic.
What are the health risks of being overweight or obese?
Carrying a significant amount of extra weight places an enormous toll on the body. Some of the known health issues linked to being overweight or obese include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Fatty liver disease
- Joint problems
- Type 2 diabetes
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
- Anxiety and depression
Being overweight or obese also makes it hard for kids to establish good self-esteem and leaves them at risk for bullying and social stigma.
What can be done to treat childhood obesity?
Your child’s treatment plan depends on their age, weight, and overall health. Dr. Etienne performs a thorough health assessment before crafting a customized treatment plan.
Expect a physical exam, blood work, and a thorough discussion of your family’s nutrition and activity habits. All of this information helps Dr. Etienne create a weight loss or weight management plan that aligns with your child’s day-to-day life.
Improving nutrition is key to losing excess weight and supporting the many bodily functions that occur each day. This often requires the active support and participation of the entire household, as kids will embrace new dietary habits faster when the entire family is on board.
Improving nutrition doesn’t just mean cutting out processed foods and unhealthy options. It also means introducing new foods that often become family favorites. It seems counterintuitive to increase food consumption to lose weight, but when you add lots of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to your diet, weight loss usually follows.
Medications might be part of your child’s weight loss treatment. That said, every effort is made to achieve a healthier weight without reliance on pharmaceutical interventions.
When you’re ready to begin, schedule a visit using the online booking tool. You are also welcome to call to check appointment availability.
