Management of obesity in children and adolescents: Lifestyle and exercise options

Childhood obesity remains a major public health and social issue. Its’ prevalence has grown significantly over the last 30years and it is expected to rise further in future years. The physical, psychological, social, emotional, and economic consequences of obesity are significant on both the individual and society as a whole. There is a moderate evidence base for the treatment of childhood obesity, with many reviews suggesting that weight management (WM) programs can be both effective and cost effective. That said, data on longer term efficacy is currently limited, as is that for specialist weight management services and pharmacotherapy. This chapter sets out to discuss a range of WM programs and their component parts, how to ensure appropriate services are referred to, and distill the evidence base around effectiveness. We also place WM in the context of the wider political systems in the UK - those which fundamentally shape the offer available to families in need. In this Edition 3 update, we highlight recent advancements and contemporary issues in childhood WM provision.