[Overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescence. Is prevention possible?]

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents is increasing. In Germany, 10-20% of children and youth are overweight and obese. Childhood obesity is associated with cardiovascular and other comorbidities. 25% suffer from arterial hypertension and/or hypercholesterolemia, 1% from diabetes mellitus type 2. In addition, one third suffer from orthopedic and psychosocial disorders.Therefore, countermeasures are necessary. Kindergarten or school settings offer a possibility for preventive measures. Results, however, are inconsistent and depend on several factors such as socioeconomic status, parental integration, etc. To counteract the epidemic of obesity, national and international data should be collected, results and recommendations adapted to individual necessities of different settings. The implementation of such strategies is only possible with a combined and qualified procedure by a concerted and qualified action of all health care employees based on adequate political structures.