New research challenges the notion that metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) in children is harmless. A large study of 7,275 obese children in Sweden found those with MHO still faced significantly higher risks of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia by age 30.
Compared to the general population, MHO children showed a 9.1% incidence of type 2 diabetes, 10.8% hypertension, and 5.3% dyslipidaemia. Even modest weight loss in childhood reduced these risks, regardless of initial metabolic status.
These findings suggest current guidelines may need revision. Pediatric obesity treatment should be offered to all children, not just those with metabolic complications.