Authors

  1. Hoeman, Laura D. MN, ARNP

Overview

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of obesity among adolescents ages 12 to 19 has soared in recent decades, from 5% in 1980 to 16% in 2002. Recent neuroendocrinologic research may help to explain the complexity of obesity and help providers develop more effective weight-loss strategies. Combining medical intervention with an individualized cognitive-behavioral program is the best approach for adolescents. Accompanying sidebars examine several such programs and provide additional resources for clinicians.