Impact of Childhood Obesity on Mental Health, Behavioral Challenges, and Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Childhood obesity is a rapidly escalating public health concern globally, with significant implications for both physical and mental well-being. The prevalence of childhood obesity has more than doubled in the past three decades, affecting millions of children worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 340 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were classified as overweight or obese in 2016, a trend that shows no signs of abating. While the physical health consequences of childhood obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and orthopedic complications, have been extensively studied, its impact on mental health remains relatively underexplored. This observational study aims to address this gap by examining the complex relationship between child obesity and mental health, highlighting the psychological challenges faced by obese children and the broader social, environmental, and behavioral factors that contribute to this multifaceted issue.