Childhood and adolescent obesity is a significant global health issue, with the prevalence of overweight and obese children and adolescents escalating at an alarming rate. This health concern is not confined to developed countries; it’s a growing problem in developing nations as well. The causes of obesity are multifaceted, encompassing genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and socio-economic status are among the key contributors. The consequences of obesity extend beyond physical health, impacting psychological well-being and academic performance. Childhood obesity is a pressing health concern with far-reaching consequences. As children carry excess weight, they become vulnerable to a host of medical issues. Here are some notable complications associated with childhood obesity:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Dyslipidemia
- Psychological Impact
- Increased Risk of Certain Cancers
This review from Cochrane published in September 2022 evaluates the effects of surgery for treating obesity in childhood and adolescence and the results were:
- Weight Reduction: The gastric banding group experienced an average reduction in weight of 34.6 kg over two years, corresponding to a change in body mass index (BMI) units of 12.7.
- Control Group: The control intervention resulted in an average weight reduction of 3.0 kg, equivalent to a BMI change of 1.3.
- Side Effects: 48% of participants in the intervention group and 44% in the control group reported side effects.
- Revisional Procedures: 28% of adolescents who underwent gastric banding required a ‘revisional procedure’ due to complications.
- Missing Data: No information was provided on all-cause mortality, behavior change, participants’ views, or socioeconomic effects.
- Quality of Life: At two years, gastric banding participants outperformed lifestyle participants in certain health-related quality of life aspects, including physical functioning and overall health score.
Resources:
1.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhood-obesity/symptoms-causes/syc-20354827
2.Torbahn G, Brauchmann J, Axon E, Clare K, Metzendorf M-I, Wiegand S, Pratt JSA, Ells LJ. Surgery for the treatment of obesity in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2022, Issue 9. Art. No.: CD011740. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD011740.pub2. Accessed 20 February 2024.
