Rising Concerns About Children’s Health
The alarming trends in children’s health are becoming increasingly evident, with a growing number of young people facing serious health challenges. One of the most pressing issues is the obesity epidemic among youth, where over 20% of children are now classified as obese. As an experienced internist, I can confirm that today’s obese child may well become tomorrow’s adult with type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or even stroke.
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal that a third of children aged 12 to 17 have pre-diabetes. This condition is distinct from type 1 diabetes, which is typically autoimmune or genetic in nature. Instead, pre-diabetes refers to type 2 diabetes, where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin to process glucose effectively, leading to insulin resistance. While not yet full-blown diabetes, pre-diabetes poses significant risks, including damage to kidneys, coronary arteries, retinas, and nerves—regardless of whether the condition progresses to type 2 diabetes.
The Role of GLP1 Agonists
Given these concerns, there has been a surge in interest in GLP1 agonist drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which have shown remarkable effectiveness in managing glucose levels and promoting weight loss. These medications also appear to offer cardioprotective benefits and may even support brain health. However, despite their potential, it is not advisable to prescribe them to all children with weight or sugar-related issues.
There are several reasons for this caution. First, these drugs can cause gastrointestinal side effects and intolerance. There are also reports of optical side effects, such as headaches, macular degeneration, and even vision loss, which require further study. Additionally, concerns about thyroid cancer have emerged, and long-term safety data for children remain limited. If a child begins using these medications, they may need to take them for life, raising questions about the long-term impact on their health.
Balancing Risks and Benefits
While the benefits of GLP1 agonists clearly outweigh the risks for many adults, the same cannot be said for most children. At a time when social media and excessive screen time are contributing to poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles, rushing to use these drugs as a quick fix could be counterproductive. Many children are consuming ultra-processed, high-sugar foods and not engaging in enough physical activity, making lifestyle changes a more sustainable solution.
That is not to say that these medications should never be used. If a child is at high risk of developing diabetes or heart disease due to their weight, and no other options are viable, these drugs may be necessary. However, for most children, lifestyle modifications should be the first line of defense.
A Call for Comprehensive Care
For children with persistent obesity or pre-diabetes, involving a nutritionist and an endocrinologist can provide tailored guidance and support. But for the majority of cases, it is essential to prioritize long-term lifestyle changes rather than relying on medication as a shortcut.
Improving children’s diets and encouraging physical activity are critical steps toward reversing the current health crisis. It is a complex challenge that requires collective effort from families, schools, and healthcare providers. While the road ahead is long, starting now is crucial to ensuring a healthier future for our children.
