Home / Health / WHO: Weight-loss jabs for kids as young as ten
WHO: Weight-loss jabs for kids as young as ten
8 Oct
Summary
- WHO suggests weight-loss jabs for children aged ten plus.
- Obese children may need diet, exercise before medication.
- Surgery like gastric bands considered for severely obese kids.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its initial recommendations for treating childhood obesity, suggesting that weight-loss jabs could be considered for children as young as ten years old. This guidance specifies that such treatments should only be pursued after patients have attempted to manage their weight through diet and exercise.
For children with severe obesity, the WHO also indicated that surgical procedures, such as fitting gastric bands or sleeves, might be considered for those aged ten and above. However, a WHO director stressed that the primary focus remains on non-medical interventions. Access to support for healthy eating, physical activity, and sustainable behavior change is crucial for all children struggling with obesity.