Childhood obesity

Seema Kumar1, Tara Kaufman2

  • 1Division of Pediatric, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA - kumar.seema@mayo.edu.

Panminerva Medica
|October 11, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Childhood obesity is a widespread public health issue. This review covers its epidemiology, clinical evaluation, and treatment options including lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Childhood obesity is a global epidemic, representing a significant public health challenge.
  • The development of excess weight in children involves complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and biological factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology of childhood obesity.
  • To outline the clinical evaluation process for children with obesity.
  • To detail a staged approach to treatment, including various therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article.
  • It synthesizes current knowledge on childhood obesity epidemiology and management.
  • Discussion includes clinical evaluation and treatment modalities.

Main Results:

  • Childhood obesity prevalence is high and increasing globally.
  • Clinical evaluation requires a comprehensive approach.
  • Treatment strategies are multifaceted, ranging from lifestyle interventions to pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of childhood obesity requires a staged, individualized treatment plan.
  • A combination of lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, and, in select cases, bariatric surgery is essential.
  • Addressing this epidemic necessitates a thorough understanding of its epidemiology and clinical presentation.

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