The month of September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness month, and Dr. Cywes and the entire team at Jacksonville Weight Loss Center are taking the time to recognize the severity of this condition in the United States. Currently, more than 23 million children and teenagers are either obese or overweight. This is a huge portion of America’s youth. Approximately one-third of adolescents ages two to 19 are at a heightened risk of developing obesity-related diseases like type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. In addition, obesity in childhood often leads to psychological issues like low self-esteem and bullying. The severity and magnitude of this condition in the United States has prompted many physicians and medical JSAPA Weight Loss Surgery specialists to consider childhood obesity an epidemic.

National Childhood Obesity Awareness month is a great opportunity for parents, teachers, government officials and community leaders to promote healthy eating and physical fitness initiatives. By stressing the importance of nutrition and a healthy lifestyle now, we can increase the chance of more and more children developing proper dietary habits and growing up to be healthy adults. Remember, it is our responsibility as adults to set the children in our lives up for success. This means leading by example with a healthy lifestyle.

If you or your children are obese and struggling to lose weight, Dr. Cywes and his team at Jacksonville Weight Loss Center may be able to help you finally lose those excess pounds and begin living a healthier lifestyle.