Comment:
It is important to address the issue of childhood obesity, especially when it is caused by parental influence. The 5-year old girl with normal weight and obese parents is a common scenario and highlights the need for early intervention. The health provider should perform additional nutritional screening, beyond standard height, weight, and BMI measurements, by asking specific questions related to the child’s diet, screen time, and sleep habits. These questions not only assess the child’s current health status but also provide an opportunity to educate the parents about healthy habits that can improve the overall health of the family. The use of a food diary is an excellent tool for monitoring the child’s and parents’ eating habits over time and promoting positive changes. It is crucial for parents to model healthy eating behaviors, such as eating at the table and avoiding using food as a reward, as they play a key role in shaping a child’s eating habits and weight (Pietrobelli & Agosti, 2017).
References:
Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2015). Seidel’s guide to physical examination. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.
Pietrobelli, A., & Agosti, M. (2017). The role of parents in shaping childhood obesity. Current Obesity Reports, 6(1), 9-17.