Childhood Obesity: Global Burden, Multifactorial Etiologies, Biological Mechanisms, and Emerging Interventions for Prevention and Management.

Childhood obesity, characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat that adversely affects health, is a global public health challenge. It affects approximately 8.2% of children and adolescents globally and contributes significantly to the burden of chronic diseases in later life. Obese children are at increased risk of developing metabolic disorder cluster, type 2 diabetes (T2D), coronary artery disease (CAD), and psychosocial complications. Increasing prevalence of childhood obesity imposes substantial economic costs and highlights the urgent need for effective prevention and management strategies. The causes of childhood obesity are multifactorial including genetic predispositions, environmental influences, dietary habits, and physical inactivity. Early intervention focusing on lifestyle modifications remains the cornerstone of treatment; however, pharmacological and surgical options are considered in severe cases. This paper provides an overview of the latest evidence regarding the prevalence, causes, and potential solutions for childhood obesity, emphasizing its critical role in preventing chronic diseases.