Ascension helps dad and mom in constructing wholesome way of life habits for teenagers

Pediatric weight problems is a rising concern throughout the nation, affecting almost one in 5 youngsters and teenagers within the United States. In Florida, 17 % of youth ages 6 to 17 reside with weight problems, in keeping with the State of Childhood Obesity and the National Survey of Children’s Health.

At Ascension St. Vincent’s in Jacksonville, pediatrician Deborah A. Weyer, MD, works intently with households to acknowledge threat elements early and supply personalised, supportive care. Dr. Weyer is understood for her compassionate, personalised strategy. She helps households develop care plans that assist every kid’s household way of life in addition to bodily, emotional, and social well-being.

Why pediatric weight problems issues

Over the previous few a long time, childhood weight problems charges have greater than doubled in youthful youngsters and tripled in adolescents. Without early intervention, many youngsters proceed to battle with weight into maturity. Research reveals that greater than half of at this time’s youngsters could possibly be affected by weight problems by age 35 if present tendencies proceed.

Obesity will increase the chance for severe well being circumstances, together with hypertension, excessive ldl cholesterol, sort 2 diabetes, joint ache, and sleep issues. Emotional well being can be affected, with many youngsters experiencing low vanity, despair, or anxiousness, particularly in the event that they face bullying or social isolation.

Prevention begins with common care

At Ascension St. Vincent’s, pediatricians embody childhood weight problems prevention as a part of each well-child go to. During these checkups, suppliers monitor development and physique mass index, share sensible tips about vitamin, exercise, sleep, and display screen time, and display screen for early indicators of weight-related well being issues. All steerage is tailor-made to your loved ones’s way of life and targets. These conversations are guided by encouragement and care, not stress or judgment.

What to count on in case your youngster is in danger

When a baby reveals indicators of elevated threat for pediatric weight problems, our care staff takes a proactive and compassionate strategy. Depending in your kid’s wants, the care plan could contain lab assessments to verify blood stress, ldl cholesterol, or blood sugar ranges. Your pediatrician might also advocate referrals to a registered dietitian or behavioral well being supplier to assist your kid’s bodily and emotional well being. Regular follow-up visits permit suppliers to trace progress and make changes to care targets as your youngster grows and develops.

Dr. Weyer and several other pediatricians at Ascension St. Vincent’s are board-certified and have acquired extra coaching by the American Board of Obesity Medicine. This displays our dedication to offering specialised, evidence-based care for kids and teenagers residing with weight problems.

Supporting lasting wholesome habits

Helping youngsters construct wholesome habits early is likely one of the simplest methods to assist lifelong wellness. According to Dr. Weyer, even small modifications can result in significant outcomes. Choosing water as an alternative of sugary drinks, encouraging every day motion and energetic play, sharing meals as a household, and creating constant sleep and display screen time routines are all examples of easy shifts that may make a distinction. Whether your youngster is simply starting their care journey or already making progress, our staff is right here to assist your loved ones at each step.

Care that facilities on your loved ones

Pediatric weight problems is a posh difficulty, however you aren’t alone. At Ascension St. Vincent’s, we offer care that focuses on the entire household, understanding your kid’s wants and serving to your loved ones make constructive, sustainable modifications. At Ascension St. Vincent’s, we provide 24/7 emergency care when your youngster wants it most. Our emergency rooms present compassionate, family-centered care from skilled healthcare professionals proper in your neighborhood. 

To discover pediatric emergency care or schedule a follow-up go to ascension.org/StVincentsPediatrics.