Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – Childhood is a time for learning, growing and building the foundation for a healthy future.
Yet for many families, childhood obesity has become an increasingly common challenge that can affect a child’s physical health, emotional well-being and quality of life.
Today, childhood obesity remains one of the most significant public health concerns facing young people across the United States.
“Childhood obesity is about much more than weight,” says Santos Cantu, MD, a pediatric and emergency medicine physician and medical director of the South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s Emergency Department. “It can affect nearly every aspect of a child’s health, from their physical development and energy levels to their self-esteem and emotional well-being. The good news is that early intervention can help families make positive changes that lead to healthier outcomes.”
Nearly 15 million children and adolescents in the United States are affected by obesity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, representing approximately one in five youth nationwide.
Left unaddressed, childhood obesity can increase the risk of a variety of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep disorders and mental health challenges. It can also impact a child’s confidence, social interactions and overall quality of life.
“We’re seeing obesity-related health conditions appear at younger ages than ever before,” says Dr. Cantu. “Healthy habits that are established during childhood often carry into adulthood, making it especially important to address concerns early and give children the support they need to succeed.”
Without intervention, children affected by obesity are more likely to remain obese as adults, increasing their risk of chronic disease later in life. While the causes of childhood obesity are often complex and can be influenced by factors such as nutrition, physical activity, genetics and a child’s environment, meaningful progress is possible through education, support and consistent lifestyle changes.
By empowering families with practical strategies and reliable information, communities can help children develop healthy habits that promote lifelong wellness.
“Parents and caregivers play a critical role in shaping healthy behaviors,” says Dr. Cantu. “Small changes, such as encouraging nutritious meals, limiting screen time and creating opportunities for regular physical activity, can have a lasting impact on a child’s health and future well-being.”
To help families better understand childhood obesity and learn ways to support healthy growth, STHS Children’swill dedicate its upcoming Let’s Talk Children’s Health webinar to the topic.
Broadcast live on the STHS Children’s Facebook page on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the free virtual seminar will provide parents and caregivers with expert guidance on childhood obesity, including its causes, potential health impacts and practical strategies for fostering healthier lifestyles.
For more information about the webinar, visit the STHS Children’s Facebook Events page. To watch previous Let’s Talk Children’s Health seminars, visit STHSLetsTalk.com.
| Who: | South Texas Health System Children’s |
| What: | FREE virtual seminar entitled “Let’s Talk Children’s Health – Childhood Obesity” |
| When: | Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. |
| Where: | Online via STHS Children’s & STHS’ Facebook pages |
