Introduction:
Parental obesity with maternal gestational diabetes and birthweight has been linked to childhood obesity although data on the association with the severity and age of onset of childhood obesity is lacking.
Methodology:
This is a retrospective study of children aged 6 to 16 years old, who attended the weight management clinic, from January 2009 to December 2012. Patients’ clinical and anthropometric data were collected. Parental overweight status, birthweight, gestational diabetes and age of onset of obesity were self reported during the clinic visit.
Results:
A total of 416 patients ( 71% males) attended the clinic during the study period. Severity of obesity was significantly positively associated with birthweight in males (p=0.028). Severity of obesity was significantly positively associated with age of onset of obesity in both males and females (p=0.008). Presence of maternal gestational diabetes was associated with higher BMI SDS in males. No significant association was noted between parental obesity and age or severity of obesity at presentation.
Conclusion:
Larger birthweight and presence of maternal gestational diabetes has impact on the severity of obesity in males whereas the age of onset of obesity influence the severity of obesity in both males and females. Earlier screening for risk factors and presence of obesity will be important in obesity management.