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Childhood Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Excess weight combined with metabolic disturbances raises early cardiovascular risk.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Childhood Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome?

Pediatric metabolic syndrome is a clustering of abdominal obesity (waist circumference ≥90th percentile) with glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and fatty liver. Its prevalence reaches 30-50% in obese children.

The IDF criteria for ages 10-16: abdominal obesity plus 2 additional criteria (high triglycerides, low HDL, hypertension, impaired fasting glucose). A definitive diagnosis is not made between ages 6-10, but risk is assessed.

The cornerstone of treatment is lifestyle modification: nutrition, physical activity, screen-time limits, sleep hygiene, and family involvement. In refractory cases, medication (metformin) and bariatric surgery (adolescent) are considered.

Symptoms

Abdominal obesity and excess weight
Acanthosis nigricans (neck, axilla)
Striae (skin lines)
Hypertension
High triglycerides and low HDL
Fatty liver (NAFLD)

Risk Factors

Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Family history of diabetes, dyslipidemia, early CVD
Low birth weight
Eating disorders
Insufficient sleep
Excessive screen time

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Routine evaluation of an obese child
  • When acanthosis nigricans is detected
  • When there is a family history of early diabetes and CVD
  • When hypertension is found
  • When liver enzymes are elevated

Treatment Methods

01
Family-based lifestyle modification
02
Nutrition counseling and weight control
03
Physical activity (>60 min/day)
04
Screen time <2 hours
05
Metformin (in selected patients aged 10+)
06
Cardiovascular risk screening

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.