Study traces roots of obesity in Hispanic children

A new CNRC study, Viva la Familia, is tracking down the reasons why weight problems are more common among Hispanic children.

According to government statistics, childhood obesity has increased significantly in the United States over the past 10 years and is highest among Hispanic boys and girls.

"Obese children are more likely to suffer additional health problems like insulin-resistant diabetes, high blood pressure, and orthopedic disorders," said Dr. Nancy Butte, a CNRC energy expert and Baylor associate professor of pediatrics.

While environmental factors such as diet and physical activity certainly affect weight gain, the fact that obesity tends to run in families suggests that genetic factors are also involved.

"Yet, while much has been written about children who are overweight, little is known about why Hispanic children in particular tend to be more at risk for obesity," Butte said.

To help find the answer, Butte is inviting Houston-area Hispanic families to join Viva la Familia. In addition to interviewing children about their diets, and measuring their physical fitness levels, metabolic rate, and physical activity patterns, the study involves body composition measurements of the entire family and genetic screening that looks for factors linked to obesity among related individuals.

Butte believes that the genetic screening results could one day lead to tests that enable health professionals to step in and help at-risk children long before excess pounds start adding up.

And, by providing insight into these children’s diet and physical activity habits, the study’s individual and family profiles could lead to improved programs that treat obese children and prevent obesity in their siblings.

"Identifying tools that help prevent childhood obesity is critical," Butte said. "But equally important, we need learn how to help obese children and their families make permanent lifestyle changes that improve the child’s weight status."

"Because for many obese children, weight loss alone can reverse health problems associated with obesity," she said.