My research focuses on the epidemiology of obesity across the lifespan with a particular interest in physical and psychosocial health consequences during adolescence. Current projects explore bidirectional associations of child mental health with obesity, and effects of early obesity on tooth eruption. Additional research foci include the development of valid survey measures and surveillance systems for pediatric obesity and proximal modifiable behaviors (nutrition, physical activity, sedentary behavior). Recent efforts have been directed towards developing the descriptive epidemiology and health promotion for children with special health care needs, a population of youth who have been underserved by preventive health efforts, (ironically) due to their complex medical needs.
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