Location And Tough Neighborhoods Link To Teen Obesity And Reduced Cognitive Learning

Obesity is one of the growing concerns among teens. The rate of overweight or obese children continues to grow. According to new reports, one's location matters in teen obesity.

Teen In Poor Neighborhoods At Higher Risk Of Obesity

According to MedicalXpress teens residing in disadvantaged neighborhoods are at higher risk of obesity and reduced cognitive ability. The researchers learned that adolescent girls are more likely than boys to become obese.

Steven Alvarado defined the disadvantaged neighborhood as a constellation of factors, which includes the percentage of unemployed residents or out of workforce, professionals and those with a college degree and are living in poverty. It also considers the neighborhood's median income and housing value.

According to Alvarado, the lack of jobs, opportunities and growing role models are among the factors that influence these unlikely results. "Does the neighborhood have a playground? Is there a park? Is there a library? Are there social influences to exercise or eat certain foods? All these things form the opportunity structure for children to develop both physically and cognitively," he said.

Childhood Obesity Prevalent In The U.S.

According to CDC, 17 percent or 12.7 million of children and adolescents aged 12 to 19 are obese. Meanwhile, in 2013, Childhood Obesity Foundation reported that 42 million infants and young children were overweight or obese worldwide. The number is expected to rise to 70 million by 2025.

To help control obesity, Alvarado suggested a potential solution for the problem. "Reforms like putting a jungle gym or a tutoring program in a neighborhood lack a tie-in to a specific poor person or family. They are a public good and benefit everyone. That's one reason why they may have potential for political traction," he said.

This study is the first national study to examine the long-term effects of neighborhood disadvantage on obesity and cognitive development in kids as they grow into teens. The results of the study are published in Social Science Research.