“This may be the first generation where children die at a younger age than their parents and is primarily linked to the obesity problem.” Judy Davis. Childhood obesity is certainly not a new term, but it has become increasingly popular in recent years. Some are calling childhood obesity the next “national epidemic,” it sounds pretty scary especially when it affects younger Americans. Obesity is one of the easiest medical conditions to recognize but it is the most difficult to treat. Overweight children are 10 times more likely to become overweight adults unless they change their eating habits and physical activity. (“Childhood obesity. Page 1). 30% of obesity in adults begins in childhood, obesity is also said to be the cause of 300,000 deaths per year and costs society approximately $100 billion per year. Today, approximately one-third of American children and adolescents are considered overweight or obese, a nearly triple size since 1963 (“Childhood Obesity.” Page 1). Obesity is causing numerous health problems that are typically not seen until adulthood. Childhood obesity can affect a child's physical, emotional and social well-being. Overweight children, compared to children of a healthy weight, are more likely to develop health problems. A child who suffers from obesity is at greater risk of having high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which are associated with heart disease in adults. (“Childhood.” Page 2.) These contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can cause the arteries to narrow and harden, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke later. Obese teenagers are more likely to have prediabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels indicate a high risk of developing diabetes... half of the article... than children who were teased for being in overweight were more likely to have poor body image, low self-esteem and symptoms of depression. The study's results found that 26 percent of adolescents who were teased at school and at home reported having considered suicide, and 9 percent had attempted it. (“Obesity” page 1) Some overweight children may begin to eat emotionally, instead of finding comfort in their peers they turn to the enemy, the food that adds more calories to their plate. Researchers say that regardless of age, carrying around extra weight has its psychological consequences ("Childhood Obesity Take" pg. 1). “It's not simply being overweight that leads to depression,” said Eric Storch of the University of South Flordia's Department of Pediatrics and Psychiatry. “Being overweight and getting a lot of bullshit from peers leads to anxiety or depression..”