canadian boys have increased from 11% in the 1980s to over 30% in the 1990s, while during this same time period rates increased from 4 to 14% in brazilian children. as with obesity in adults many different factors contribute to the rising rates of childhood obesity. changing diet and decreasing physical activity are believed to be the two most important in causing the recent increase in the rate of obesity. activities from self-propelled transport, to school physical education, and organized sports has been declining in many countries. because childhood obesity often persists into adulthood, and is associated with numerous chronic illnesses, it is important that children who are obese be tested for hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver. treatments used in children are primarily lifestyle interventions and behavioral techniques. medications are not fda approved for use in this age group.