Treatment of childhood obesity

Abstract

Obesity in childhood and adolescence is common and is associated with significant psychological and medical morbidity. Effective management of obesity in this age group has a family-focused approach, especially with pre-adolescent patients. It helps families and young people make healthier food choices and provides ongoing support. Small achievable goals are set for behaviour change, such as reducing sedentary behaviour. The success of treatment is defined in a variety of non-weight-related and weight-related ways. There is little information available to guide the use of drugs in managing paediatric obesity, although clinical trials are currently underway.