Abstract

Dr Shihabuddin has brought to our attention the significant concern regarding pediatric obesity in the United States and its implications for the future health of children as well as the impact on our healthcare system.¹ His concerns are well founded, and every physician should consider how he or she can contribute to the reversal of this trend. Personally, as the grandfather of five children younger than 7 years, I am aware that proper diet and exercise are fundamental to weight control and good health. The issue of genetics is far less clear-cut, although common sense would indicate that it must be evaluated as part of a comprehensive assessment of weight gain and health risks in children.