Federal panel: Obese kids need treatment

LOS ANGELES That's a turnaround for the U.S. preventive task force. Five years ago, it found few benefits from pediatric obesity programs.

Now, it says treating obese kids can help them lose weight if the treatment involves diet, physical activity and behavior counseling.

The panel admits that finding the right kind of treatment can e difficult and expensive, but the new recommendations could make insurance companies pay for a child's obesity treatment.