Prevention of Childhood Obesity: A Multifactorial and Interdisciplinary Approach

Background. Childhood obesity has been increasingly becoming one of the most significant public health challenges worldwide, with its substantial ties to long-term metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Aim. This review aims to analyze the main risk factors that lead to the development of obesity among the pediatric population, as well as to summarize the current preventative strategies. Materials and methods. A narrative literature review has been conducted using the PubMed database, including original studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published between 2015 and 2025. Results. The evidence gathered leads to the conclusion that childhood obesity is largely influenced by genetic predisposition, sedentary lifestyle, excessive screen time, insufficient sleep, unhealthy dietary patterns, and socioeconomic determinants. Conclusions. To prevent further exacerbation of the problem, several strategies can be implemented, including early nutritional interventions, promotion of regular physical activity, limitation of screentime, sleep hygiene education, school-based health programs, and active involvement of caregivers. The issue needs to be handled using interdisciplinary measures to influence individual behaviors and environmental factors to reduce long-term health consequences.