The Daily Telegraph – Sarrah Le Marquand
“Is it any wonder the average parent is deeply confused? Despite assumptions that tackling childhood obesity is simply a matter of “common sense”, research has found it is a little more complicated than that and modern parents need guidance as they seek to instil healthy lifestyle habits in their offspring. According to a recent review from the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, childhood obesity has doubled in prevalence since the 1980s, and now sits at more than 25 per cent. Even more ominously, according to lead researcher, Associate Professor Matt Sabin, is that, “Childhood obesity can truly be called a ‘new morbidity’. Childhood obesity has become a global crisis and is one of the world’s most pressing public health issues.” It is this — the rise in the major health risks that go hand-in-hand with growing adolescent obesity — that has those in the know calling on their fellow Australians to help avert a national disaster..”(more)