Barriers to Care for Pediatric Patients with Obesity

Life (Basel). 2024 Jul 17;14(7):884. doi: 10.3390/life14070884.

Abstract

This review article emphasizes the challenges pediatric patients face during obesity treatment. Prior research has been compartmentalized, acknowledging that stigma, the ability to implement lifestyle changes, social health determinants, and healthcare accessibility are considerable impediments for obese children. These issues emerge at various levels, including the individual or family, the community and school, and even national policy. This suggests the need for a more comprehensive, team-based approach to tackle pediatric obesity. Understanding these barriers is the first step toward creating effective strategies and solutions to overcome these challenges.

Keywords: barriers; health equity; obesity; pediatric obesity; stigma.

Publication types

  • Review

Grants and funding

National Institutes of Health NIDDK P30 DK04056, UE5 DK137285 (FCS), and U24 DK132733 (FCS).