Childhood Obesity in South-Asian Countries: a Systematic Review (Causes and Prevention)

Abstract

The prevalence of childhood obesity has risen over the last three decades and has become worldwide public health problem. Childhood obesity causes a range of complications including the risk of adulthood obesity and obesity-related chronic diseases that lead to premature death. South-Asian countries (India, Sri-Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh) have high rates of childhood obesity, despite the continuing high level of under-nutrition. The co-occurrence of nutrition transition and obesity in these middle and low-income countries presents unique challenges. This systemic review presents a summary of published research on the causes and effective prevention strategies in South Asian countries. We searched for published studies in Pub Med, Google scholar and the Cochrane Library. We also reviewed the reference lists of published studies. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The selected studies considered childhood obesity complications, and risk factors, including energy-rich and nutrition-poor foods were identified as key factors influencing rapid weight gain in children. Some articles focused on prevention and weight reduction strategies. Childhood obesity is a crucial issue and to overcome, changing in dietary habits, nutrition policies are needed along with physical interventions. Regular physical activities and nutritional interventions can be maintained through home or school.