Información sobre la obesidad infantil

Última actualización: 7/17/2026

Childhood obesity is a serious health condition that affects millions of children and adolescents in the United States.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity affects nearly 1 in 5 children and adolescents ages 2 to 19. Childhood obesity can increase the risk of health problems during childhood and later in life, but families can take steps to support healthy growth and development.

Obesity is typically evaluated using body mass index (BMI) percentiles that account for a child's age and sex. Childhood obesity can increase the risk of health problems during childhood and later in life, but understanding its causes, health risks, and prevention strategies can help families support healthy growth and development.

Key facts about childhood obesity

• Childhood obesity affects nearly 20% of U.S. children and adolescents.
• Childhood obesity can affect physical, emotional, and social well-being.
• Healthy eating, regular physical activity, quality sleep, and routine healthcare visits can help support a healthy weight.
• Early intervention can help reduce the risk of long-term health complications.

What is childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity occurs when a child's body weight is higher than what is considered healthy for their age and height. Healthcare providers use BMI percentiles to assess growth patterns and determine whether a child may be overweight or have obesity.

According to the CDC, obesity affects children of all backgrounds and is influenced by a variety of behavioral, genetic, social, and environmental factors.

A BMI percentile at or above the 95th percentile for children of the same age and sex is generally considered obesity. BMI is only one screening tool and does not tell the complete story. A healthcare provider can evaluate a child's overall health, growth pattern, activity level, and other factors before making recommendations.

Parents who want to better understand their child’s growth can use the CDC’s Child and Teen BMI Calculator as a starting point. Results should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

What causes childhood obesity?

There is rarely a single cause of childhood obesity. According to the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, obesity is influenced by a combination of behavioral, genetic, environmental, and social factors that can affect a child’s ability to maintain a healthy weight.

Factores relacionados con la conducta

Diet and activity habits play an important role in maintaining a healthy weight. Consuming excess calories, drinking sugary beverages, spending significant time on screens, and getting too little physical activity can contribute to weight gain.

Factores ambientales 

A child's environment can influence daily habits. Limited access to healthy foods, fewer opportunities for physical activity, neighborhood safety concerns, and busy family schedules can make healthy choices more difficult.

Genetics and family history

Genetics may affect how the body stores and uses energy. Children with a family history of obesity may have a higher risk, although healthy habits can still have a positive impact.

Medical conditions and medications

Some medical conditions and medications can contribute to weight gain. Parents with concerns should speak with their child's healthcare provider to determine whether additional evaluation is needed.

What are the health risks of childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity can affect both immediate health and long-term well-being. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), children with obesity may face physical, emotional, and social challenges that can continue into adulthood.

Potential health risks include:

Physical health concerns

Children with obesity may be at greater risk for developing health conditions that were once seen primarily in adults.

• Presión arterial alta
• Colesterol alto
• Diabetes tipo 2
• Asma
• Fatty liver disease

Emotional and social challenges

In addition to physical health concerns, obesity can affect a child’s emotional well-being and social experiences.

• Low self-esteem
• Anxiety or depression
• Bullying or social stigma
• Reduced confidence in social situations

Long-term health effects

Without intervention, some childhood health risks may continue into adulthood and increase the likelihood of chronic disease.

• Increased likelihood of obesity in adulthood
• Higher risk of heart disease
• Greater risk of stroke
• Increased risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions

How can parents help prevent childhood obesity?

Parents and caregivers play an important role in supporting healthy habits. The CDC advises that parents and caregivers can be mindful of the following ways to help their child maintain a healthy weight:

1. Encourage regular physical activity. At least 60 minutes of physical activity each day is ideal for children. Activities can include sports, biking, walking, active play, or family activities.
2. Build healthy eating habits. Offer fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Limiting sugary drinks and highly processed foods can also support healthy growth.
3. Find childcare that supports healthy habits. Review policies and practices for nutrition and physical activity with your child’s school or daycare center.
4. Reduce recreational screen time. Excessive screen time can reduce opportunities for physical activity and may contribute to unhealthy eating habits.
5. Establish simple routines for better sleep. Healthy sleep patterns are critical to maintain a healthy weight. Preschoolers need 10-13 hours of sleep per day, which includes nap time. Children 6-12 years old need 9-12 hours of sleep per night.

When should you talk with your child’s doctor?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), parents should consider discussing weight-related concerns with a healthcare provider if:

• Their child has experienced significant or rapid weight gain.
• They have concerns about their child’s BMI or growth pattern.
• Their child has health conditions that may be affected by weight.
• They need guidance on nutrition, physical activity, or healthy lifestyle changes.
• Weight concerns are affecting their child’s emotional well-being.

Healthcare providers can help families develop realistic goals that support healthy growth rather than focusing solely on the number on a scale.

Finding a doctor for your child

Supporting a child’s health often starts with preventive care and trusted guidance. If you need help finding a primary care provider or pediatrician, use MyCareFinder to locate participating pediatricians and primary care providers in your area.

Preguntas frecuentes

What causes childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity is typically caused by a combination of factors, including diet, physical activity levels, genetics, environment, sleep habits, and certain medical conditions or medications.

Can childhood obesity be prevented?

While not every case can be prevented, healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and routine healthcare visits can help reduce a child’s risk.

What is a healthy BMI for a child?

Unlike adults, children are evaluated using BMI percentiles based on age and sex. A healthcare provider can help determine whether a child’s BMI falls within a healthy range.

What are the long-term effects of childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity can increase the risk of health conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity in adulthood.