Invited Commentary: Childhood and Adolescent Obesity: Psychological and Behavioral Issues in Weight Loss Treatment |
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Authors: | David B Sarwer Rebecca J Dilks |
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Institution: | (1) Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 3535 Market St., Suite 3121, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3309, USA |
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Abstract: | The prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity has tripled in the past three decades. This increase has been accompanied
by a dramatic rise in obesity-related health complications among American youth. Thus, many obese youth are now experiencing
illnesses that will threaten their life expectancy in the absence of significant weight loss. Despite these concerns, a relatively
modest body of research has focused on the treatment of adolescent obesity. Results from trials investigating the efficacy
of behavioral and pharmacological treatments, like studies of these interventions with adults, suggest that individuals typically
lose 5–10% of their initial weight. Unfortunately, weight regain is common. Given the increase in the number of obese adolescents,
coupled with the modest results from more conservative treatment approaches, it is not surprising that bariatric surgery for
adolescents who suffer from extreme obesity has grown in popularity. The weight losses after surgery are impressive and many
adolescents, like adults, experience significant improvements in their physical and mental health postoperatively. However,
only a small fraction of adolescents and adults who are heavy enough for bariatric surgery present for surgical treatment.
Among those who undergo surgery, a significant minority appear to struggle with a number of behavioral and psychosocial issues
that threaten their lifelong success. With all of this in mind, the current obesity problem in the United States and other
Westernized countries likely will present a significant challenge to both current and future medical and mental health professionals
who work with adolescents and young adults. |
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