Obese children, parental responsiblity and economic burden

Child obesity is a global issue, and while this article will focus on China, many of the points discussed are relevant worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries.

Overweight children are more prone to issues like poor cardiovascular health, asthma, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease compared to their non-overweight peers. Additionally, these children are more likely to become obese adults, significantly burdening even the most robust healthcare systems.

A 2021 study in The Lancet projected that the number of obese children in China would reach 58 million by 2030. In the same year, the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that, without preventive measures, adult chronic diseases resulting from being overweight or obese would cost 49 billion yuan annually. Furthermore, a 2023 Lancet study revealed that mortality associated with overweight and obesity among children and adolescents would lead to economic losses of CNY 211.4 trillion between 2025 and 2092.

To clarify, when I refer to overweight children, I mean those who are visibly overweight and clearly need to lose a few pounds. While I could distinguish between being overweight and being obese, I believe that both conditions can have significant repercussions.

Since the Chinese days of famine and scarcity are well-behind us, it's become apparent that the number of overweight children has increased substantially.

Of course, several factors contribute to this issue, including the increase in sedentary lifestyles, excessive screen time, and changing dietary habits. However, attributing the problem solely to these factors can sometimes be an evasion of responsibility. I agree that all stakeholders are accountable for combating this tragic epidemic affecting not only China, but the world. However, since this article centres primarily on China, that will be our geographic focus.

The government should certainly play a role in addressing the rising incidence of childhood obesity, such as by restricting internet access for children, taxing sugary drinks, and creating regulations for healthy school meals. However, why is there always so much emphasis on policy and interventions by authorities? Are caregivers of children truly so incapable that they need others to control what they feed their kids? Parents and caregivers must act and not shirk their responsibility.

Some argue that we need to educate people on what constitutes a healthy diet. While I partially agree, I also see this as an excuse to virtue signal and defend the 'downtrodden.' Seriously, what parent doesn't understand that giving their child an apple is healthier than a Snickers bar? Some claim that past famines have influenced parents and other caregivers, especially grandparents, to overfeed their children. I believe this can largely be overcome with some simple intervention. My wife and I have constantly emphasized to my mother-in-law the importance of providing our daughter with a healthy diet, and by limiting the amount of junk food in the house, we've been successful so far. If my daughter eats a bowl of noodles and is still hungry, I offer her some chopped fruit or a sugar free yoghurt—she certainly doesn't need a second bowl of noodles. That's just common sense!

As a pastoral worker in a secondary school, I have occasionally been concerned about some children's weight. At one point, I even considered speaking to a parent about their child's blatant obesity, but my wife advised me against it, saying, "No, Gary, don't do that. Their parents will get upset." Of course, I would approach this issue in a caring and supportive manner, driven by genuine concern for the child's health and long-term well-being. I understand it would be difficult for parents to hear, but my role sometimes requires having difficult conversations with parents.

I recall a commentary a few years ago from Russia Today, and despite criticisms of this media outlet, I wholeheartedly agreed with their analysis of obesity and the UK's National Health Service (NHS). The video report argued that doctors in the UK need to stop avoiding difficult conversations with obese patients due to fear of causing 'offense'. As many know, obesity—a largely preventable ailment—is now placing a tremendous strain on the NHS, the British public's most beloved institution.

I understand that some individuals are genetically predisposed to certain conditions and there is also the consideration of 'Food deserts', but does this apply to every overweight child? I doubt it! Parents and caregivers are the ultimate authority in guiding children towards a healthy lifestyle. No one ever said parenting was easy, and I, like all parents, find it challenging. However, if you are unable to make small adjustments to help your child achieve good health, you are failing both yourself and your family.

Gary Wood is a student pastoral worker at an international school and he has lived in China for 12 years. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily. The article was first published on the Beautiful China website.

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