Table of Contents

Introduction

Definition and Epidemiology

Medical Morbidities Associated with Obesity in Children

Endocrine Changes Associated with Obesity in Children

Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes in Children

Molecular Genetics of Body Fatness

Heritability of Body Fatness

Single Gene Mutations Producing Obesity

Factors in the Pediatric Environment Affecting the Risk of Obesity and Adiposity-Related Morbidities

Pre-Natal Undernutrtion

Prenatal Overnutrition

Early Feeding Practices

Physical Activity

Energy Homeostasis

Identification of the Child Who is “At-risk” for Adiposity-related Morbidity

Initial Evaluation and Decision Whether or Not to Initiate Therapy (Figure 1)

Therapeutic Intervention (Figure 2)

Overview of Therapeutic Options

Diet

Therapeutic Exercise

Surgical and Pharmacological Intervention