Causes, Prevention Strategies and Treatment for Childhood Obesity for Growing Epidemic and its Health Risks

Abstract

Objective: To address this critical problem, we looked at the causes, preventative measures, and available therapeutic options for paediatric obesity.

Study Design: A cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the National Hospital and Medical Centre in Lahore from June 2022 to May 2023.

Materials and Methods: Using a representative sample of 246 kids between the ages of 5 and 12 who were patients at the National Hospital and Medical Centre in Lahore, a cross-sectional survey methodology was used. Data on obesity risk factors, food habits, levels of physical activity, and family history were gathered using anthropometric measures and structured questionnaires.

Results: The average age of the research participants was 7.23+3.09 years, and 154 (62.60%) men and 92 (37.39%) women made up the gender distribution (p 0.05). The results of the investigation showed that 45% of obese kids had a genetic tendency, 40% had diets high in fat or calories or poor in fibre, 40% were sedentary, and 35% had high socioeconomic level as a risk factor. Dietary changes among the therapy alternatives showed the best efficacy at 65% (p 0.05), followed by more exercise and physical activity at 60%. In 25% of instances, pharmacotherapy was used, and in 30%, cognitive behavioural therapy. The most effective treatments, with a 70% success rate, were combinations.

Conclusion: It is feasible to stop the growing trend of paediatric obesity and reduce the associated health risks by making significant investments in rigorous research, placing a high priority on health education, and putting into practise evidence-based policy. This research made a substantial contribution to the body of knowledge by offering insightful information for the creation of focused preventive and treatment plans to address juvenile obesity.