Doctors have explained where childhood obesity really comes from

Childhood obesity is becoming increasingly common, but doctors emphasise that it is not just a matter of being overweight, but a complex disease influenced by biology, environment and family lifestyle.

According to experts, the growing number of obese children reflects the peculiarities of the modern world - the abundance of ultra-processed foods, addiction to screens, lack of sleep and high levels of psychological stress. Effective help is only possible with the co-operation of doctors, parents and children themselves, as well as the rejection of accusations and stereotypes.

What childhood obesity really is

Modern research shows that obesity in children is formed under the influence of several factors at once:

• genetic predisposition;

• a diet high in sugar and fat;

• sedentary lifestyles;

• sleep disorders;

• chronic stress.

In addition, the health of the mother during pregnancy, the way the baby is fed, and even exposure to certain chemicals before birth are also important. All of these can affect the baby's future metabolism.

Combined with aggressive fast food marketing and a lack of safe outdoor activities in many areas, there is what is known as a "perfect storm" of metabolic risks.

Why early screening is important

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Association for Obesity Medicine recommend starting screening as early as age two.

When assessing risk, doctors consider:

• age- and height-adjusted body mass index (BMI);

• growth and weight gain patterns;

• family risk factors, including obesity and gestational diabetes in parents.

The goal of screening is not to "label" but to intervene in time to help the child develop healthy habits, self-confidence and a positive attitude towards the body.

Age-appropriate treatment

The approach to treatment depends on the age of the child.

In pre-pubertal children, the main objective is not weight loss, but normalisation of growth: keeping weight on so that growth "catches up" with it. Here the key role is played by parents, who set the regime, the example of nutrition and active games.

Teenagers need more independence and psychological support. Doctors pay attention to sleep, stress levels, emotional overeating, bullying, social media influence and the risk of eating disorders.

Family is a major factor in success

Experts emphasise: without family involvement, childhood obesity treatment is impossible. It is important for parents and carers to:

• understand the basics of nutrition;

• encourage physical activity;

• develop sustainable behavioural skills;

• provide emotional support.

Behavioural therapy helps to view obesity as a chronic disease rather than a personal failure, replacing shame with practical tools.

Professional bodies recommend intensive lifestyle change programmes - at least 26 hours of family counselling over 6-12 months. Longer contact yields sustained improvement in BMI and reduces cardiometabolic risks.

Why avoiding stigma is important

One of the keys to treatment is to avoid focusing on weight per se. Doctors advise talking about "healthy habits" and "growth" rather than kilograms.

It is also important to use person-centred language ("obese child" rather than "obese child") and to create a comfortable, non-judgmental medical environment. This increases trust and adherence to treatment.

New medical options

Modern drugs approved by regulators, including liraglutide and semaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonists), can be used for severe obesity. These are only used in combination with lifestyle modification and under specialist supervision.

Bariatric surgery is an option for adolescents with severe obesity and comorbidities, but it requires long-term medical and psychological support.

How to build a healthy future

Experts emphasise: children cannot cope with obesity alone. Effective prevention requires the involvement of:

• the family;

• doctors;

• schools;

• government;

• local communities.

Healthy school meals, accessible walking environments, early nutrition education and restrictions on junk food advertising can have a greater effect than treatment alone.