Deepa Shokeen1, Bani Tamber
Aeri2*
1Senior
Research Fellow, Department of Food and Nutrition, Institute of Home Economics,
University of Delhi- 110016, India
2Assistant
Professor, Department of Food and Nutrition, Institute of Home Economics,
University of Delhi-
110016, India
*Address for Correspondence: Dr.
Bani Tamber Aeri, Asst. Professor, Department of Food
and Nutrition, F-4 Hauz Khas Enclave, Institute
of Home Economics, University of Delhi- 110016, India
ABSTRACT- The rising incidence of overweight and
obesity among children and adolescents has become a cause of concern for India.
Overweight/Obesity is an independent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases
(CVDs) but it needs to be addressed seriously. Research has shown that
modifiable and environmental factors along with genetics triggers the risk of
cardiovascular diseases quite early in childhood threatening
the health prospects of adults. It is crucial to address the causes of
overweight/obesity like physical inactivity, unhealthy eating, lack of
knowledge and awareness and impact of media and advertising. Clustering of
cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure, hyperglycemia, abdominal
obesity, high triglycerides in children and adolescents is an alarming sign. In
order to dodge this serious public health crisis in near future we need to curb
the prevailing risk factors of overweight/obesity. A holistic approach to
tackle the obesity epidemic with an array of activities from policy making to
program implementation, community education to individual knowledge and skill
development is required. We need to promote healthy eating and lifestyle
modifications in childhood and adolescents to prevent CVD risk in adulthood.
Key-words- Adolescents, Obesity, Overweight,
Cardiovascular Diseases
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