Childhood obesity is becoming a critical public health issue in India, with alarming statistics pointing to its rapid growth. The increasing prevalence of childhood obesity among kids aged 5-15 in India raised concerns not only among low- and middle-income populations but also globally, as the country is projected to contribute 11% of the global burden of childhood obesity by 2030.

 A recent meta- analysis of 21 studies, which included 1,86,901 children from 2003-2023, revealed that 8.4% of children in rural areas were affected by obesity, while 12.4% were categorized as overweight. The study further highlights that male children have a higher risk of obesity compared to female children, and that children in private schools face a greater risk of obesity than their counterparts in government schools.

 India faces a dual challenge where malnourishment has been a longstanding issue, yet childhood obesity is now rapidly emerging as an equally critical concern. Over the past eight years, childhood obesity rates in the country have seen a staggering 50% increase, rising from 5.6% in 2015 to 8.4% in 2023.

According to Dr. Deepa Mohan Sharma, Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, parents must monitor their child’s growth trends from birth and stay vigilant for early signs of overweight and its associated complications.

She explains, “Parents should look for dark skin near the back and front of the neck and underarm regions, which may vary depending on the child’s skin tone. As the condition progresses, the skin becomes thicker with more prominent lines, ill-defined edges, and may develop a wart-like surface. Skin tags often appear in these areas. While usually harmless,these skin changes could indicate insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

Insulin resistance, in particular, has emerged as a significant health concern among children, with its incidence rising alongside childhood obesity rates. Studies now indicate that type 2 diabetes is being diagnosed in children as young as seven—a worrying trend that was previously rare in this age group. Contributing factors include early nutritional habits, such as formula feeding, eating food high in calories, sugary drinks and processed foods, which further exacerbate the risk of diabetes and other related conditions.

Dr. Sharma emphasizes that early detection is crucial. “Routine growth chart assessments, BMI checks, and regular health screenings are key to identifying obesity risks. Alongside monitoring skin changes, BP checks and understanding your child’s activity levels and dietary patterns is essential. Comprehensive evaluations can help rule out associated complications, such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, which are increasingly being diagnosed in children at very young ages,” she adds.

The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded the issue, replacing active playtime with excessive screen time and unhealthy eating habits. These factors contribute to a range of health concerns, including high cholesterol, joint pain, and weakened immunity. Poor gut health, influenced by diet and lifestyle, also plays a significant role in the development of chronic conditions and behavioral issues.

Parents can take proactive steps to address this growing concern by fostering healthier habits, encouraging balanced diets, limiting screen time, promoting outdoor play, and scheduling preventive health checks to monitor growth and development. Raising awareness and ensuring early intervention can help prevent long-term complications, paving the way for a healthier future for children.

Childhood obesity is a pressing public health issue with far-reaching consequences. Early awareness, preventive health checks, balanced diets, and regular physical activity are essential to address this growing concern. By instilling healthy habits from a young age, we can ensure stronger immunity, better mental well-being, and improved overall health. Tackling obesity today is crucial for securing a healthier and brighter future for the next generation.