CHILDHOOD OBESITY AND METABOLIC SYNDROME: UNRAVELING THE INTERPLAY OF LIFESTYLE, GENETICS, AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Abstract

Background: Childhood obesity is a significant health issue that is highly linked to the premature onset of metabolic syndrome (MetS), which depends on lifestyle, genetic and environmental factors. Objective: To determine the relationships between the lifestyle behaviours, family history, anthropometric measurements, and metabolic risk factors and indicators among children aged less than 18 years. Methods: The study was an analytical cross-sectional study that was carried out in Peshawar, MMC General Hospital, Pediatric department, among 180 children. Structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements with body mass index (BMI) and biochemical analyses of fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, and blood pressure were used to gather data. Descriptive statistics, correlation, regression and mediation analysis were used as the statistical methods. Results: There was a high incidence of overweight and premature metabolic abnormalities. The screen time and consumption of fast food were found to be significantly linked to an elevated BMI and metabolic risk, whereas the physical activity was found to be protective. Family history of obesity or diabetes was also associated with an increased metabolic syndrome risk score. There was some mediation of BMI between lifestyle behaviours and metabolic risk. Conclusion: Childhood obesity and metabolic syndrome are caused by various factors, which interact in a complex manner, such as lifestyle, genetic disposition, and environmental factors. The preventive measures need to be aimed at physical activity, improvement of diet and family-based interventions.