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The Continued Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric Obesity: A Commentary on the Return to a Healthy New “Normal”

Author

Listed:
  • Eileen Chaves

    (Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43205, USA)

  • Sheethal D. Reddy

    (Children’s Pediatric Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA)

  • Adelle Cadieux

    (Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA)

  • Jessica Tomasula

    (WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh, NC 27610, USA)

  • Kimberly Reynolds

    (Institute on Development and Disability, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA)

Abstract

Two years into this pandemic, mental health symptoms are more prevalent in children and adolescents, routine wellness visits have decreased, individuals and families are experiencing increased stress, and food and nutrition insecurity are on the rise. Pediatric overweight and obesity are yet another health condition that has been impacted by the pandemic. The current commentary aims to (a) summarize a variety of factors contributing to worsening obesity and healthy lifestyle choices in youth throughout the pandemic and to (b) provide recommendations for healthcare providers on navigating this challenge. Specific health behaviors, such as increased sedentary behavior, decreased physical activity, a change to families’ home-food environments, and an increase in sleep dysregulation have contributed to increased weight gain in children and adolescents. As uncertainty continues with the advent of various COVID-19 variants, it remains important to consider how the pandemic has impacted pediatric overweight and obesity.

Suggested Citation

  • Eileen Chaves & Sheethal D. Reddy & Adelle Cadieux & Jessica Tomasula & Kimberly Reynolds, 2022. "The Continued Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric Obesity: A Commentary on the Return to a Healthy New “Normal”," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(9), pages 1-8, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:9:p:5597-:d:808653
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Ares, Gastón & Bove, Isabel & Vidal, Leticia & Brunet, Gerónimo & Fuletti, Darío & Arroyo, Álvaro & Blanc, María Victoria, 2021. "The experience of social distancing for families with children and adolescents during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Uruguay: Difficulties and opportunities," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 121(C).
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