The incidence of obesity in teens is increasing at an alarming rate in the United States.

The contributing factors of obesity include genetics, metabolic physiology, environmental and psychosocial factors. Eating habits and physical inactivity patterns contribute to the increase in adolescent obesity.

In the United States, about 25 to 30% of school going children placed above the 85th percentile for BMI are considered at risk for overweight. Obesity in children is generally diagnosed when a child reaches the 95th percentile for BMI and a physical examination by a health professional.

Childhood obesity is a serious threat since about 40% of obese children become obese adults. In the short run leads to embarrassment, ridicule, and depression and in future leads to an increased risk of health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, Type- 2 diabetes and hypertension.

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