GLOBAL BURDEN OF OBESITY IN CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE: TRENDS, REGIONAL DISPARITIES, AND INSIGHTS FROM SOUTH ASIA TO DEVELOPED COUNTRIES (2000–2020)

Abstract

Childhood obesity, particularly among children under five years of age, has emerged as a significant global health issue, with a notable increase in prevalence across various regions of the world from 2000 to 2020. This review examines the epidemiological patterns, etiology, and clinical impact of childhood obesity between 2000 and 2020, with particular attention paid to South Asian countries in relation to both developing and developed countries. The analysis highlights an increasing obesity rate worldwide, attributed to nutritional changes, less active lifestyles, urbanization, and socio-environmental modifications. Etiological factors such as lack of physical activity, an unbalanced diet, genetic factors, hormonal disorders, and exposure to the environment, as well as the contribution of perinatal and behavioral factors, are reviewed in detail. The review also describes implications of early-onset obesity, including the development of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and comorbidities in relation to other psychological disorders. Special consideration is given to South Asia, where the phenomenon of an underweight population coexists with the problem of incipient obesity in the context of highly complicated socio-economic and cultural processes. Prevention and management strategies exist in areas like infant feeding practices, physical activity, sleep hygiene, community education, and policy interventions. Moreover, evidence-based recommendations that underline the value of early intervention, multi-sectoral integrated strategies, and enhanced surveillance systems are discussed. This evidence has practical implications that public health professionals and policymakers can use to help reduce the extent of childhood obesity in the future and create a healthier outlook in various parts of the world.