Obesity in Children
What is childhood obesity?
Childhood obesity occurs when a child carries excess body fat that may affect their health and wellbeing. It is a common condition that can increase the risk of physical and emotional health problems, both during childhood and later in adult life.
In most children, obesity develops because of a combination of genetics, eating habits, physical activity, sleep, environment and lifestyle. Only a small number of children have an underlying hormonal or genetic condition causing obesity.
Our paediatric endocrinologists provide specialist assessment for children where there are concerns that obesity may be related to an underlying medical condition, while working alongside families to support healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes.
What are the signs and concerns?
Children with obesity may:
- Gain weight more quickly than expected
- Become breathless during physical activity
- Develop low confidence or self-esteem
- Experience bullying or social difficulties
- Snore or have disturbed sleep
- Develop joint or back pain
Most children continue to grow normally in height. If a child has obesity and poor height growth, this may suggest an underlying medical condition and should be assessed by a specialist.
When should I seek medical advice?
You should consider seeking specialist advice if:
- Your child's weight is increasing rapidly
- Lifestyle changes have not improved weight gain
- Your child has poor growth as well as obesity
- There are concerns about delayed puberty or other hormonal symptoms
- There is a strong family history of endocrine or genetic disorders
- Your child has developed high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol or raised blood sugar
How is childhood obesity assessed?
Assessment includes:
- Height and weight measurements
- Body mass index (BMI) assessment using age-specific centiles
- Review of your child's growth charts
- Discussion about diet, activity, sleep and family history
- Blood tests where clinically indicated
Most children do not require extensive hormone testing. Investigations are only recommended when there are features suggesting an underlying medical condition.
What treatment is available?
Treatment focuses on supporting healthy, long-term lifestyle changes rather than rapid weight loss.
Management may include:
- Individual dietary advice
- Increasing physical activity
- Reducing sedentary behaviours
- Improving sleep
- Behavioural support for the whole family
- Referral to other specialists if required
If an underlying endocrine disorder is identified, treatment will focus on managing that condition alongside healthy lifestyle measures.
Long-term outlook
Small, sustainable lifestyle changes made during childhood can have a significant positive impact on lifelong health.
With appropriate support, many children achieve healthier growth, improved fitness and increased confidence.