ISS reports over 70% of adolescents with obesity remain obese in adulthood

A recent conference organized by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS) and the Associazione Medici Endocrinologi (AME Ets) highlighted that childhood obesity is a chronic condition rather than a transient phase. Longitudinal studies indicate that approximately 55% of obese children remain obese through adolescence, and over 70% of adolescents with obesity carry the condition into adulthood.

This phenomenon, known as obesity tracking, is driven by a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. The persistence of obesity increases long-term risks for metabolic, cardiovascular, and oncological complications, as well as mental health issues. Experts emphasize that adolescence is a critical window for intervention to alter the disease trajectory.

In Italy, surveillance data from Okkio alla Salute shows that among 8-9 year olds, approximately 19% are overweight and 10% are obese, with 2.6% suffering from severe obesity. While showing slight improvements, these figures place Italy among the European countries with the highest prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity.