Causes and consequences of childhood obesity

Obesity is a dynamic disease of complex aetiology and multifactorial character. The interaction of genetic factors of each individual and its association with perinatal, environmental, dietary, and psychosocial factors constitute a common pathway for the development of childhood obesity. Obesity in childhood is known to track strongly into adulthood, especially in those children with a severe form of obesity and/or a clear family history. The two most important modifiable risk factors for childhood obesity are dietary factors and low physical activity, in genetic susceptible patients. Others are sleep deprivation, early adiposity rebound, drugs and in rare cases endocrine- and hypothalamic disorders. Early diagnosis and appropriate management and/or treatment are key words. As in adults, paediatric overweight and obesity are linked to a higher risk of co-morbidities. These comorbidities affect almost every organ system. However, in children these obesity-related co-morbidities will significantly impact (mental)health in their future lives. Hormonal and cardiovascular alterations include insulin resistance, high levels of LDL cholesterol, hypertension, NAFLD, metabolic syndrome, alterations of the microbiome, cancer and alterations of the reproductive system. Structural problems include OSAS, enuresis nocturna, musculoskeletal and orthopedic complications. Finally, obese children experience a lower health-related quality of life compared to children with normal weight.

Publication year:2020