Obesity and overweight are fast becoming a significant health issue all over the world and Chile is no exception to this trend. According to the National Board of School Assistance and Scholarships (JUNAEB by its Spanish acronym), this country has seen a steady rise of childhood obesity in recent years. For example, in 2010, 23.1% of first-grade children were obese, up from 17.3% in 2004. Studies carried out by the Chilean Educational Quality System (SIMCE by its Spanish acronym) have shown that 25% of eight-grade children are overweight, while 15.2% are obese.
To address this problem, Clínica Alemana has launched a program to combat Overweight and Obesity in Children and Teenagers known as "Crecer Liviano" (Growing Up Light). This plan aims to provide integral care to obese or overweight children and teenagers, including treatment of related illnesses such as insulin resistance syndrome, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, high blood pressure and fatty liver disease.
A multidisciplinary team of pediatricians, specialists in nutritional medicine, nutritionists, psychologists and physiotherapists examine patients and provide a comprehensive evaluation of the biomedical, physical and psychological factors which affect their health and which should be treated early in order to prevent complications.
Dr. Vivian Rybertt, the specialist in childhood nutrition who is in charge of this initiative, explains that, "this program, involving both patients and their families, is mainly designed to encourage the practice and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle."
The program lasts for six months and includes evaluation and follow-up sessions by the various specialists in this field. In the first consultation, the best treatment option is established according to the specific needs of each person.
If expected results are to be met, children and adolescents must have the support of the whole family throughout the process, especially during those difficult moments when more willpower is required. As Dr. Rybertt stresses, "the commitment of patients and the people around them is crucial for the success of the program."
