GENERAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity has emerged as a serious global public health concern, affecting children aged 2 to 10 years and being associated with multiple genetic, environmental, social, and behavioral factors. Objective: This study aimed to review recent national and international literature on the main aspects of pediatric obesity, including its risk factors, complications, and therapeutic strategies. Methodology: This is a narrative literature review conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE and Scielo databases between August and October 2024. The search used descriptors in Portuguese and English, and inclusion criteria encompassed studies published between 2019 and 2024. Results: Analysis of 27 selected articles revealed that childhood obesity is predominantly exogenous, influenced by high-calorie diets, sedentary lifestyles, and familial factors. Its increasing prevalence is linked to adverse metabolic and psychological outcomes, with a potential onset during gestation. The roles of the family, school, and public policy are essential in prevention and management. Beyond lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapies such as metformin, orlistat, sibutramine, and more recently, GLP-1 analogues like liraglutide and semaglutide, have shown efficacy in refractory cases. Conclusion: Childhood obesity, due to its multifactorial nature and long-term consequences, requires early, integrated, and personalized interventions, focusing on nutritional education, promotion of physical activity, and, when necessary, pharmacological support. Coordination between families, healthcare professionals, and public policies is crucial to reversing this epidemic scenario.