Key Points
2
Î Pediatric obesity remains an ongoing serious international health
concern affecting ~17% of US children and adolescents, threatening
their adult health and longevity.
Î Pediatric obesity has its basis in genetic susceptibilities influenced
by a permissive environment starting in utero and extending through
childhood and adolescence.
• Genetic screening for rare syndromes is indicated only in the presence of specific
historical or physical features.
Î Endocrine etiologies for obesity are rare and usually are accompanied
by attenuated growth patterns.
Î Pediatric comorbidities are common, and long-term health
complications often result. Screening for comorbidities of obesity
should be applied in a hierarchal, logical manner for early
identification before more serious complications result.
Î The psychological toll of pediatric obesity on the individual and family
necessitates screening for mental health issues and counseling as
indicated.
Î The prevention of pediatric obesity by promoting healthful diet,
activity, and environment should be a primary goal, since achieving
effective, long-lasting results with lifestyle modification once obesity
occurs is difficult.
