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Published on: April 4, 2012
Two-decade follow-up of fatness in early childhood
Insights
Obese children have a higher likelihood of adult obesity, with 26% of initially obese preschoolers remaining obese two decades later. Family history can help identify children needing early intervention for obesity.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern.
- Understanding the long-term trajectory of childhood obesity is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the persistence of obesity from early childhood into adulthood.
- To explore the role of family history in identifying children at risk for persistent obesity.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study tracking 383 infants and preschool children into early adulthood.
- Analysis of skinfold correlations over two decades.
- Examination of familial fatness levels (siblings, parents, grandparents).
Main Results:
- A risk ratio of 1.77 for adult obesity was observed in initially obese preschool children.
- 26% of obese preschoolers remained obese two decades later, compared to an expected 15% by chance.
- Low skinfold correlations (averaging 0.14) over two decades suggest other factors influence long-term obesity.
Conclusions:
- Early childhood obesity is a significant predictor of adult obesity.
- Family history provides valuable insights for identifying children requiring early obesity intervention.
- Further research is needed to understand the complex factors contributing to obesity persistence.
Abstract:
As shown in our study of 383 infants and preschool children followed through early adulthood, there is some evidence that obese children are more likely to be obese as adults. Though skinfold correlations over a two-decade period were low, averaging 0.14 for both sexes, 26% of initially obese preschool children were still obese two decades later as against 15% that would be expected by chance. The risk ratio was thus 1.77. Examined in the context of the family, the fatness levels of siblings, parents and grandparents help to identify obese children for whom early intervention is indicated and the larger number of obese preschoolers who do not become obese adults.
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