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Childhood Adiposity

Meaning

Childhood Adiposity refers to the excessive and unhealthy accumulation of body fat mass in pediatric and adolescent populations, representing a state of chronic energy imbalance where caloric intake consistently exceeds expenditure. This condition is not merely a weight issue but a significant endocrinological and metabolic risk factor, often presenting with early signs of insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. It is clinically assessed using age- and sex-specific Body Mass Index (BMI) percentiles and other body composition measures. The presence of excess, dysfunctional adipose tissue in youth establishes a critical foundation for lifelong metabolic challenges and chronic disease risk.