Pediatric obesity has increased over the decades, and in particular, severe
pediatric obesity has become a serious
public health problem. A concern has arisen that the COVID-19 pandemic may exacerbate the
incidence of
childhood obesity .Current Concepts The consequences of severe
pediatric obesity are more devastating than those of moderate
obesity .
Children with
severe obesity are at a greater
risk for
hypertension ,
type 2 diabetes ,
metabolic syndrome ,
non-alcoholic fatty liver disease ,
atherosclerosis , and
adult obesity . Correct assessment and
diagnosis of a
child with
severe obesity is key to successful
therapy . A thorough
history and
physical examination are important in identifying monogenic
obesity or
metabolic syndrome .
Eating behaviors and
psychosocial factors should be assessed to improve weight management outcomes.
Treatment options for severe
pediatric obesity include
lifestyle modification,
pharmacotherapy , and metabolic and
bariatric surgery . Even though progress has been made with regard to the
treatment of
obesity , safe and effective
treatment of severe
pediatric obesity is challenging.Discussion and
Conclusion: More efforts and innovations are needed to find a
solution for the huge medical and emotional burden the
children with
severe obesity and their
families are enduring.