Media's Effect on Obesity in Kids

The AAP recommends that pediatricians ask parents of children and adolescents about media use at every well-child visit.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recent policy statement on Children, Adolescents, Obesity, and the Media addresses the emerging evidence base linking increased media time with childhood obesity. Highlights of the statement include the following:

Many longitudinal and correlational studies link excessive television viewing and obesity. Watching TV can contribute to obesity by promoting sedentary activity and decreasing physical activity, teaching unhealthy eating patterns, increasing snacking behavior, and interfering with normal sleep patterns. Further, increasing physical activity, reducing media time, and improving nutritional practices have been shown to prevent the onset of obesity and reduce the prevalence of existing obesity.

E…

Reviewing Author

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics