Search Results

Preventing Obesity in Children, Teens, and Adults Facts about obesity Obesity is a long-term (chronic) disease. It affects growing numbers of children, teens, and adults. Obesity rates among children in the U.S. have doubled since 1980. They have tripled for teens. About 19 out

Anatomy of the Skin Facts about the skin The skin is the body's largest organ. It covers the entire body. It serves as a protective shield against heat, light, injury, and infection. The skin also: Regulates body temperature Stores water and fat Is a sensory organ Prevents water

Shoulder Pain and Problems What are shoulder problems? Shoulder pain and problems are common. There are many types of shoulder problems that are caused by injuries and sudden (acute) or long-lasting (chronic) inflammation of the shoulder joint. The shoulder is a complex joint

Headaches in Children What is a headache in children? A headache is pain or discomfort in one or more areas of the head or face. Headaches can happen once in a while. Or they may happen often. Headaches are often divided into two groups, based on what causes them: Primary

Sprains and Strains in Children What are sprains and strains in children? Sprains and strains are types of injuries. A sprain is an injury to a ligament while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Ligaments and tendons are made of fibrous tissue. They connect different

Kyphosis What is kyphosis? A normal spine, when viewed from behind, appears straight. However, a spine affected by kyphosis has a forward curvature of the back bones (vertebrae) in the upper back area, giving an abnormally rounded or humpback appearance. This is sometimes known

The Digestive System: An Overview What is digestion? Food and drink must be changed into smaller molecules of nutrients to be absorbed into the blood and carried to cells throughout the body. Digestion is the process by which food and liquid are broken down into smaller parts

Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura in Children What is immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in children? ITP is a blood disorder that causes a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets help stop bleeding. So a decrease in platelets can result in easy bruising

Bicycling, Inline Skating, Skateboarding, and Scooter Safety—Prevention Buying the right bike It's important that the bike your child rides is the right size. In addition, consider the following advice: The bike shouldn't be too big or complicated. Your child should be able to

Inguinal Hernia What is an inguinal hernia? An inguinal hernia is when part of your intestine pushes through a weak spot in your lower belly (abdominal) wall. This area is called the groin. The hernia creates a lump in your groin. Over time, the hernia may get bigger. Most