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Updated: Nov 19, 2025
Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Children-Clinical Prevalence and Risk Factors
Agnieszka Jankowska1, Michał Brzeziński1, Anna Romanowicz-Sołtyszewska2
1Department of Paediatrics, Gastroenterology, Allergology and Paediatric Nutrition, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-462 Gdańsk, Poland.
Insights
Identifying risk factors for metabolic syndrome (MetS) in obese children is crucial. Male sex, parental obesity, low birth weight, and skipping meals are key predictors, some of which are modifiable.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern.
- Obese children are at increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS).
- Identifying modifiable risk factors for MetS in children is essential for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predisposing factors for metabolic syndrome in obese children.
- To focus on modifiable risk factors for MetS in this population.
Main Methods:
- Study included 591 obese Caucasian children aged 10-12 years from Gdańsk, Poland.
- Methods involved clinical examination, anthropometry, biometric impedance analysis, blood tests (OGTT, insulinemia), and lifestyle assessments (diet, physical activity).
Main Results:
- Risk factors for MetS in obese children included male sex, parental obesity (especially paternal), and low birth weight.
- Omitting breakfast or dinner were significant dietary risk factors.
- Few risk factors for MetS were identified, highlighting the importance of these specific predictors.
Conclusions:
- Predisposing factors for metabolic syndrome in obese children are identifiable.
- Modifiable lifestyle factors, such as regular meal patterns, are crucial for reducing MetS risk.
- Intervention targeting these factors can improve long-term health outcomes and quality of life in obese children.
Abstract:
The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing worldwide. Some obese children can go on to develop metabolic syndrome (MetS), but exactly who among them remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to indicate predisposing factors for metabolic syndrome, especially those that can be modified. The study comprised 591 obese children aged 10-12 years. They were all Caucasian residents of Gdańsk, Poland, with similar demographic backgrounds. Clinical examination, anthropometry, biometric impedance analysis, blood tests (including oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) and insulinemia), and dietary and physical activity evaluation were conducted. The results of our study show that the risk factors for MetS or any of its components include male sex, parental (especially paternal) obesity, low body mass at birth, as well as omitting breakfast or dinner. There are few risk factors for metabolic syndrome both in obese adults and children. Some of these predictors can be modified, especially those in relation to lifestyle. Identifying and then influencing these factors may help to reduce the development of metabolic syndrome and consequently improve health and quality of life.
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