Obesity, Children, Medications, and Pharmacy

Abstract

Childhood obesity is an epidemic in America. From 1999 to 2005, the number of hospitalizations for children aged 2 to 19 years nearly doubled. In 2000, the total cost of obesity was $117 billion. Causes of obesity include diet, lifestyle, food advertisements, and genetics. Complications include heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory problems and cancer. Obesity can also hinder social growth. Although the government has established standards for school lunch menus, these are often not met due to government subsidized pork, beef, and dairy products sold to schools at discounted prices. Children are sometimes prescribed medications, such as metformin and orlistat, for weight loss. The American Academy of Pediatrics stated that more children should be taking medications for obesity. Many experts, though, do not agree with this view. Pharmacists are in an ideal position to provide help to children and parents, because they are readily available and knowledgeable.