Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, and this is especially true for teenagers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 20 percent of adolescents are obese.

This is a worrisome trend, as evidence has continued to mount indicating that obesity increases the risk of cancer in both children and adults. As parents, healthcare providers, policymakers, and members of the community, we must take action to address the issue of obesity in teens and the long-term risks associated with this disease.

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat accumulates and leads to negative health outcomes. Body mass index (BMI) is one way to measure obesity.

BMI is calculated by dividing one’s weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese, while a BMI of between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight.

Obesity in Teens

During adolescence, the body goes through many physical changes. These changes can be challenging for teens, especially if they are overweight or obese.

Sadly, overweight and obese teens are at a higher risk of developing serious health problems, including cancer.

Obesity and Cancer Risk

Obesity is linked to the development of various cancers, including breast, colon, ovarian, endometrial, kidney, and liver cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, obesity accounts for 8 percent of all cancers diagnosed in the United States.

The exact mechanism behind the link between obesity and cancer is still unclear. However, several factors have been suggested by researchers, including:.

Chronic inflammation caused by excess fat tissue
Direct effects of hormones on cancer cell growth
Increased levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factors

How to Address Obesity in Teens

As a society, we must take action to address the issue of obesity in teens. Here are some steps that can help:.

Encourage healthy eating habits: Teens should be encouraged to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Sugary drinks and processed foods should be limited.
Physical activity: Encourage teens to engage in regular physical activity, such as playing sports, dancing, or going for a walk.
Screen time: Limit the amount of time teens spend on electronic devices. This includes watching TV, playing video games, and using social media.
Positive body image: Encourage teens to have a positive body image. This includes focusing on their talents, skills, and interests, rather than their weight or appearance.

The Role of Parents and Healthcare Providers

Parents and healthcare providers play a critical role in addressing obesity in teens. They should:.

Be positive role models: Parents and healthcare providers should model healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and a positive body image.
Educate teens: Teens should be educated about the risks associated with obesity, both in the short term and long term, including the increased risk of cancer.
Screening: Healthcare providers should screen teens for obesity and related health problems, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
Provide resources: Healthcare providers should provide resources, including nutritionists, dietitians, and exercise specialists, to help families address obesity.

The Role of Policymakers

Policymakers also play a critical role in addressing obesity in teens. They can:.

Limit access to unhealthy food: Policymakers can limit access to unhealthy food in school cafeterias, vending machines, and convenience stores near schools.
Encourage physical activity: Policymakers can encourage physical activity by providing safe parks, bike paths, and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Limit screen time: Policymakers can limit screen time by promoting media literacy, supporting healthy media habits, and encouraging outdoor activities.
Support community-based programs: Policymakers can support community-based programs that promote healthy eating and physical activity, including after-school programs and youth sports leagues.

Conclusion

Obesity is a major health concern for teens in the United States. It is linked to an increased risk of cancer, which makes it all the more important to take action to address this issue.

As parents, healthcare providers, policymakers, and members of the community, we can take steps to promote healthy eating habits, physical activity, and a positive body image in our teens. Doing so can help ensure that they live long, healthy lives, free from the risks associated with obesity.