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Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Losing Custody of Obese Children

Obese kids are a (pardon the pun) growing problem in our nation — one too many parents turn a blind eye toward. “My kid’s not fat, just young and still developing.”

Let’s push the pause button.

Recently ABC News reported that childhood obesity expert Dr. David Ludwig put childhood obesity in the same category as abuse and requires government intervention.

“State intervention may serve the best interests of many children with life-threatening obesity, comprising the only realistic way to control harmful behavior,” said Dr. Ludwig in the Journal of the American Medical Association. “In severe instances of childhood obesity, removal from the home may be justifiable, from a legal standpoint because of imminent health risks and the parents’ chronic failure to address medical problems.”

Let the Firestorm of Controversy Begin
For example, an editorial on cafemom.com makes an interesting point. Schools across the nation have banned playground activities such as dodge ball and tag, not to mention physical education programs entirely. How are kids supposed to get and stay fit if they don’t have an school-based program to do so? Interesting point.

But is it extreme child obesity child abuse? Should these children be removed from the home? Is this the best course of action or is it going too far?

What Are Your Thoughts?
Should you lose your rights as a parent if your kids are obese? You must have an opinion — tell us your comments below.

More From WebMD
How Fit Is Your Family? Get Your Score
The Honest Way to Get Your Kid to Eat Veggies
Is Your House Obese-Proof?

Posted by: Paul Kercher at 10:43 am

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