Vol. 2, Issue 10, Part J (2016)

Abstract
Globally, there are more than 1 billion overweight adults, at least 300 million of them obese. Obesity and overweight pose a major risk for chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and stroke, and certain forms of cancer. The key causes are increased consumption of energy-dense foods high in saturated fats and high sugar and reduced physical activity. A critical part of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, especially for children, is physical activity. It not only burns calories but also builds strong bones and muscles and helps children sleep well at night and stay alert during the day. Good habits established in childhood help adolescents maintain healthy weight despite the hormonal changes, rapid growth and social influences that often lead to overeating. And active children are more likely to become fit adults. Nurses can and should participate in health promotion and education (Sheehan and Yin, 2006) for the prevention of obesity