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Childhood Obesity: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Emerging Treatment Strategies

Somar Hadid1, William H Frishman1, Wilbert S Aronow1,2

  • 1From the Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY.

Cardiology in Review
|June 10, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue driven by diet and inactivity, leading to severe health problems. Management focuses on lifestyle changes, with new drug and surgical options showing promise for adolescents.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Childhood obesity is a complex global health crisis with rising prevalence.
  • It is influenced by a multifactorial interplay of genetic, environmental, behavioral, psychological, and socioeconomic determinants.
  • Increased intake of ultra-processed foods and sedentary behaviors are key contributors to pediatric obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current landscape of childhood obesity.
  • To explore its epidemiology, risk factors, and long-term health consequences.
  • To summarize prevention strategies and novel therapeutic interventions.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes existing literature on childhood obesity.
  • It covers epidemiological data, etiological factors, clinical impacts, and management approaches.
  • Emerging pharmacologic and surgical treatments are also discussed.

Main Results:

  • Childhood obesity is linked to significant comorbidities like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  • Intensive lifestyle interventions, including nutrition and physical activity, are foundational for management.
  • Pharmacologic therapies (e.g., GLP-1 receptor agonists) and bariatric surgery show efficacy in severe adolescent obesity.

Conclusions:

  • Early identification and comprehensive management are crucial for addressing childhood obesity.
  • Integrated approaches combining lifestyle modification with advanced medical and surgical options are vital.
  • Continued research into prevention and treatment is essential for mitigating the long-term burden of pediatric obesity.

Keywords:
cardiovascular diseasechildhood obesitydiabetes

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