Which condition is closely associated with obesity in children?

Breathing problems are closely associated with obesity in children due to the physical strain that excess weight places on the body, particularly on the respiratory system. Children who are overweight or obese may experience an increased risk of conditions such as sleep apnea, asthma, and other breathing difficulties. This is largely attributed to the accumulation of fat around the neck and chest, which can obstruct the airways and impair normal respiratory function. Additionally, obese children often have reduced lung volume and respiratory muscle strength, leading to further complications in their ability to breathe effectively during physical activities.

The other options, while they may relate to childhood development and health, do not have the same direct link to obesity. For instance, an excessive focus on academics may stem from various personal or cultural factors and does not inherently relate to a child’s weight status. Greater social skills can be influenced by many aspects of a child's life and are not specifically tied to obesity. Athletic injuries, while they can occur in any child engaging in sports regardless of weight, are not directly caused by obesity as a major underlying condition. Therefore, the association between obesity and breathing problems is well-documented and critical for understanding the health challenges faced by obese children.