Study reshaping how childhood obesity is identified

Key points

• A study led by Australian researchers suggests childhood obesity rates may be lower than previously thought when using a new global definition instead of Body Mass Index (BMI). The research, published on Wednesday, found clinical obesity affected 2.1 to 4.9 per cent of children and adolescents, compared with 7 to 10.8 per cent classified as obese using BMI criteria.
• The new definition considers excess body fat and obesity-related health problems, potentially reshaping how childhood obesity is identified and managed.
• Researchers say it could help clinicians make better-informed decisions about intervention and resource planning.