Management of Obesity in Children and Young People

Abstract

The management of obesity in childhood and adolescence poses challenges unique to this age group. Compared to adults, obesity-related comorbidities are relatively rare, yet risk factors are increasingly prevalent, frequently undetected, and poorly managed. The evidence base for weight loss interventions and management of comorbidities is limited, with short duration of follow-up only reported, and few randomized controlled trials. Bariatric surgery in adolescents results in the largest magnitude of weight loss, with outcomes similar to those seen in adults. Lifestyle intervention studies have relatively modest outcomes, with unknown long-term outcomes. Only one pharmaceutical agent (orlistat) is licenced in this age group, with generally poor outcomes.