Childhood Obesity Rates Higher in the United States Than Canada Since 1980's

Prevalence of childhood obesity more in America than Canada, though they have a lot in common, says a new study.

A recent report by the Center for Disease and Control showed that American girls aged seven to 12 were more than twice as likely to be obese compared with Canadian girls between 2009 and 2013. Childhood obesity rates were 25% higher in America than in Canada.

The obesity rates were equal(5%) in 1970's, but only during 80's and 90's the percentage of children who were obese was more pronounced in the US. The US children were at a higher risk for obesity-related problems like prediabetes, bone and joint problems, and cardiovascular diseases.

Researchers compared the health survey data dating back to 1970's by diverging it based on age and genders to target interventions at those who need them the most. 19% of children especially girls in the age 7-12 years were obese in the US. Whereas only 9% of Canadian girls were obese.

There were no differences between the boys between the age group of 3-19 years. But in the age of 7-12 years, they found that US boys were more likely to be obese than their Canadian counterparts. The study findings gave a hint at places where policymakers and doctors could focus prevention efforts.

Source: Medindia