Being an overweight/obese child has an enormous impact on physical, mental, and emotional health along with social and overall development. Research has shown overweight/obese youths have a higher risk of chronic conditions such as asthma, hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, bone/joint problems, sleep apnea, and even certain types of cancer. Equally important is the emerging health concern of metabolic syndrome among American youths, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.