EVALUATION OF FAMILY HISTORY BURDEN IN OBESITY AMONG 6-7-YEAR-OLD CHILDREN AT PRE-SCHOOL SCREENING IN SOUTHERN RUSSIAN CITIES

Abstract

This cross-sectional cohort study evaluated the frequency and structure of family history burden for obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and thyroid disorders among 1,080 children aged 6-7 years with excess body weight undergoing pre-school medical screening in Volgograd (n=605) and Vladikavkaz (n=475). Children with type 1 diabetes, chromosomal syndromes, and secondary endocrine obesity were excluded, while those with type 2 diabetes secondary to obesity were retained. Obesity severity was assessed using WHO centile charts and BMI Z-scores. Children from Volgograd demonstrated significantly higher BMI, Z-scores, and prevalence of grade 1 obesity compared to their peers from Vladikavkaz. Family history analysis revealed a higher frequency of parental obesity, including bilateral obesity, and type 2 diabetes among relatives in the Volgograd cohort, whereas thyroid pathology was significantly more common in families from Vladikavkaz, particularly along the maternal line. The strongest predictors of severe obesity were the combination of parental obesity and type 2 diabetes (OR = 4.12) and bilateral parental obesity (OR = 3.45), while thyroid pathology showed no significant association with obesity severity. Multivariable regression confirmed bilateral parental obesity, parental type 2 diabetes, and residence in Volgograd as independent predictors of severe obesity. These findings reveal interpopulation differences in obesity patterns and hereditary burden between the two cities. Bilateral parental obesity and combined parental obesity with T2DM are key markers of high risk for severe obesity. Our results support region-specific screening and preventive strategies tailored to regional and population-genetic characteristics.