Why Earlier May Be Better: A Look at the Use of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in the Treatment of Severe Childhood Obesity

Pediatric obesity is a chronic disease which leads to the development of significant health consequences in childhood, and increased risk of morbidity and premature mortality in adulthood. It is now estimated that 4% of children and 9% of adolescents in the United States have severe obesity (BMI ≥ 120% of the 95th percentile for age). (1) Causal factors for obesity include genetics, environment, medications, and behavior.(2) Severe obesity during childhood and adolescence is associated with the development of significant comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes (T2D), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), nonalcoholic or metabolic associated fatty liver disease, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, orthopedic diseases, gastroesophageal reflux, poor quality of life, and mental health issues.
Source: Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases - Category: Surgery Authors: Source Type: research