Treating Adolescent Obesity.
Obesity's genetic, metabolic, behavioral, and environmental influences make the disorder difficult, but not impossible, to manage. Treatment at an early age is crucial, as 80% of obese adolescents will become obese adults, and are unlikely to "outgrow" obesity on their own. The author describes some of the current notions about the etiology of obesity, associated medical risks, and behavioral and medical treatments available for obese adolescents.
Berkowitz
RI
Director, Weight and Eating Disorders Research, Child Guidance Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 34th Street and Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.