The fastest growing group of obese people in the U.S. is teenagers. The journal “Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine” published the result of an investigation, informing that overweight is prevalent in 10 to 12% among 13 year old teenagers and obesity is prevalent in 14 to 15% among 15 year old teenager, this shows the progressive nature of the disease.

Obesity can be diagnosed and corrected early in life. However, parents often underestimate the condition and some may even consider it normal. Either because they may confuse obesity and good nourishment or because parents are also obese and “it’s a family thing”. In some cases, this condition can be corrected as the child grows, but it is more likely to be progressive. We are currently seeing obese children and teenagers developing adult diseases, such as high cholesterol and triglycerides, high blood pressure, joint disease, and many others. If obesity persists in the adolescent years, by the time the person reaches adulthood, obesity will be severe (Class II obesity) or even lethal (class III obesity). By this time, the affected youngster may have tried many diets with no success.

The Adjustable Gastric Band system is an ideal procedure for adolescents willing to live in a healthier weight. The teenager could achieve its normal weight range in a period of 2 to 4 years after the procedure. This means that if the teenager understand the principle of the adjustable band and support is given by family, may be reaching the adult age within its ideal weight range, this will improve not only the physical area of life, but the emotional and behavioral as well, bringing better social, personal and professional options.