Start Date
April 2025
Location
2nd floor - Library
Abstract
Health Disparities associated with obese children living in low-income households
Gizelle Gherbi
Xavier University (OH)
Abstract
Childhood obesity is a complex public health issue influenced by various socioeconomic factors. As of 2024, approximately 19.7% of children were identified as chronically obese in the United States (CDC, 2024). Notably, children from low-income families are immensely affected by obesity, with a prevalence of 18.9% which is significantly higher than their more affluent counterparts with a prevalence of 10.9% (Kim et al., 2020). Beyond physical health consequences, childhood obesity is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including an increased risk of depression, anxiety, bullying, and low self-esteem. This poster explores the intersectionality of childhood obesity and socioeconomic disparities, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities faced by low-income children. Addressing these health disparities requires an application of wide-ranging strategies that consider both individual and community-level interventions to promote equitable health outcomes. In addition, social determinants of health that contribute to these inequities and associated solutions will be described to educate individuals about this critical health issue to increase the likelihood of them acting to resolve it.
Health Disparities associated with obese children living in low-income households
2nd floor - Library
Health Disparities associated with obese children living in low-income households
Gizelle Gherbi
Xavier University (OH)
Abstract
Childhood obesity is a complex public health issue influenced by various socioeconomic factors. As of 2024, approximately 19.7% of children were identified as chronically obese in the United States (CDC, 2024). Notably, children from low-income families are immensely affected by obesity, with a prevalence of 18.9% which is significantly higher than their more affluent counterparts with a prevalence of 10.9% (Kim et al., 2020). Beyond physical health consequences, childhood obesity is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including an increased risk of depression, anxiety, bullying, and low self-esteem. This poster explores the intersectionality of childhood obesity and socioeconomic disparities, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities faced by low-income children. Addressing these health disparities requires an application of wide-ranging strategies that consider both individual and community-level interventions to promote equitable health outcomes. In addition, social determinants of health that contribute to these inequities and associated solutions will be described to educate individuals about this critical health issue to increase the likelihood of them acting to resolve it.
