With childhood obesity rates continuing to rise in the United States, there are efforts parents can take to help their own children, as well as systemic changes that can tackle this growing issue, according to a Mayo Clinic pediatrician. Dr. Brian Lynch is an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Mayo Clinic , and one of his focus areas is on the prevention of childhood obesity. He said obesity is a big problem right now for kids, leading to health concerns down the road like heart conditions