Child Obesity Specialist

Pediatrics of Long Island

Pediatrics located in Brentwood, NY & Patchogue, NY

Nearly 15% of children between the ages of 10 and 17 in the state of New York are obese, which may affect their health later in life. At Pediatrics of Long Island in Brentwood and Patchogue, New York, experienced pediatric physicians Ramon Ferrand, MD, and Alaaeldin Moawad, MD, take a proactive approach to pediatric health and specialize in childhood obesity. They closely monitor your child’s weight and height and make appropriate referrals when needed. To schedule an appointment with the experienced physicians, call the office or use the online tool today.

Child Obesity Q&A

What is childhood obesity?

Child obesity means your child’s weight is greater than normal for their height and age. Dr. Ferrand and Dr. Moawad use the body mass index (BMI) to monitor your child’s weight and risk of obesity.

The BMI is a mathematical equation that provides a general guideline for how your child’s weight compares to their height. Your pediatrician then uses a BMI-for-age growth chart to determine your child’s BMI percentile for their age.

A BMI between the 85th and 94th percentiles indicates your child is overweight, while a BMI greater than the 95th percentile indicates your child is obese.

What are the health complications of childhood obesity?

Child obesity may affect your child’s physical, emotional, and social health. Common health complications related to childhood obesity include:

Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Asthma
Sleep disorders
Poor self-esteem
Depression
Behavior and learning problems

Your child’s weight is primarily influenced by lifestyle choices, specifically not enough physical activity and consuming more calories than they need. However, genetics and hormones may also be a factor in your child’s weight struggles.

What can I expect during a child obesity evaluation?

If you have concerns about your child’s weight, the pediatricians at Pediatrics of Long Island can help. You can expect a comprehensive and compassionate evaluation when you come in for care.

Dr. Ferrand and Dr. Moawad at Pediatrics of Long Island assess your child’s BMI during their annual wellness exam. Your pediatrician compares the current BMI to previous measurements to monitor for changes. If your child’s BMI is steadily climbing, your pediatrician has referrals available to help you and your child get healthy.

In addition to assessing your child’s BMI, your pediatrician may ask detailed questions about your child’s activity, diet, and medical history. Blood tests may also be requested to check blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as hormone imbalances associated with obesity.

How is child obesity treated?

The general goal for child obesity isn’t to lose weight or follow a calorie-restricted diet, but to encourage more activity and healthier food choices to prevent excessive weight gain and improve overall health and wellness.

Child obesity increases the risk of future health problems. To get the help you need to support your child’s health and weight, call Pediatrics of Long Island or book an appointment through the online tool today.

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