OBESITY IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS – HEALTH EFFECTS, METHODS OF PREVENTION AND TREATMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.3(51).2026.6660Keywords:
Obesity, Overweight, Diabetes Mellitus, Endocrine DisordersAbstract
Introduction: Obesity is becoming an increasingly common and serious condition in children and adolescents. It is diagnosed when the body mass index (BMI) exceeds the 97th percentile for age and sex in children and adolescents. This condition causes serious health problems and increases the risk of chronic diseases..
Discussion: With the rise in obesity among the paediatric population, there has also been an increase in cardiovascular, pulmonary and endocrinological problems, amongst many others. Various approaches are used to treat obesity in children and adolescents. One such approach is pharmacological treatment using the medication Orlistat. Other methods include diet, regular physical activity and psychotherapy. The National Nutrition and Health Programme is an example of a scheme that sets out the basic principles of a balanced diet. In children with obesity, metformin is recommended to prevent diabetes mellitus. Bariatric surgery is another treatment option. The best results were observed when lifestyle changes were combined with Orlistat. An individualised approach to treating obesity in children and adolescents is recommended. Even though new health programmes and campaigns are implemented, parents should pay attention to their children’s physical and mental health.
Conclusions: Obesity entails many consequences such as chronic diseases, reduced quality of life and psychosocial problems. A better understanding of obesity mechanisms will help develop more effective ways to tackle it.. There is a need for research that will provide information on society’s knowledge in this area and on the most effective channels for promoting awareness of a healthy lifestyle.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Vladimir Gurskii, Krystian Matusz, Nadzeya Skadorva, Dominika Kuc, Krystian Ruciński, Zuzanna Bera, Danuta Misiuvianets, Solyana Hailemelekot Mengesha, Paulina Skwarek, Maryia Bohdzel, Krystsina Babkova, Yuliya Hlukhava, Iuliia Ilina, Alicja Korpacka, Patrycja Anna Borowiecka, Pavel Proborshch, Natalie Górna
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