Management of Obesity and Its Complications in Children and Adolescents

The ongoing impact of obesity on childhood hypertension

Obesity rates among children have been steadily rising over the past several decades. This epidemic has been accompanied by an increase in the prevalence of childhood hypertension, with children in low- and middle-income countries being affected to the same extent as children in high-income countries. This review will examine the trends in childhood blood pressure and the relationship between excess body weight and the development of hypertension. In addition, distinct mechanisms of obesity-related hypertension will be discussed. There will be an emphasis on recent studies conducted since the publication of new guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2017 which resulted in the adoption of lower normative blood pressure cutoffs. The overall intent of this review is to provide the reader with an understanding of the ongoing impact, and complexities, of obesity-related hypertension.

Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are the game-changers in childhood obesity-associated metabolic disorders (diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases)

Childhood obesity is a chronic inflammatory epidemic that affects children worldwide. Obesity affects approximately 1 in 5 children worldwide. Obesity in children can worsen weight gain and raise the risk of obesity-related comorbidities like diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It can also negatively impact the quality of life for these children. Obesity disrupts immune system function, influencing cytokine (interleukins) balance and expression levels, adipokines, and innate and adaptive immune cells. The altered expression of immune system mediators, including interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-18 (IL-18), transforming growth factor (TGF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and others, caused inflammation, progression, and the development of pediatric obesity and linked illnesses such as diabetes and NAFLD. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-2 (IL-2), have been shown to have anti-diabetes and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) anti-diabetic and pro-NAFLFD properties, and interleukin-10 (IL-10) has been shown to have a dual role in managing diabetes and anti-NAFLD. In light of the substantial increase in childhood obesity-associated disorders such as diabetes and NAFLD and the absence of an effective pharmaceutical intervention to inhibit immune modulation factors, it is critical to consider the alteration of immune system components as a preventive and therapeutic approach. Thus, the current review focuses on the most recent information regarding the influence of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (interleukins) and their molecular mechanisms on pediatric obesity-associated disorders (diabetes and NAFLD). Furthermore, we discussed the current therapeutic clinical trials in childhood obesity-associated diseases, diabetes, and NAFLD.

Assessing the causal relationship between obesity and hypothyroidism using Mendelian randomization

To explore the causal relationship between obesity and hypothyroidism and identify risk factors and the predictive value of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in obese patients using Mendelian randomization, this study employed five Mendelian randomization methods (MR Egger, Weighted Median, Inverse Variance Weighted, Simple Mode, and Weighted Mode) to analyze clinical data from 308 obese patients at the People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, from January 2015 to June 2023. Patients were divided based on thyroid function tests into normal (n = 173) and SCH groups (n = 56). Comparative analyses, along with univariate and multivariate logistic regression, were conducted to identify risk factors for SCH in obese patients. A significant association between obesity and hypothyroidism was established, especially highlighted by the inverse variance weighted method. SCH patients showed higher ages, thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, and thyroid autoantibody positivity rates, with lower T4 and FT4 levels. Age, FT4, thyroid autoantibodies, TPO-Ab, and Tg-Ab were confirmed as risk factors. The predictive value of FT4 levels for SCH in obesity was significant, with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.632. The study supports a potential causal link between obesity and hypothyroidism, identifying specific risk factors for SCH in obese patients. FT4 level stands out as an independent predictive factor, suggesting its utility in early diagnosis and preventive strategies for SCH.

Effects of exercise training on glucose metabolism indicators and inflammatory markers in obese children and adolescents: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Obesity in children and adolescents is a serious problem, and the efficacy of exercise therapy for these patients is controversial.

AIM

To assess the efficacy of exercise training on overweight and obese children based on glucose metabolism indicators and inflammatory markers.

METHODS

The PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched for randomized controlled trials related to exercise training and obese children until October 2023. The meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 software to evaluate the efficacy of exercise therapy on glucose metabolism indicators and inflammatory markers in obese children.

RESULTS

In total, 1010 patients from 28 studies were included. Exercise therapy reduced the levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG) [standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.78; 95% confidence interval (CI): -1.24 to -0.32, P = 0.0008], fasting insulin (FINS) (SMD: -1.55; 95%CI: -2.12 to -0.98, P < 0.00001), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (SMD: -1.58; 95%CI: -2.20 to -0.97, P < 0.00001), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (SMD: -1.31; 95%CI: -2.07 to -0.55, P = 0.0007), C-reactive protein (CRP) (SMD: -0.64; 95%CI: -1.21 to -0.08, P = 0.03), and leptin (SMD: -3.43; 95%CI: -5.82 to -1.05, P = 0.005) in overweight and obese children. Exercise training increased adiponectin levels (SMD: 1.24; 95%CI: 0.30 to 2.18, P = 0.01) but did not improve tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels (SMD: -0.80; 95%CI: -1.77 to 0.18, P = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

In summary, exercise therapy improves glucose metabolism by reducing levels of FBG, FINS, HOMA-IR, as well as improves inflammatory status by reducing levels of IL-6, CRP, leptin, and increasing levels of adiponectin in overweight and obese children. There was no statistically significant effect between exercise training and levels of TNF-α. Additional long-term trials should be conducted to explore this therapeutic perspective and confirm these results.

The Impact of Excessive Fructose Intake on Adipose Tissue and the Development of Childhood Obesity

Worldwide, childhood obesity cases continue to rise, and its prevalence is known to increase the risk of non-communicable diseases typically found in adults, such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Thus, comprehending its multiple causes to build healthier approaches and revert this scenario is urgent. Obesity development is strongly associated with high fructose intake since the excessive consumption of this highly lipogenic sugar leads to white fat accumulation and causes white adipose tissue (WAT) inflammation, oxidative stress, and dysregulated adipokine release. Unfortunately, the global consumption of fructose has increased dramatically in recent years, which is associated with the fact that fructose is not always evident to consumers, as it is commonly added as a sweetener in food and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB). Therefore, here, we discuss the impact of excessive fructose intake on adipose tissue biology, its contribution to childhood obesity, and current strategies for reducing high fructose and/or free sugar intake. To achieve such reductions, we conclude that it is important that the population has access to reliable information about food ingredients via food labels. Consumers also need scientific education to understand potential health risks to themselves and their children.

How do adolescents classify foods as healthy and unhealthy?: A qualitative inquiry from rural India

Indian adolescents exhibit obesogenic dietary habits including low intake of fruits and vegetables and increasing consumption of fast food and carbonated beverages. Adolescents' classification of healthy and unhealthy foods is likely to have significant implications for their dietary behaviour, and consequently, their health. However, there is limited evidence about the ways Indian adolescents classify foods as healthy or unhealthy. Hence, this qualitative study was designed to explore how Indian adolescents classify nutritious or non-nutritious food choices. Convenience sampling was used to recruit the study participants from Tikari village in Uttar Pradesh, India. Underpinned by the social constructivist lens, the adolescents were interviewed face-to-face in Hindi. All the interactions were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated into English prior to data analysis. Transcribed data were analysed thematically using inductive as well as deductive coding, and subsequently, conceptual themes were extracted. A total of thirty-nine adolescents (twenty boys; nineteen girls) aged 10-19 years participated in this qualitative inquiry. The adolescents classified healthy and unhealthy foods based on the following six themes: (i) Food groups and nutrients; (ii) Health and immunity; (iii) Type of ingredient; (iv) Place and time of food preparation; (v) Packaging; and (vi) Parental influence. These findings can inform school-based food literacy interventions to foster healthy dietary habits and cooking skills among Indian adolescents.

An Analysis of Laryngomalacia and Its Interplay With Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Pediatric Inpatients

Objective  This study aimed to investigate the potential relationship between laryngomalacia and obesity as well as explore the interplay between laryngomalacia and obstructive sleep apnea using the Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) for the year 2016. Methods The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) KID for 2016 provided a dataset for analysis. Patient demographics, diagnoses, and hospital characteristics were considered. Patients less than three years old were included due to the high prevalence of laryngomalacia in this age group. Results Among 4,512,196 neonatal admissions, 1,341 obesity cases and 11,642 laryngomalacia cases were analyzed. The frequency of laryngomalacia in patients with obesity was 578.1% higher than in the general population. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) exhibited a 5,243.2% increase in laryngomalacia frequency compared to the overall population. Combining obesity and laryngomalacia resulted in a 6,738.5% increase in OSA frequency. Conclusions This study identified a significant correlation between obesity and increased laryngomalacia risk. The findings have important clinical implications for pediatric care, emphasizing the need to prevent childhood obesity to reduce laryngomalacia risk. Additionally, understanding these risk factors enables better risk stratification for laryngomalacia and potential OSA development.

Obesity in South and Southeast Asia-A new consensus on care and management

Obesity is a chronic disease in which the abnormal or excessive accumulation of body fat leads to impaired health and increased risk of mortality and chronic health complications. Prevalence of obesity is rising rapidly in South and Southeast Asia, with potentially serious consequences for local economies, healthcare systems, and quality of life. Our group of obesity specialists from Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Viet Nam undertook to develop consensus recommendations for management and care of adults and children with obesity in South and Southeast Asia. To this end, we identified and researched 12 clinical questions related to obesity. These questions address the optimal approaches for identifying and staging obesity, treatment (lifestyle, behavioral, pharmacologic, and surgical options) and maintenance of reduced weight, as well as issues related to weight stigma and patient engagement in the clinical setting. We achieved consensus on 42 clinical recommendations that address these questions. An algorithm describing obesity care is presented, keyed to the various consensus recommendations.

Risk Factors, Clinical Consequences, Prevention, and Treatment of Childhood Obesity

Obesity might adversely affect the health and well-being of children and their families. Childhood obesity has crucial implications for health, both during childhood and as they age. It is highly associated with many acute problems and is commonly present during childhood, making visits and hospital admissions polarized in this group of children. The problems that may affect these children can be medical, such as asthma, chronic inflammation, orthopedic abnormalities, liver disease, diabetes mellitus or dyslipidemia. Long-term consequences of cardiovascular risk factors, the persistence of obesity and premature mortality are common among adults who had obesity during their early lives. Additionally, they could also suffer from psychological issues, such as low self-esteem, which puts them at risk of a much more serious psychosocial problem that may lead to depression, as well as a disruption in educational achievements and social relationships. A healthy diet, physical activity, adequate sleep, and limited screen time are all preventive measures that should be implemented at the family and community levels, preferably through well-structured programs. Furthermore, pharmacological management of childhood obesity is limited and only used after non-pharmacological interventions have failed or in the late stages of obesity. However, recent guidelines advocate the early use of medical interventions. Approved pharmacotherapeutic options include orlistat, phentermine/topiramate combination and liraglutide. There are several other options approved primarily for other specific forms of obesity or for other indications, including setmelanotide, metformin, lisdexamfetamine, zonisamide and fluoxetine. Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective option in cases with extreme obesity and comorbidities considering the need for long-term monitoring and support for cases and their families post-surgery. This review aims to discuss and highlight the recent evidence regarding risk factors, clinical consequences, prevention, and treatment of childhood obesity.

Effects of micronutrient and phytochemical supplementation on cardiovascular health in obese and overweight children: a narrative review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cardiovascular damage could begin early in life. Our aim was to examine the current state of the art related to micronutrient supplementation on vascular health in obese and overweight children. We considered only the studies performed over the past few years.

RECENT FINDINGS

Vitamin D supplementation in the obese pediatric population with vitamin D deficiency could improve the vascular health of these subjects. The evidence is less clear on supplementation with other micronutrients. Zinc supplementation is currently the most supported by the literature.

SUMMARY

As of today, we can only speculate that supplementation with other micronutrients could improve the vascular health of obese and overweight children. Strong limitations are the different instrumental methods used to assess vascular health in obese children and adolescents under micronutrients supplementation. Actually, indirect indicators more reliable to evaluate vascular health seem to be lipid profile and insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, there is a particular lack of studies in this area in recent years, especially in the pediatric population. Additional studies performed in this population should be pursued to clarify significant relationships between micronutrients and vascular health.

Neck circumference: cutoff points for Brazilian children

ABSTRACT Objective The objective of the present study was to propose cutoff points of neck circumference for predicting overweight in Brazilian children. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study with 875 children from public schools in Brazil. Weight, height, and neck circumference were measured. Nutritional status and the risk of complications were assessed based on the values of body mass index and neck circumference. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to verify the cutoff points. Results The median age was eight years, and the majority of the children had normal weights by body mass index and had no risk of metabolic complications by neck circumference. There was a correlation between neck circumference and body mass index (k=0.689; p<0.005). The mean values proposed for overweight were 29.2 cm for girls and 29.1 cm for boys. Conclusion Neck circumference had a good correlation with body mass index, and the cutoff points proposed can identify overweight in Brazilian children.