Rising Trends in Severe Childhood Obesity and Associated Health Risks

Childhood obesity rates have significantly increased over the past few decades, with data indicating a fourfold rise from 1990 to 2022. This surge is accompanied by a growing spectrum of health complications among affected children. Traditionally, childhood obesity is categorized based on BMI percentiles, with class 1 at or above the 95th percentile, class 2 ranging from 120% to 140% of the 95th percentile, and class 3 (severe obesity) at or above 140% of the 95th percentile. However, recent research from the University of California San Diego proposes further classification, introducing class 4 (BMI from 160% to 180% of the 95th percentile) and class 5 (BMI over 180% of the 95th percentile) to better understand the health implications of extremely severe obesity.

A comprehensive study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed data from 25,847 children and adolescents between 2008 and 2023, revealing an alarming 253% increase in the prevalence of extreme obesity during this period. The rise was most pronounced in teenagers aged 16 to 18 and among non-Hispanic Black children. The investigations highlight that children with extremely severe obesity face markedly higher risks of metabolic conditions such as diabetes, prediabetes, and liver disease, along with increased insulin resistance. Notably, all children in the top classes of obesity showed higher rates of these health issues compared to those with lower BMI levels.

The health consequences extend beyond individual well-being, placing substantial burdens on families and healthcare systems. Untreated obesity-related conditions can escalate into serious illnesses, including cirrhosis, liver cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. The financial costs associated with managing these chronic diseases are significant and continue to grow.

The authors of the study emphasize the urgent need for preventive strategies, targeted education, and resource allocation to address this escalating public health challenge. Recognizing extreme obesity as a pressing health emergency underscores the importance of early intervention to mitigate long-term health risks in children and adolescents.

This growing trend of severe childhood obesity calls for an integrated response involving policy changes, community programs, and healthcare initiatives to reverse the trajectory and safeguard the health of future generations. For more details, consult the original study: Eliane Münte et al, "Prevalence of Extremely Severe Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction Among US Children and Adolescents," JAMA Network Open, 2025. source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-extremely-severe-obesity-kids-barrage.html