Childhood obesity surge prompts experts to warn against screen time and poor diet

Health professionals in Turkey say childhood obesity is a growing public‑health threat. Dietitian Buse Uzun Özdemir stresses that families must model balanced nutrition and regular movement rather than imposing restrictive diets. Pediatric endocrinologist Murat Doğan adds that prolonged screen use reduces physical activity and encourages hidden calorie intake, making inactivity a key driver of excess weight.

Both experts note that excess weight in children raises the risk of type‑2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular problems, and can affect confidence, academic performance and social relationships. They call for parents to limit screen time, ensure regular meals, increase fruit and vegetable intake, and promote daily outdoor play or sport as a collective, family‑centered approach.