WHO issues first global guidelines on childhood obesity care

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released its first global set of guidelines aimed at addressing the care of children and teenagers facing obesity. These recommendations emphasize a supportive and non-stigmatizing approach to promote healthy development and long-term well-being. As of 2024, an estimated 170 million children and adolescents aged five to 19 are living with obesity worldwide, a figure that is four times higher than the rate recorded in 1990.

The WHO stresses that childhood obesity can lead to significant physical and mental health challenges, elevating the risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. These children may also encounter stigma, discrimination, and bullying, which can negatively impact their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

The new guidelines prioritize strategies such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, family involvement, and support for children's behavioral, emotional, and mental health needs, rather than focusing on blame or judgment. Parents and caregivers are urged to play a crucial role in helping children adopt healthy habits. Additionally, the guidelines advocate for the use of digital tools to support care under appropriate adult supervision.

It is important to note that the guidelines do not advocate for weight-loss medicines or bariatric surgery for younger children, and instead champion age-appropriate methods for managing obesity.

WHO leaders believe that obesity care should extend beyond mere weight reduction, aiming to ensure that children can grow properly, remain active, maintain good health, and develop sustainable habits that last a lifetime. This guidance is part of a broader initiative to enhance the prevention and management of childhood obesity and improve health outcomes for younger populations.