Childhood Obesity: A Growing Health Concern

Affecting nearly 1 in 3 youth in Canada, childhood obesity is a complex, chronic condition that can have serious and lasting impacts on a child’s physical and emotional well-being. It’s not simply about weight — it’s shaped by a range of factors, including genetics, mental health, family environment, and socioeconomic status.

Recognized as a progressive and stigmatized disease, childhood obesity can impair health, reduce quality of life, and increase the risk of medical complications that extend into adulthood.

New Pediatric Obesity Guidelines (2025)

In April 2025, Obesity Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Medical Association Journal, released the Canadian Pediatric Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines — the first major update since 2007.

These guidelines shift the narrative from blame to evidence-based care, emphasizing:

• A family-centered, individualized approach grounded in shared decision-making

• Multicomponent behavioural and psychological interventions as the foundation of care

• Consideration of pharmacologic and surgical options in select cases

• The importance of addressing stigma and using person-first, respectful language

• A multidisciplinary care model involving pediatricians, dietitians, psychologists, and other experts

🧠 These guidelines are a critical step toward building a compassionate, informed, and equitable system of care for children and youth living with obesity. Read full guidelines

Impact of Childhood Obesity

Children with obesity may face serious physical health risks including:

• High blood pressure or heart disease

• Type 2 diabetes

• Sleep apnea and breathing difficulties

• Abnormal or missed menstrual cycles

• Joint and bone problems

• Impaired coordination and balance

They also face significant mental and emotional health challenges:

• Low self-esteem and negative body image

• Depression and anxiety

• Social isolation and bullying

• Disordered eating behaviours

Weight-based stigma and teasing can worsen these outcomes, and that’s why supportive, non-judgmental care is essential.

The Importance of Family Support

Family plays a pivotal role in creating a safe, supportive environment for a child living with obesity. Your attitudes and language around weight directly shape your child’s self-image.

Positive Practices for Parents and Caregivers

• No food policing or restrictive diets: Focus on balanced, enjoyable meals without guilt or shame

• No fat shaming or glorifying thinness: Promote body diversity and unconditional acceptance

• No bathroom scales: Shift focus from weight to health and well-being

• Model body positivity: Celebrate your child’s strengths, and discourage sibling teasing or comparisons

The goal is not weight loss at any cost — it’s building confidence, resilience, and healthy habits.

Treatment Options for Childhood Obesity

Treating pediatric obesity involves a comprehensive approach tailored to the child and family’s needs. According to the 2025 guidelines, effective care includes:

🥗 Nutrition Therapy

Registered dietitians can help children and families:

• Understand food labels and portion sizes

• Choose nutrient-dense foods they enjoy

• Create sustainable eating patterns without restriction

🏃‍♀️ Physical Activity

Physical activity supports both mental and physical health. The CSEP Guidelines recommend that children and youth aged 5–17:

• Get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per day

• Add several hours of light physical activity through play and movement

💬 Behavioural Interventions

Behavioural therapies — including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing — help children and caregivers:

• Set realistic health goals

• Build problem-solving skills

• Foster emotional resilience and self-efficacy

💉Pharmacologic & Surgical Options

In select cases, and in consultation with specialized teams:

• GLP-1 medications (e.g., liraglutide, semaglutide) may be appropriate for youth aged 12+

• Metformin may help in some cases, particularly with insulin resistance

• Bariatric surgery (e.g., sleeve gastrectomy) may be considered for adolescents 13+ with severe obesity and related health risks

Obesity Matters’ Role in Advocacy and Support

At Obesity Matters, we believe that every child deserves access to compassionate, evidence-based care — no matter their size or background. We are committed to:

• Raising awareness about the complexity of pediatric obesity

• Fighting weight bias and stigma in healthcare and society

• Empowering families with tools, resources, and community support

• Advocating for policy change to improve access to care and long-term health outcomes

These new guidelines are a powerful step forward — but they are only the beginning. We will continue to work with health professionals, caregivers, and partners across Canada to ensure no child is left behind in their journey to wellness.

Together, let’s build a future where support, dignity, and access are the standard — not the exception.