There's not much debate about the statistical numbers of overweight/obese children in the United States. In fact, according to statistics, one in five children are overweight but the real reality is that the number is greater than this; one in three children are overweight or obese in the U.S. Due to this alarming number of children who are overweight or obese, weight loss camps (also known as fat camps) have increased in their popularity. Bear in mind that science data shows that kids who are obese will suffer from very adult-like diseases, another reason for the popularity in these types of camps.

Obviously there's emotional turmoil for kids who are overweight but the serious health issues are a more pressing concern. A serious health risk many children suffer with is Type 2 diabetes. More and more young obese adults are being diagnosed with this condition now that there's a connection between the two.

In the past, adults were generally diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes but many pediatricians are diagnosing teenagers with the condition as well. This disease can be managed but any effects from it are serious. Over time, Type 2 diabetes causes damage to the kidneys, blood vessels and may even lead to limb amputations and blindness. Type 2 diabetes is often spoken about at weight loss camps for kids.

When a child is overweight, there's additional stress on the body's joints, which boosts the chances of joint and muscles problems. For younger obese children, it's not uncommon for the cartilage to become damaged from the additional weight. Many obese children have poor sleeping habits since they are unable to find a good sleeping position along with breathing problems that are related with their high weight.

Do overweight children have other health risks connected to their extra body weight? They do, in fact. Obese children can suffer with cholesterol and heart disease problems, much like an adult. Obese children are two times more likely to deal with high cholesterol problems than kids of average weight. It is greatly feared among the medical community that obese children will suffer heart attacks; another big reason for the push for weight loss camps.

Many obese children live inactive lifestyles, boosting their chances of developing asthma or other breathing disorders.  While lack of exercise is one reason for the problem, it's also thought that constant exposure to dust mites and household chemicals can lead to the problem as well for the couch potatoes.

Weight loss camps for kids and teen weight loss camps greatly highlight the health problems that are associated with the extra weight. While teens and younger children may feel invincible, they are not. Obese children must know the health risks and while some do, they focus more on the emotional settings of weight loss. Weight loss camps will help your child understand the risks but as parents, it's your duty to help them stay focused on losing weight.