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Podcast: Childhood Obesity
Rand: From the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, I’m Rand
Gardner with Healthcare 411: Information for better health.
Obesity is a serious issue among children and teens in the U.S. But studies now
show that there are programs that can help. That’s why the U.S. Preventive
Services Task Force recommends clinicians screen children ages 6 and older for
obesity and refer obese children to comprehensive weight management programs.
These programs include diet and exercise counseling, and other counseling that
gives kids the tools they need to improve their weight. Task Force member and
pediatrician Dr. David Grossman:
Dr. Grossman: It’s important for parents to know that effective and
comprehensive weight management programs incorporate counseling and other
interventions that target diet, physical activity and behavior. Successful
programs involve more than 25 hours of contact with a child over a 6-month
period. Parents should ask their child’s doctor for help in finding a program in
their area.
Rand: Healthcare 411 is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services.
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