Childhood obesity is a serious health problem associated with excessive accumulation of fat mass, which can negatively affect overall health, increasing the risk of developing concomitant diseases. Obesity is diagnosed based on the body mass index (BMI), which is calculated based on the child's height and weight. The situation is aggravated by the increasing incidence of obesity among children, which is largely due to lifestyle changes, insufficient physical activity and the availability of high-calorie foods. Childhood obesity not only affects physical health, but also the psycho-emotional state, and can lead to social isolation and a decrease in the quality of life.
History of the disease and interesting historical facts
Obesity as a disease has become a noticeable problem in society only in the last few decades. Even in ancient times, people were aware of the connection between excess weight and health, as evidenced by the works of Hippocrates. However, it was only in the 20th century that a sharp increase in obesity was observed, especially among children. It is noteworthy that after World War II, countries with a high standard of living observed a steady trend of increasing the proportion of overweight children. In the 1980s, obesity problems became global, affecting countries such as the United States, Great Britain and many others. Modern research shows that government programs aimed at reducing obesity began to actively develop only in the 21st century, when the number of overweight children became critical.
Epidemiology
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, more than 38 million children under 5 years of age were overweight or obese. A similar trend is observed in Russia, where this figure has increased by more than 30% over the past 20 years. It is noteworthy that this disease can manifest itself in any economic conditions, with the most severe situation observed in low- and middle-income countries, where children's diets often include high-calorie foods with low nutrient content. It is important to note that obesity can develop as a result of a complex interaction of genetic, behavioral and environmental factors, making it a multifactorial disease.
Genetic predisposition to this disease
Although obesity is often associated with dietary habits and lifestyle, there is growing evidence that genetic predisposition plays a significant role in its development. Research has shown that certain genes may be involved in fat metabolism and storage. One of the most studied is the FTO (fat mass and obesity-associated) gene, the presence of which is associated with weight gain and a predisposition to obesity. Also, mutations in genes responsible for appetite control and metabolism, such as MC4R and POMC, may contribute to the development of obesity. Genetic studies indicate that about 40-70% variations in BMI can be explained by hereditary factors.
Risk factors for the development of this disease
Risk factors for obesity can be divided into several categories:
- Physical factors: lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, sleep problems (eg, obstructive apnea)
- Chemical factors: Exposure to endocrine disruptors such as phthalates and bisphenol A, which can affect metabolism
- Psychosocial factors: stress, depression, and the influence of social environment on eating habits
- Cultural factors: family food traditions, food availability and food habits in society
- Economic factors: family income level and access to quality food
The complex interaction of these factors increases the likelihood of obesity in children, which requires a comprehensive approach to its prevention and treatment.
Diagnosis of this disease
Diagnosis of obesity in children is based on a thorough analysis of the clinical picture, including the main symptoms. These include:
- Overweight, indicated by changes in BMI
- Changes in physical condition, such as shortness of breath and fatigue
- Obesity-associated diseases such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension
Laboratory tests may include:
- Determination of blood glucose levels
- Lipid profile study (cholesterol and triglycerides)
- Hormonal studies (eg, insulin and leptin)
Radiological examinations, such as abdominal ultrasound, may be useful in identifying fat deposits and possible complications. The differential diagnosis necessarily includes the exclusion of endocrine diseases and syndromes that lead to obesity.
Treatment
Treatment of obesity in children involves a comprehensive approach and includes:
- General methods such as changing your diet and increasing physical activity
- Pharmacological treatment that can be used when conservative methods are ineffective
- Surgical treatment recommended in cases of severe obesity when other methods have failed
- Other treatments, such as behavioral therapy and dietitian consultations
In addition, it is important to implement educational programs for children and their families aimed at developing a healthy lifestyle.
List of medications used to treat this disease
The following can be used as pharmacotherapy for the treatment of obesity in children:
- Orlistat is a drug that blocks the absorption of fat in the intestines
- Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide 1 analogue that reduces appetite
- Phentermine is a drug that helps reduce appetite, but is less common in children due to possible side effects
Treatment should be strictly supervised by a medical professional.
Disease monitoring
Monitoring the progression of obesity in children includes regular assessment of BMI, physical activity level, lifestyle changes and general physical condition. It is important to consider the following aspects:
- Control stages: regular visits to the doctor to monitor health and follow recommendations
- Prognosis: Timely treatment can significantly improve the condition and reduce the risk of concomitant diseases
- Complications: Obesity can lead to diabetes, heart disease, joint problems and other serious conditions.
Age-related features of the disease
Childhood obesity can manifest itself differently depending on the age group. Infants and toddlers are prone to “milk” obesity, which is associated with excessive consumption of high-calorie beverages. Schoolchildren have age-related characteristics, expressed in changes in metabolism and an increase in emotional factors that affect eating habits. Teenagers, in turn, are often influenced by social factors, such as fashion preferences, which can either promote or hinder weight loss.
Questions and Answers
- What impact does obesity have on children's health? Obesity increases the risk of developing various diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and can also affect the child’s psycho-emotional state.
- How is obesity diagnosed in children? Obesity is diagnosed by calculating body mass index (BMI), assessing clinical symptoms and laboratory tests.
- Is it possible to treat obesity in children without drugs? Yes, it is possible and it is often recommended to start with dietary changes and increased physical activity before deciding on pharmacological therapy.
- At what age is obesity most dangerous? Obesity in early childhood (under 5 years of age) can lead to serious problems later in life, including risks to development and quality of life.
- What is the role of the family in treating obesity in a child? Family plays a key role as they can support healthy eating habits and physical activity, creating a positive environment for lifestyle changes.
