In 2022, one in eight people globally lived with obesity with 37 million children under the age of five and 390 million children being classified as overweight. Childhood obesity is a concerning condition because of the chronic diseases it exposes younger demographics to most of which drastically impact their quality of life for decades to come. As prevention is always better than cure, the education of parents assists in ensuring that statistics like those previously mentioned can be drastically reduced.
Educating patients on the treatment of obesity
Obesity stems from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure but can be exacerbated by factors like genetic predispositions and psychosocial issues. The condition can heighten the risk people face for chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases that require long-term care. In young children, beyond the stigma of obesity, the early onset of chronic disease can be a constant and costly burden carried into adulthood.
It is in the hands of GPs and pediatricians to educate parents early on about the risk of obesity in children and how to create a well-balanced, healthy lifestyle for their children. Through adequate resources, parents can implement early interventions that benefit their children in the long run without the risk of imposing harmful ideals around body image and nutrition.
Ideas for using HIPAA compliant email to improve childhood obesity awareness
Provide personalized health tips
- Based on patient data, send personalized emails to parents whose children may be at higher risk for obesity due to family history or BMI.
- Before this is communicated through email, providers should take steps to inform patients in face to face or over the phone discussions so that health tips supplement existing communications.
Promote obesity prevention programs and events
- GPs and pediatricians can inform families about local and virtual events focused on promoting physical activity in children in a way that is fun and engaging.
- In cases where children are diagnosed with obesity, providers can promote online resources like webinars with nutritionists and mental health professionals to provide adequate support.
Encourage two way communication
- HIPAA compliant email is a great medium for encouraging patients to ask specific questions and receive personalized responses directly from their child's provider.
- Topics used can cover eating habits, health concerns, and advice for healthily managing the prevention of obesity.
Raise awareness on mental health and obesity stigma
- While GPs and pediatricians might not be able to fully support mental healthcare, through targeted referrals they can direct parents to mental health practitioners who can care for the child's emotional well being.
Related: Top 12 HIPAA compliant email services
FAQs
Which organizations should handle health awareness programs in schools?
In the US it is commonly handled by school districts and nonprofits like the American Heart Association.
When can minors consent to their treatments based on federal legislation?
Minors can consent to their treatments in cases like sexual and mental health or when they are emancipated. This consent can differ based on state legislation.
What is legislative preemption?
Legislative preemption occurs when a higher level of government overrides or limits the ability of local governments to enact their laws.
Kirsten Peremore
