The prevalence of obesity in the general population has significantly increased during the last twenty years. Obesity in children has doubled and quadrupled in adolescents in the last thirty years.

Why should we care about childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity is a serious concern that needs better and earlier management. An NHS survey estimated that 28% of children aged between 2 and 15 were classed as medically overweight or obese. Overweight/obese children are far more likely to stay or become obese in adulthood and risk complications such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and certain cancers.

The World Health Organisation notes that childhood obesity increases the risk of premature death and disability in later life.

Obesity in children has a serious impact on their social interaction, confidence and performance in school.

Although children with COVID-19 are less likely than adults to be admitted in hospital, they are still at risk  if they have preexisting obesity, diabetes, or asthma. Obesity puts children with COVID-19 at risk for severe illness. One study found that obesity was the most commonly occurring underlying medical condition in children hospitalised for COVID-19.

Our mission is to help young people overcome their struggle with weight, mend their relationship with food and enjoy the quality of life that they deserve.

Our Approach

We have an empathetic team of specialists who manage not only childhood obesity but provide holistic support for the family.

Our highly qualified specialist team, treat children aged between 12 to 18 for now. We are the only medically supervised weight management service that caters for this age group. Our team includes Adult bariatric physician, paediatric endocrinologist, dietitian and a Child psychologist.

For young people it is vital that they have the support of their family/guardians to ensure long-term success. You and your child will have a detailed initial consultation with a specialist to determine the true underlying cause(s) of weight gain. After the initial consultation with the family, a detailed consultation with a paediatric endocrinologist will take place as part of the plan to determine if there are any underlying issues leading to weight gain. Following this, a tailored comprehensive 12-week plan will be devised and delivered by our multi-disciplinary team.

Whilst all our plans take a holistic approach by using the 3 key pillars of healthy diet, exercise and mental wellness, the key to success in weight management for children is the continuous involvement of their loved ones. Our main focus is on healthy growth whilst addressing weight.

We keep family/guardians in the loop and get them participating actively in the process to achieve the desired end result, a healthy child in a happy and supportive family environment. Regular engagement of the parents and child is the key to long term success.

How can my child join the plan?

If you’d like to bring your child in for a consultation, please fill in our “Request an Appointment” form or email us at [email protected]. During the consultation a doctor will assess the needs of the child along with the family before offering the most suitable path forward.

Please note that a parent or guardian is always required to be present during the consultation.

Read more about Childhood Obesity on our blogs page

Paediatric Endocrinologist’s Perspective of Childhood Obesity

Watch our video on the Specialist Weight Loss for Children & Teens plan