ABSTRACT
Childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health problems
facing the developed and, increasingly, the developing world.1,2 The
obesity epidemic is not simply a result of energy imbalance, but rather
a consequence of the complex interactions among biological, eco-
nomic, and social factors. The prevalence of obesity is increasing in
children of all ages. Obese children suffer from a host of co-morbidities,
some of which are immediately apparent, while others act as warning
signs of future disease. Although primary prevention is the most effec-
tive strategy in curbing the epidemic, treatment of those children who
are currently obese is needed to improve both their immediate and
long-term health outcomes.
