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Updated: Jul 30, 2025

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Obesity Management in Children and Adolescents
Gunther Wong1, Gitanjali Srivastava1
1Department of Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine; Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine; Vanderbilt Weight Loss Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Thompson Lane, Suite 22200, Nashville, TN 37204, USA.
Insights
Childhood obesity is a growing global concern, linked to serious health issues and reduced lifespan. Early screening and intensive lifestyle interventions are crucial for effective management in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Public Health
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Pediatric obesity rates are rising globally, posing significant health risks.
- Childhood obesity is linked to cardiometabolic and psychosocial issues, impacting lifespan.
- Multifactorial causes include genetics, lifestyle, behavior, and social determinants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the increasing prevalence of pediatric obesity.
- To emphasize the need for routine screening and early intervention.
- To outline recommended treatment strategies for childhood obesity.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on pediatric obesity trends and impacts.
- Analysis of American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations.
- Discussion of screening protocols for Body Mass Index (BMI) and comorbidities.
Main Results:
- Childhood obesity is associated with increased risk of chronic diseases.
- Early identification through BMI screening is vital.
- Comprehensive treatment approaches are necessary.
Conclusions:
- Intensive Health Behavior and Lifestyle Treatment is recommended by the AAP.
- Treatment includes lifestyle, behavioral, and mental health components.
- Pharmacologic and surgical options exist for severe cases.
Abstract:
Obesity in the pediatric population is increasing in the United States and globally. Childhood obesity is associated with cardiometabolic and psychosocial comorbidities and decreased overall life span. The cause of pediatric obesity is multifactorial and includes genetic predisposition, lifestyle, behavioral patterns, and consequences of social determinants of health. Routine screening of BMI and comorbid conditions is essential to identifying patients who require treatment. The AAP recommends immediate Intensive Health Behavior and Lifestyle Treatment for children with obesity, encompassing lifestyle changes, behavioral changes, and mental health treatments. Pharmacologic interventions and metabolic and bariatric surgery are also available when indicated.
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