Strategies for Weight Management in Children and Adolescents: Self-Regulated Nutrition, Family-School Collaboration, and Social Environment Optimization
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in China is rising at an alarming rate, with projections indicating that the national obesity rate will reach 15.1% by 2030. This trend not only affects physical development during childhood and adolescence but also has long-term implications for adult health outcomes. In response, the Chinese government has prioritized improving nutrition and preventing chronic diseases among children and adolescents. Facing this public health challenge, governments at all levels have implemented measures such as disseminating knowledge and skills for preventing overweight and obesity and improving sports facilities to foster a supportive environment conducive to the prevention of overweight and obesity. Schools contribute by improving food offerings and ensuring adequate time for physical activity when children attend school. Families play a critical role, with parents and caregivers guiding children toward healthy eating habits and monitoring their growth and weight. Children and adolescents are encouraged to adopt balanced diets, actively participate in physical exercise, and maintain psychological well-being to develop a positive and healthy mindset that supports their growth and long-term health. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, including unequal access to health resources and increasingly obesogenic environments. Future efforts should focus on utilizing digital technologies to develop precision intervention instruments and on formulating integrated strategies that engage society, schools, families, and individuals through policy guidance. Such comprehensive approaches aim to reduce the risks of obesity and its complications, enhance physical and mental health, and reduce healthcare and socioeconomic burdens.
Keywords: Child, Adolescent, Overweight/obesity, Weight management, Review
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