#73 Childhood Obesity

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Eamon Keogh discusses childhood obesity with Dr Grace O'Malley, Clinical Lead of the Children's Health Ireland, Child & Adolescent Complex Obesity Service. They talk about the definition, prevalence, and parental concerns regarding childhood obesity. Dr O'Malley emphasises a holistic approach to managing obesity, focusing on overall health rather than just weight loss. She highlights the importance of consulting healthcare professionals, fostering open communication and provides some top tips for parents on how to raise the topic with your child and healthcare professional. Dr O’Malley also discusses the care model and the societal support needed to address this growing health issue.

Where can parents get information?

• Information about children’s weight on the HSE A to Z website which includes information what to do if you are concerned, having the conversation with your child and advice on healthier habits as a family: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/childrens-weight/
• The HSE has a booklet called Talking to Your Child About Weight which is available on www.healthpromotion.ie
• A comprehensive list of up to date resources for parents and families available on www.childhoodobesity.ie 
• Find more information about community based services here https://youtu.be/dtXHO8_aPJE
• Information for families on healthier lifestyles such as physical activity, healthy eating, screen time is available at www.mychild.ie
• Information for families on healthy eating including recipes is available at www.safefood.eu

Where can Healthcare Professionals get information?

• Healthcare professionals can get more information including policy documents, clinical guidelines, professional organisations, research and more by visiting www.childhoodobesity.ie
• The HSE Obesity Clinical Programme is available at https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/cspd/ncps/obesity/
• Find more information about community based services here: https://youtu.be/nmwxqIe1-qg

Please get in touch to find out more about our podcast series or the work of HSE Health and Wellbeing Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie 

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