Prevalence of US youth who are overweight or with obesity raises concerns: Study

Summary: A recent study analyzed the health records of over 6 million children across the United States, and the results have doctors concerned. The report found that nearly 20% of youth between ages 2 and 19 have obesity. The numbers are even higher for teenagers, with almost 40% of those aged 12 to 19 being overweight or having obesity. Dr. William Heerman from Vanderbilt emphasizes that while this is a serious condition that starts early, it is something we can change. He points out that effective treatments—like nutrition counseling and behavioral programs—already exist. The key is catching it early and giving families the support they need.

For more details, see vumc at news.vumc.org/2026/02/25/prevalence-of-u-s-youth-who-are-overweight-or-with-obesity-raises-concerns-for-pediatricians-study/ (opens in new tab)