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Why these two modern-day challenges need urgent attention
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Summary
Childhood obesity and social media addiction are two modern-day challenges that demand urgent attention, points out Dr. Anupam Sibal, a paediatric gastroenterologist and Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospitals Group. Prevalence of Child Obesity Referring to a survey conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic by Apollo Hospitals Group on child obesity in 5 to 10-year-old school children …
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Childhood obesity and social media addiction are two modern-day challenges that demand urgent attention, points out Dr. Anupam Sibal, a paediatric gastroenterologist and Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospitals Group.
Prevalence of Child Obesity
Referring to a survey conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic by Apollo Hospitals Group on child obesity in 5 to 10-year-old school children in South Delhi, Dr Sibal says the findings were alarming. This survey found that 15% of children were overweight, and 4.9% were classified as obese. Even more concerning was the discovery that 19% of children with normal weight had fatty livers, while a 45% of overweight children had the same condition.
Dr. Sibal identifies unhealthy snacking habits and the availability of junk food in school canteens as major contributors to the rise in childhood obesity. The pandemic according to him exacerbated sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits with the incidence of obesity increasing post-COVID-19.
Perils of Social Media Addiction
In addition to obesity, Dr. Sibal highlights the detrimental effects of social media addiction on children’s health and well-being. He observes a concerning trend of even 4 to 5-year-olds spending excessive time on smartphones, leading to adverse effects on their eyesight. The shift to online schooling during the pandemic further intensified screen time, raising concerns about parental control and healthy communication within families.
Dr. Sibal advocates for strict guidelines on screen time, recommending no more than one hour per day for children aged 2 to 5 years. He underscores the importance of parental involvement and fostering open communication with children from a young age. Failure to engage with children can lead them to seek advice and validation from social media platforms, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and inadequacy.
Addressing Child Obesity with Lifestyle Changes
Dr. Sibal emphasised the need for a holistic approach to combat child obesity, involving the entire family in adopting healthier lifestyles. He stresses the importance of parental buy-in and active participation in programs aimed at promoting weight loss in children. By fostering a supportive environment at home and encouraging healthier eating habits and physical activity, families can effectively address the challenges of childhood obesity.
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