ABSTRACT
The prevalence of childhood obesity has steadily increased over the last decades with approximately 35% of children aged 6-19 classied as overweight or obese [1]. Recently, a plateau in the increasing rates of obesity has been observed [2]. Despite this leveling off, overweight and obese children are heavier than they have ever been, putting them at increased risk for consequences associated with obesity [1]. If left unabated, obesity will become the most common cause of preventable death in adults [3]. Given the implications of childhood obesity, there is a pressing need for health professionals to possess a clear understanding of this epidemic. This chapter will present information on the denition, assessment, consequences, and treatment of childhood obesity.
