Why Excess Weight Is Especially Hard for Young People
For children and teenagers, carrying too much weight creates both physical and emotional strain. Many struggle with self-doubt, shame, or teasing from classmates. Some even face judgement from adults or medical staff. Most young people blame themselves for their weight, and around 70% believe they must handle it alone. But no child or adolescent should face these challenges without support — medical help is available.
How Obesity Develops in Children and Adolescents
Young people are not to blame for their body weight. Genetics influence between 50% and 90% of severe obesity, meaning the tendency to gain weight can begin long before birth. Babies who are overfed in the womb, not breastfed, or breastfed for too short a time have a higher risk later in life. The family environment also matters: learned eating habits, limited opportunities for movement, and lifestyle patterns can all contribute.
Modern living conditions further increase the risk. Many foods children eat today are highly processed — often too sweet, salty, or fatty. Combined with overeating and high-calorie diets, weight gain becomes likely. A lack of physical activity is another major factor. Children today often have fewer opportunities to play sports; playgrounds are limited, swimming pools are outdated, and many sports clubs closed during lockdowns.
Social background also plays a role. Children from disadvantaged families or those with a migration background have a higher risk of obesity. This also applies to students attending secondary or special needs schools. Psychological factors contribute as well: grief, parental divorce, loneliness, or feeling unloved can all trigger emotional eating. In some cases, underlying illnesses or certain medications can also lead to excessive weight gain.
Many Young People Don’t Realise They Have Obesity
About one in four adolescents do not recognise that they have obesity, and many parents are unaware as well. Half of parents hope their child will “grow out of it,” but untreated obesity carries serious long-term risks. While most young people want to lose weight, a third hesitate to talk to their parents and instead turn to social media for guidance. At the same time, many parents don’t know how to help, and nearly 87% of doctors report having no specialised training in treating childhood obesity. If left untreated, obesity greatly increases the risk of chronic disease.
Health Consequences of Childhood Obesity
Excess weight can lead to health issues even during adolescence, including high blood pressure, fatty liver, and blood sugar disorders. If obesity persists into adulthood, the risk of long-term complications increases, such as certain cancers, joint problems, and metabolic disease. Psychosocial stress is also significant. Young people who are very overweight face a 70% chance of remaining obese as adults. Even a 5–10% weight reduction can improve quality of life and reduce future health risks.
How Obesity Is Treated in Children and Adolescents
Treating obesity in adolescents is challenging. Traditional approaches — diet changes, exercise programs, and behavioural therapy — often show limited success. Weight loss surgery is only an option in exceptional cases because strict criteria must be met for minors. Early medical support, structured guidance, and long-term follow-up are crucial to help young people achieve healthier habits and prevent complications in adulthood.
