Childhood obesity and its consequences

This study synthesizes chronic nutritional disorders (protein-energy malnutrition, hypotrophy, and obesity) among children and adolescents, focusing on their negative impacts on physical, metabolic, and psychological development. Genetic predisposition, sedentary lifestyle (physical inactivity), consumption of high-calorie and refined foods, and socio-economic factors play leading roles in the development of obesity and overweight conditions. Chronic nutritional disorders lead to severe complications in children, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (steatosis), musculoskeletal deformities, and hormonal imbalances (including polycystic ovary syndrome and the risk of infertility). Furthermore, children with excess weight exhibit marked psychological and emotional changes, including depression, reactive and trait anxiety, low self-esteem, bulimia, and social isolation resulting from peer pressure (bullying). Approximately 50–80% of childhood obesity persists into adulthood, sharply increasing the risk of premature mortality and chronic pathologies. Resolving this issue requires a comprehensive approach across family, school, and governmental levels, including support for breastfeeding, rational nutrition, increased physical activity, and mandatory psychotherapeutic correction programs.