Childhood obesity

 

Childhood obesity is a major health problem which can continue into adulthood and is associated with serious medical complications including type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk factors, sleep apnoea and musculoskeletal pain.

 

It is also associated with psychosocial problems such as low self-esteem, depression and problems with peer relations.

Did you know?

• Australia-wide data suggests that 19 to 23 per cent of Australian school children are either overweight or obese.
• Obesity rates have trebled in children and young adults in Australia over the last 20 years.

Our research
Our research aims to identify the various biopsychosocial factors that contribute to the development and persistence of childhood obesity, to allow us to develop appropriate prevention and intervention strategies for specific groups of children.

 

Our study currently has 486 school-aged children taking part and we are collecting height and weight data and looking at a range of factors suggested to influence childhood obesity including biological, psychosocial and social/environmental factors.  In 2007, we carried out a range of initial and follow-up assessments on 446 of the children including final three-year assessments with 188 of them.  

 

In 2007, we also began the collection of genetic information or DNA from the study children and their parents.  This information will allow us to look for any genetic factors which may contribute to childhood overweight and obesity.