Articles tagged with Childhood Obesity
Adolescents who perceive themselves as overweight face triple the risk of self-harm compared to those who do not, regardless of objective weight. The study also highlights the critical role of schools and communities in creating supportive environments.
McDonald's has won planning appeals against local authorities in deprived areas, citing healthier lifestyle benefits. The firm's tactics include deploying a GP to argue that obesity is caused by multiple factors, and threatening councils with bills for appeal costs.
A narrative review of over 1,700 papers found only seven papers addressing dexamphetamine addiction directly. The study raises questions about the evidence underpinning its restriction by regulatory agencies. Dexamphetamine is effective in treating ADHD and narcolepsy but may have benefits in treating obesity.
A cohort study of Canadian children found that high ultraprocessed food consumption during early childhood is associated with obesity development, particularly in males. The study suggests that targeted public health initiatives can help reduce ultraprocessed food intake and prevent obesity.
A University of Toronto study found that Canadian preschoolers who consumed more ultra-processed foods were more likely to develop obesity at age five. The researchers also discovered sex-driven differences in the effects of ultra-processed food on obesity risk, with stronger effects seen in males.
The BP-CATCH trial found significant racial and ethnic disparities in pediatric counseling for children with high blood pressure, but no disparities were observed among those with or without obesity. The study highlights the need to address these disparities to provide equitable care to all patients.
A new clinical trial found that a self-guided family-based treatment approach is as effective as traditional clinician-led approaches in helping children with obesity. This approach requires fewer contact hours, is more flexible, and significantly reduces costs.
The American Heart Association's 2025 statistics report shows an increase of over 10,000 cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the US, with a slight decrease in age-adjusted death rates. Rising kidney disease, hypertension, and obesity are contributing to these trends.
Researchers found that new habits can begin forming within about two months, but can take up to 335 days to establish. The study also identified factors that influence successful habit formation, including frequency, timing, and enjoyment.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that childhood obesity treatment can reduce the risk of serious health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia in young adults. However, it did not have a lasting impact on depression and anxiety, which remained unchanged regardless of treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that most parents (78%) who worried about their child's weight were open to support and nearly all (98%) accepted a referral to relevant children's services. Parents preferred individualized support and focused on being healthy rather than just weight loss.
A cutting-edge molecular approach identifies three distinct clusters of children with metabolic complications, highlighting the importance of prenatal environment and exposure to industrial chemicals. The study provides a better understanding of biological pathways involved in metabolic health, beyond traditional clinical markers.
Exposure to air pollution during the three months before pregnancy is associated with higher childhood obesity risk up to two years after birth. The study found that women with higher levels of PM2.5 and PM10 had children with a higher BMI and related obesity risk factors.
A recent population-based study indicates that among children with cancer, those with obesity at the time of diagnosis may face an elevated risk of dying. The study found a significant negative impact of obesity on prognosis, particularly in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and brain tumors.
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that placentas from fresh embryo transfers are smaller on average compared to those from frozen embryo transfers. The researchers also identified altered gene function and DNA methylation in ART-conceived children, particularly in relation to metabolism and growth.
The American Society for Nutrition Foundation and Novo Nordisk Foundation have launched two new awards to celebrate excellence in nutrition science, supporting mid-career researchers with groundbreaking discoveries. Early-career physicians are also recognized for innovative approaches to childhood obesity treatment.
Research found that infants given milk cereal drinks after six months old experience early rapid weight gain but not higher body mass index or waist-to-height ratio. Early rapid weight gain is predictive of later adiposity, regardless of supplement consumption.
Researchers from the University of Granada and the Public Health Agency of Canada identified the most important physical fitness tests for children and adolescents, with a degree of scientific agreement exceeding 85%. The top tests include the 20-meter shuttle run test, handgrip strength test, standing long jump test, and body mass index.
Researchers discovered a novel combination of plasma-based biomarkers that can predict liver fibrosis in Latino adolescents with obesity. The study found that dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were significantly associated with fibrosis, suggesting a potential low-cost, noninvasive screening tool.
A new UK study analyzed data from three generations of adolescents and young adults to assess preconception health trends. The study found that while some unhealthy behaviors like smoking and soda consumption decreased over time, rates of overweight and obesity increased across the generations.
Researchers found no correlation between adenotonsillectomies and undesirable weight gain in children with mild sleep-disordered breathing. The study used data from a clinical trial involving 458 children and showed that adenotonsillectomy improved symptoms, blood pressure, and quality of life but not primary neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Summer holiday programs in Australia have been found to improve children's physical activity, fitness, and mental health, particularly among disadvantaged kids. These programs, delivered in semi-structured environments like school, help offset hours spent on screens and promote healthier behaviors.
Higher levels of satellite-based greenness and street-level green components are associated with lower adiposity in US children. The study suggests that increasing residential green space levels could be a viable urban planning strategy to combat childhood obesity.
A Brazilian study of 89 father-mother-baby triads found that paternal overweight is linked to lower birth weight and may influence the baby's health in adulthood. The research suggests that fathers should prioritize healthy habits during pregnancy to support fetal development.
A systematic review of 18 randomized controlled trials found that drinking enough water can help with weight loss and prevent kidney stones. Drinking eight cups a day significantly decreased the likelihood of getting another kidney stone, while six cups a day helped adults lose weight.
A new study found that a prenatal diet meeting USDA guidelines is linked to healthy birthweights, steady growth patterns, and potentially lower childhood obesity. Researchers also discovered mixed effects of low-inflammatory diets on infant growth.
A cohort study found that a prenatal diet aligned with US Dietary Guidelines was linked to slower infant growth rates and lower obesity risk. The study suggests that improving prenatal nutrition may also benefit children's growth trajectory in the long term.
The Greenlight Plus trial found that technological interventions and policies can help prevent childhood obesity at an early age. The study suggests that targeted prevention efforts can reduce the risk of obesity in children, setting a promising foundation for future prevention strategies.
The Lancet predicts devastating trends at the population level, with 43.1 million US children and adolescents and 213 million adults expected to have overweight or obesity by 2050. Without significant reform, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is set to continue and even increase in some states.
Metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, may increase risks of obesity and diabetes in newborns when given to pregnant women. The study found that the drug accumulated in the fetal kidneys, liver, and other organs, leading to growth restriction, which has been linked to an elevated risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood.
A multicenter national clinical trial is being conducted to study whether giving antibiotics at the start of labor induction can decrease C-sections in pregnant women with obesity. The trial aims to enroll nearly 800 women and analyze infection rates, complications, and microbiome changes.
A recent study found that children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of lower birth weight, shorter stature, and smaller head circumference. The researchers believe that the placenta's inability to meet the baby's demands due to PCOS-related hormonal imbalances may be the cause.
A study by Uppsala University finds that childhood overweight is associated with socio-economic disadvantage, particularly in regions with high rates of single parenthood and low education levels. The prevalence of overweight among 4-year-olds has fallen to pre-pandemic levels, but regional disparities persist.
A new NIH study found exposure to organophosphate esters (OPEs) during pregnancy may affect childhood obesity risk. Children exposed to higher levels of certain OPEs had a greater or lower risk of obesity compared to those with lower exposure.
A Johns Hopkins study found that adding digital feedback to traditional health counseling for parents improves healthy growth in young children. The study, which used text messages and a web-based dashboard, reduced obesity rates in the first two years of life.
A digital health behavior intervention improved child weight-for-length trajectory and reduced childhood obesity at 24 months. The intervention was effective in a racially and ethnically diverse population, including groups at elevated risk for childhood obesity.
A study of 260 teens who underwent bariatric surgery at age 13-19 found that over half demonstrated sustained weight loss and resolution of conditions like type 2 diabetes. After 10 years, 55% of participants with type 2 diabetes remained in remission.
A UNC Greensboro study of 299 women and their infants found that obesogenic feeding practices, such as watching TV while feeding or formula-feeding, are strongly correlated with rapid infant weight gain. The researchers also found that mothers' prenatal psychological risk increases the likelihood they will engage in these unhealthy pra...
Research from Lancaster University found that restricting new fast-food outlets led to fewer overweight and obese children in Gateshead, England. The policy resulted in a statistically significant reduction of 4.80% in childhood obesity prevalence in deprived areas.
A new study from the University of Washington found that lower-income households decreased their purchases of sweetened beverages by nearly 50%, while higher-income households reduced purchases by 18%. The tax was implemented in four U.S. cities and resulted in a significant decline in consumption among lower-income households.
Researchers propose a model that examines the complex relationships between children's appetite regulation and environmental influences. The study suggests that temperamental characteristics play a significant role in shaping children's eating behaviors and provide guidelines for better understanding childhood appetite self-regulation.
Researchers developed gene therapy that automatically converts harmful Omega-6 fatty acids to beneficial Omega-3s, reducing risk of arthritis and other health problems in children with obesity. The treatment also lowered inflammation and improved metabolic health.
A Japanese study found that children with outdoor play habits at age 2.5 had a 15% lower risk of being overweight or obese by age 7. The study suggests encouraging outdoor play in young children may help prevent obesity later in life.
Childhood obesity has surged globally, with nearly half of all overweight children under 5 years old found in Asia. The authors highlight the need for coordinated efforts to address this epidemic, including increased physical activity and healthier diets.
UNCG researchers aim to reduce rapid weight gain and obesity risk among Latine infants by supporting mothers in breastfeeding. Breastfeeding without supplementation during infancy correlates with less excess weight gain for the baby and a healthier weight throughout childhood.
A study conducted by the University of Gothenburg found that meal boxes with healthy recipes and subsidized meals led to a greater reduction in children's BMI compared to lifestyle treatment alone. The intervention also involved family meals, which were perceived as tolerable and reduced conflicts over food shopping.
A new blood test using lipids could identify children at risk of complications from obesity, including type two diabetes, liver disease, and heart disease. The test uses mass spectrometry to assess a broader range of lipid molecules, offering a more accurate early warning system.
A study from the University of Copenhagen detected lipid biomarkers in obese children that indicate a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, liver, and heart disease later in life. A one-year lifestyle intervention lowered these biomarkers, demonstrating the importance of early intervention for children with obesity.
A nationwide multi-cohort study found that residence in low-income-low-food-access neighborhoods during pregnancy or early childhood significantly raises the risk of obesity and severe obesity from childhood to adolescence. The study underscores the importance of early-life neighborhood environments in shaping child health outcomes.
Neighborhood food access in early life is strongly associated with child BMI and obesity trajectories. Residence in low-income areas with limited access to healthy food options increases the risk of severe obesity.
A new NIH-funded study found that children who experienced food insecurity during early childhood or whose mothers experienced it during pregnancy had a higher BMI and increased chance of developing obesity. Researchers explored how neighborhood food access affected child body mass index and obesity over time.
A new US study found that rapidly controlling blood sugar levels in women with gestational diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of their children developing obesity. The study analyzed data from over 258,000 women and their children, revealing a strong correlation between maternal blood sugar control and childhood obesity risk.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that liraglutide is safe and effective in reducing BMI by 7.4% in children aged 6 to under 12, as well as improving blood pressure and blood sugar control. The treatment was well-tolerated with no new safety concerns.
A new study found that four in ten children in Central London switched to walking or cycling after the ULEZ was introduced, while only two in ten in Luton made this switch. This shift is linked to reduced air pollution and increased physical activity, with benefits for children's health and development.
A new study reveals that women leaders with greater experience and connections play a crucial role in driving the success of community coalitions aimed at preventing childhood obesity. The research highlights the importance of these female leaders in facilitating the diffusion of prevention efforts.
A study found that despite a decline in TV ads during kids' shows, children under 12 still see over 1,000 food-related ads annually, mostly for unhealthy products. The exposure primarily comes from watching shows with lower child-audience shares.
Obesity-related cancer rates in China have risen sharply among young people, with an alarming 3.6% annual increase between 2007 and 2021. The trend is particularly pronounced among those aged 25-29, highlighting the urgent need for better public health policies to address China's growing overweight and obesity rates.
A large-scale study investigated the relationship between childhood obesity and immune-mediated skin diseases (IMSDs), such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. The study found that obese children were more likely to develop these conditions, with changes in body weight affecting their risk of developing these diseases.
A recent study found that 60 percent of infant and toddler foods sold in top US grocery chains fail to meet nutritional recommendations, while none meet World Health Organization guidelines. The study also exposed widespread misleading marketing practices, including prohibited claims on packaging.
A study found that city-level sugar-sweetened beverage taxes are associated with lower body mass index percentile among youth. Policymakers may consider implementing such taxes to prevent or reduce youth overweight and obesity, ultimately reducing chronic disease risk, particularly among children under 12.