Obesity among urban children

Obesity is increasing among urban children of Bangladesh. As such, the country is facing the 'dual burden' of both malnutrition among the poor and obesity among the affluent children at the same time.

Most schools in Dhaka city do not have playgrounds. So the urban children hardly get a chance to engage in sports and related activities.

Obesity increases the risk of diseases like hypertension, diabetes and more. Besides risks of diseases, obese children and adults feel marginalised in society. They usually suffer from a lack of confidence.

Parents need to be aware of standard weight and height that is proportionate with age of children. That way, they will know if their child is overweight or underweight. With proper diet, change in lifestyle one can change one's weight and maintain it.

It is high time that urban residents became conscious about the health of their children and themselves. They need to remember that a healthy parent begets a healthy child.

Sojol Chowdhury

Niketon, Dhaka