What is obesity in children?
A child with obesity has an abnormal amount of fatty tissue in the body. In order to be obese, the child's body weight must be 25 percent higher than normal, or the body mass index must be over 30. About 15 percent of children in the US are obese. The causes for obesity in children include overeating and lack of physical activity, but genetics may also play a role.

What are the symptoms of obesity in children?
Obesity in children generally causes no symptoms.

How does the doctor treat obesity in children?
Treatment for obesity in children involves a weight loss program that may include a special diet, regular exercise, behavioral therapy, and medications that diminish hunger.