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Childhood obesity should be treated early with aggressive treatments, including anti-obesity drugs and weight-loss surgery, according to new guidelines released Monday.
The American Academy of Pediatrics’ guideline — the first in 15 years — suggested that children struggling with obesity should be evaluated and offered intensive treatment options earlier, such as medications for children as young as 12 and surgery for those as young as 13. According to the group, delaying treatment or practicing «watchful waiting» will only exacerbate the disease.
“There is no evidence that ‘watchful waiting’ or delayed treatment is appropriate for children with obesity,” said Dr. Sandra Hassink, co-author of the guideline and medical director for the AAP Institute for Healthy Childhood Weight, in a statement.
More than 14.4 million children and teens in the United States are affected by obesity, according to the AAP. When left untreated, obesity can cause serious short and long-term health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and depression.
The group’s guidance «highlights more evidence than ever that obesity treatment is safe and effective,» according to an AAP news release.
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The guideline sets ages for when children and teens can be offered medical treatments such as medication and surgery — in addition to exercise, dieting, and other behavioral or lifestyle interventions, said Dr.
