Did you know that America has a growing problem that is now believed to have reached epidemic proportions? That epidemic is childhood obesity. Obesity is a condition in which an individual has an excessive amount of body fat. Some individuals may also be called morbidly obese depending on how overweight they are. A child's height, weight, and age can be measured by the doctor, who can determine whether it is above the normal range. Children are considered obese if their body mass index (BMI) falls within the 95th percentile range. That would make the average weight for 12- to 13-year-olds 85 to 100 pounds. The range for girls would be between 95 and 105 pounds. There are several theories about the causes of obesity. Here I will list some of the possible causes, some of the health risks, and what can be done to help prevent obesity in our children. Let's take a look at poverty. Most families in the lower and poorer income bracket purchase cheaper branded food products for their family, which are not necessarily the healthiest foods to eat. These foods are normally higher in sugar, sodium, calories and more (book Frances M. Berg, MS, LN. Underage & Overweight America's Child Obesity Crisis what every family needs to know). Some doctors believe that the main culprits of childhood obesity are fast food and poor eating habits. Low-priced fast food, weekly specials and discounts on large meals seem to be a quick and easy solution for parents on the go. But by eating these salty, high-calorie foods we pay, and our children pay with their health. In addition to fast food ploys, there are candy and soda vending machines at local schools instead of healthier options. Concerns for our children and setting an example are growing. When we have snacks, let the children see us eat fresh fruit and vegetables. When you're active, let them see and join us on a walk, jog or run. Anyone who does something will have a lasting impact. Works Cited: ABC World News, anchor Diane Sawyer and ..aired 07/13/2011 Berg, Frances M., Afraid to Eat, copyright 1997, published by Healthy Weight Journal 402 /south 14 Street, Hettinger, ND 58639CDC http ://www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood/data.html) By: Ruskin, Gary; Schor, Juliet. Nation, 08/29/2005, vol. 281 Issue 6, p15-17, 2p, http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?sid=9134453b-621d-4e1a-8246-2334b5cf0988%40sessionmgr111&vid=4&hid=119&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3 d #db= aph&AN=17928881Anziano, Gerri L. http://www.chapter7.com/recession-could-cause-health-crisishttp://www.google.com/search?q=kids+activity+pyramid&hl