Abstracts of the pediatric obesity, a global health issue conference

Obesity management in the family doctor’s office

Remus-Sebastian Șipoș¹, Andrei Ungur², Sorana Bălan³

1. Primary family medicine, registered dietician, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureş, Romania

2. Specialist in family medicine, Individual family medicine practice, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

3. Resident in family medicine, Mureş County Clinical Hospital, Romania

Corresponding author: Remus-Sebastian Șipoș, e-mail: dr_rsipos@yahoo.com

Introduction. In Romania, obesity is more common among men than women. According to the study Obesity in Romania, conducted by the Romanian Association for the Study of Obesity (ORO), overweight and obesity affect 64.6% of men, compared to 45% of women. Also, the prevalence of obesity increases with age: if among adults under 39 years of age there is a rate of 9.9%, it rises to 30.1% for the 40-59 age group, and it reaches 41.6% for people over 60 years old. Materials and method. The study was carried out through the CME credited course “Increasing efficiency in approaching the patient with obesity”, organized by the “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, in collaboration with the Association of General Practitioners – Family Physicians Mureş, where, with the help of two pre- and post-course questionnaires, we surveyed 85 family doctors from Mureș County, both from urban and rural areas. Results. The study highlighted the need for specialized nutritional intervention (40% pre-course, 60% post-course), 82% of respondents considering the advice offered by a dietitian as a tool that would determine the adoption of a healthy and active lifestyle. Sixty-four percent of the participants claim that counseling carried out by qualified personnel helps both to prevent and to manage the evolution of certain chronic diseases. Conclusions. Obesity needs to be addressed not only as a risk factor, but also as a lifestyle, and intervention on the risks of obesity needs to take place at an early age. Regarding the monitoring and counseling of overweight and obese people, it is useful to be the object of a mixed doctor-dietician team.

Keywords: obesity, family doctor, nutritional counselling

Pediatric obesity in the family doctor’s office

Paula Almășan-Șulea

“George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

Corresponding author: Paula Almășan-Șulea, e-mail: paula-anca.almasan@umfst.ro

Pediatric obesity is a growing public health concern, with long-term implications for metabolic and cardiovascular health. In the family doctor’s office, children undergo regular health evaluations from birth until the age of 18, enabling early detection and intervention for obesity. These evaluations include monitoring growth parameters, Body Mass Index (BMI), dietary habits, physical activity, and associated metabolic disorders. Monitoring includes two visits to the patient’s home at the ages of 1 month and 2 months, monthly until 6 months old, then at 9 and 12 months of life, and later, annually, until the age of 18. According to national healthcare policies, family doctors play a crucial role in screening, prevention and guidance for both children and parents. Regular medical checkups provide an opportunity to implement personalized interventions and promote a healthy lifestyle. The family doctor’s involvement is essential in early identification and management of obesity, reducing its future health risks.

Keywords: pediatric obesity, family medicine, BMI monitoring, early intervention, child health screening

The link between nutrition during pregnancy and pediatric obesity

Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei

Pediatric Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș; County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistriţa, Romania

Corresponding author: Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei, e-mail: heidrun.adumitrăchioaiei@umfst.ro

The British epidemiologist David Barker was the one who opened the path to understanding the importance of intrauterine life, stating that “the womb may be more important than the home”. Based on this idea, we aim to highlight the impact that a pregnant woman’s nutrition has on the nutritional status of the developing fetus, both during intrauterine life and after birth. Therefore, it is essential for a pregnant woman to adopt a balanced lifestyle, with nutrition that includes the macro- and micronutrients necessary for healthy development, and with an energy intake adapted to each stage of pregnancy, avoiding both caloric excess and nutritional restriction. Studies show that both maternal obesity and maternal undernutrition predispose the child to obesity. Birth weight, an important predictor of the child’s later weight, is the result of the interaction between the fetal genome and maternal and placental factors. This reflects the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis, which is based on metabolic programming during intrauterine life and the subsequent emergence of noncommunicable chronic diseases. In conclusion, the nutritional approach to pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary effort, involving primarily the family physician, the gynecologist and the nutritionist, as well as public health education campaigns to help women understand the importance of proper nutrition during pregnancy.

Keywords: multidisciplinary effort, nutrition, pregnancy, balanced lifestyle, obesity

Effective diversification – at the boundary between family doctor and pediatrician

Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei^1,2, Andrei Ungur³

1. Pediatric Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

2. County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistrița, Romania

3. Individual family medicine practice, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

Corresponding author: Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei, e-mail: heidrun.adumitrăchioaiei@umfst.ro

Food diversification is an essential process in a child’s development, marking the transition from breast milk or formula to the introduction of solid foods, being part of the 1000 days that represent the foundation of the future child and adult, and, in conclusion, an essential part of the prevention of pediatric obesity. A meta-analysis published in Paediatrics highlighted that a diverse diet in the first years of life is associated with a lower risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes in adulthood. A study conducted by Cooke et al. demonstrated that children exposed to a wide range of foods in the first two years of life tend to accept new and healthy foods more easily in early childhood and adolescence. About baby-led weaning (BLW), Brown and Lee state that it can contribute to better appetite regulation and healthier eating in the long term, as children learn to recognize signs of fullness. Cameron et al. argue that traditional feeding can provide a more consistent nutritional intake, as parents can include a variety of nutrient-rich foods in purees, this method also reducing the risk of choking. In conclusion, food diversification is an essential pillar for healthy development, which requires good communication between the family doctor and the pediatrician, so that, as a team, we convey the same information to the parents, thus increasing the level of trust in the medical team, as well as the chances of preventing pediatric obesity.

Keywords: obesity, good communication, team, fami­ly doctor, pediatrician

Transdisciplinary approach to recommended foods for the prevention or improvement of pediatric obesity

Irina Matran

“George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureş, Romania

Corresponding author: Irina Matran, e-mail: irina.matran@umfst.ro

Introduction. In parallel with the development of technology and artificial intelligence, this century is characterized by changing lifestyles with consequen­ces for the health of children and adults. Purpose of the research. Identifying the transdisciplinary factors underlying research – food development, manufacturing or preparation of foods recommended for the prevention/improvement of pediatric obesity. Materials and method. The PubMed, Web of Science and ResearchGate databases were consulted for the period 2020-2025. Scientific articles in the fields of food technology and control, food chemistry, nutrition, medicine and pharmacy were analyzed. In the case of scientific articles in the health field, original articles that presented the results of preclinical and clinical studies, as well as review articles were analyzed. Results. The factors that influence the sensory and technological quality, safety and action in the body are transdisciplinary: agropedoclimatic conditions, cultivation method (organic or conventional), harvest period, pesticide residue (e.g., antifungals applied for the transport and storage of certain plant resources), processing method (household, industrial, public catering units), packaging and consumption method, mass media, social factors, body homeostasis, and lifestyle. The verification of preclinical/clinical efficacy of adjuvant foods in the prevention or improvement of pediatric obesity involves specific measurements and calculations, along with biochemical analyses, including liver enzymes, and endocrinological analyses. Two other essential factors in the process of preventing/improving pediatric obesity are represented by the communication between family members of obese children and health professionals, the implementation and legislation of nutrivigilance in Romania. Conclusions. Adjunctive foods in the prevention or amelioration of pediatric obesity require multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary knowledge.

Keywords: food, pediatric obesity, safety, liver enzymes

Correlation between eating habits and orodental health in children

Ana-Gabriela Seni

“George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureş, Romania

Corresponding author: Ana-Gabriela Seni, e-mail: gabrielaseni@gmail.com

Background. By correcting dentomaxillary function, we promote a healthy lifestyle. The purpose of this educational lesson was to provide age-appropriate medical information for children and to improve the correct habits for children with ages between 6 and 10 years old. Materials and method. For this, we interacted with a number of 80 children from schools in Bistrița-Năsăud. I presented oral pathology for children: temporary and permanent tooth decay and his complications; Gingivitis and periodontal disease, presence of microbial dental plaque and calculus, incorrect and incomplete brushing; Dentomaxilary anomalies; Accidents, dental fractures, dental luxation and avulsion; Soft tissue pathology: frenulum, mucosa of the oral cavity. We presented the dentomaxilary functions: neck position, type of breathing, mastication, swallowing, phonation, physiognomy, self-maintenance. We explained the masticatory steps. The discussions were interactive. We used demonstrative materials like power points, models with the oral cavity and teeth, and different types of tooth brush. Films and pictures were done with the parents’ approval, and they were sent to them for information. Results. We achieved correct food habits and good oral hygiene habits, both for children, families and teachers. Conclusions. Wrong functions and bad eating habits can be observed by children, parents and teachers. Children learn good habits through theoretical lessons and practical demonstrations.

Keywords: health education, food habits, oral hygiene

Contribution of ultrasound in obesity

Alice-Gabriela Iftime¹, Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei^1,2

1. County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistrița, Romania

2. Pediatric Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

Corresponding author: Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei, e-mail: heidrun.adumitrăchioaiei@umfst.ro

Adipose tissue (AT) is a highly dynamic organ widespread in the human body, with an almost unlimited capacity to expand during obesity, that can be classified based on the cellular composition of the different depots and their distinct anatomic localization. Massive expansion and remodeling of AT during obesity affects specific AT depots and significantly contributes to cardiometabolic risk, which potentiates the need to identify appropriate and accurate methods to identify and monitor those at most risk. Appropriate techniques for the assessment of adiposity are required to identify and monitor persons at risk. Not only the total amount of fat, but also the amount of body fat determines the risks for metabolic and cardiovascular disease. Two types of abdominal fat deposits – subcutaneous AT and visceral AT – have been extensively studied in relation to metabolic diseases. Obesity and mainly distinct fat depots can be assessed by various clinical and paraclinical methods. Imaging techniques such as MRI and CT to directly assess fat are expensive, time-consuming, not widely available and, therefore, not well suited for clinical practice, an alternative method being represented by echography (ultrasonography; US). US is a highly adaptable medical imaging modality that offers several applications and a wide range of uses in obesity and its comorbidities. Although identifying adiposity using ultrasonography is not always easy, this technique has proven to be promising in the evaluation of obesity in children and adults, still requiring validation and standardization in certain situations. Several ultrasound techniques can be used to improve visualization in obese people. The ultrasound modality encompasses a diverse range of modes and mechanisms that serve to enhance the methodology of pathology and physiology assessment. Doppler imaging, US elastography and QUS (quantitative ultrasonography) are such techniques that contribute to this expansion, including in case of obesity. Understanding the challenges and techniques ensures the optimal care of obese patients.

Keywords: adipose tissue fat, obesity, cardiometabolic risk, obesity-related comorbidities, imaging techniques applications, ultrasonography

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in children – a new paradigm

Oana-Cristina Mărginean¹, Maria-Oana Săsăran²

1. Pediatric Department 1, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

2. Pediatric Department 3, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

Corresponding author: Oana-Cristina Mărginean, e-mail: oana.marginean@umfst.ro

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in pediatric patients is a multifactorial pathology in which the interaction of environmental factors with genetic ones plays an essential role. It can take various forms, from hepatic steatosis to steatohepatitis with/without fibrosis. The risk factors for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are obesity, sedentary lifestyle, low birth weight, male sex, race (more frequently Hispanic), along with genetic predisposition. The clinical picture is dominated by fatigue, diffuse abdominal pain, malaise, hepatomegaly and acanthosis nigricans. The laboratory highlights increased transaminases and changes in the liver structure, visible on ultrasound examination (the degree of fibrosis can also be assessed during elastography). The early identification of elevated transaminases, and normalizing them through lifestyle changes and weight loss are the main goals of therapeutic management. Reducing intake, consuming foods with a lower glycemic index, and increasing the intake of polyunsatura­ted fats, along with reducing fructose intake, are healthy dietary measures in this pathology. In conclusion, we can state that the changes in transaminases and the hepatic structure observed in ultrasound examinations of obese pediatric patients are important evaluation elements and are preferable in children. Medication therapy is rarely indicated.

Keywords:nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, obesity, transaminases, ultrasound examinations

MAFLD in obese children: shifting paradigm from simple steatosis to fatty liver
linked to metabolic dysfunction 

Crina Fofiu

Gastroenterology Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureş; Internal Medicine Department, County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistrița, Romania

Corresponding author: Crina Fofiu, e-mail: crina.fofiu@umfst.ro

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a spectrum of conditions characterized by the accumulation of fat in liver cells, including simple fatty liver disease, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. The prevalence of NAFLD is strongly linked to obesity. However, defining NAFLD in children is challenging due to the absence of alcohol consumption in this population. In response, a new term – metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) – was proposed in 2020 for adults, with specific criteria for pediatric MAFLD also established. Unlike NAFLD, the criteria of MAFLD do not need to exclude other causes of fat accumulation in the liver, but rather focus on the presence of metabolic abnormalities such as metabolic syndrome, prediabetes/type 2 diabetes, and obesity. This shift in terminology aims to introduce a set of diagnostic criteria that are more inclusive, in order to improve diagnostic accuracy, particularly in children who often have these metabolic issues. MAFLD is now recognized as the most common liver disease in children and adolescents, affecting approximately 7% of this population. Despite its increasing prevalence, understanding and awareness of MAFLD outside of hepatology and gastroenterology remain limited, and the management is far from a one-size-fits-all. Treatment strategies for MAFLD now emphasize addressing metabolic health through lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and management of insulin resistance, rather than solely focusing on liver-related symptoms. Given the complexities surrounding the genetic, epigenetic and noninvasive assessment of MAFLD, as well as its psychosocial impacts and natural history, a personalized approach to management is essential.

Keywords: obesity, fatty liver, metabolic, children, diabetes 

The mechanisms by which endocrine diseases cause obesity

Alina Filip

PhD Student, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Oradea; Endocrinology Ambulatory, County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistrița, Romania

Corresponding author: Alina Filip, e-mail: allyna_filip@yahoo.com

Introduction. Just like in adults, childhood obesity is influenced by environmental factors, genetics, lifestyle and hormonal imbalances. Leptin, referred as the “satiety hormone”, is produced by adipocytes, and it plays a critical role in controlling appetite, energy balance and fat storage. Some individuals – especially those with obesity – may develop leptin resistance, where the brain (through the hypothalamus) doesn’t respond effectively to the hormone, leading to difficulty regulating hunger and body weight. It is well known that hypothyroidism and obesity are closely related, metabolism, appetite, energy consumption and water retention being influenced. Stress induced-hypercortisolism, or Cushing syndrome, can disrupt the body’s normal metabolic processes, making it more challenging to maintain or lose weight. Elevated levels of cortisol increase adipose tissue and reduce the muscle mass that cortisol uses as a source of energy for the body. This can slow down the rate at which the body burns calories, contributing to weight gain over time. Growth hormone plays an important role in regulating energy balance by influencing how the body uses glucose and fat for energy. When the body becomes resistant to insulin, it may lead to higher levels of insulin in the blood, which can promote fat storage and contribute to weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area, often leading to an increase in visceral fat. Conclusions. The key to weight maintenance remains a healthy lifestyle, nutrition and exercise. Knowing in detail the mechanisms of obesity has allowed the development of more and more efficient therapies.

Keywords: childhood obesity, leptin, hypothyroidism

Childhood obesity – long-term consequences

Laura-Bogdana Nat

County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistriţa, Romania

Corresponding author: Laura-Bogdana Nat, e-mail: lapos_laura@yahoo.com

Childhood obesity is a global health problem, and studies show that 50-70% of obese children will continue to suffer from obesity into adulthood, with multiple serious long-term complications such as reduced quality of life and low life expectancy. At the same time, it has a significant impact on the healthcare system. The impact of obesity on health is multisystemic, affecting all organs and systems, with the onset of multiple noncommunicable chronic diseases that influence both the quality of life and the healthcare system. Therefore, there is a need for trained and sufficiently numerous care personnel to meet the needs of obese patients, who are generally highly dependent. Hospitals must be equipped with special equipment such as oversized beds, mobilization lifts, CT scanners and transport systems capable of supporting high weights. The high costs resulting from repeated hospitalizations, treatment, investigations and medical devices adapted to their needs will represent a burden on the economy of healthcare systems. In conclusion, it is essential to implement prevention measures through education, the promotion of healthy eating and physical activity to reduce this impact on health and the healthcare system.

Keywords: obesity, multisystemic, hospital, equipment, education, healthy eating

The complications of obesity on the cardiovascular system in pediatrics

Alina-Costina Luca

“Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași; Pediatric Cardiology Department, “Sf. Maria” Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Iași, Romania

Corresponding author: Alina-Costina Luca, e-mail: acluca@yahoo.com

In recent years, multiple studies have confirmed the correlation between obesity and the increased risk of developing and worsening cardiovascular conditions, which are currently so common, that they are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. The effects of obesity on the cardiovascular system are numerous, with unfavorable repercussions for the patient in the long term. The plasma lipid profile of the obese child is an indicator of the risk for adult cardiovascular diseases. Almost all children in North America over the age of 3 years old exhibit varying degrees of fatty streaks in the aorta, which is an early stage in the development of atherosclerotic plaque, according to studies. Approximately 40% of obese children exhibit lipid stripes and 8% have fibrous plaques; additionally, overweight is a significant cause for the onset of essential hypertension. The changes in the heart, visible in the echocardiography, should not be neglected at all; thus, an increase in the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) is observed in relation to the age and sex of the obese child; enlargement of the ventricular cavity >45 mm due to thickening of the left ventricular wall; thickness of the left ventricular wall >13 mm. Today’s generations of obese children may suffer from cardiovascular complications at much younger ages compared to previous generations, despite the existence in the pharmaceutical market of much more potent antihypertensive and antidyslipidemic medications, therefore preventing pediatric obesity is the key to a balanced future.

Keywords: cardiovascular risk, obesity, pediatric, HTA, echocardiography

Obesity – a risk factor for the unfavorable progression of viral infections

Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei^1,2, Alina-Costina Luca^3,4

1. Pediatric Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

2. County Clinical Emergency Hospital Bistrița, Romania

3. “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania

4. Pediatric Cardiology Department, “Sf. Maria” Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, Iași, Romania

Corresponding author: Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei, e-mail: heidrun.adumitrăchioaiei@umfst.ro

Obesity is not just a visible change in body composition, but it comes with multiple internal changes, among which systemic chronic inflammation is particularly important and must not be overlooked. It is well known that, in the presence of chronic systemic inflammation, the body is more prone to illness and severe infections. The link between obesity and viral infections has long been studied, but with the emergence of the H1N1 pandemic flu and, later, the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers were able to highlight the amplified impact of excess adipose tissue in the development of moderate to severe forms of these viral infections, in a significantly higher percentage compared to individuals with normal weight. Thus, changes were observed across all bodily systems and organs, which contribute both independently and collectively to the severity of viral infections. Insulin resistance, which develops in the context of obesity, is one of the key factors in the appearance of more severe forms of viral disease compared to people of normal weight, according to Zhang et al. A survey conducted in Israel between 16 February 2020 and 20 December 2021, involving a total of 444,868 records, confirms the high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among overweight children, and proposes prioritizing them in the vaccination process to prevent severe infection. In conclusion, when faced with a pediatric patient who is overweight or obese and has a viral infection, both general practitioners and pediatricians should pay closer attention to the evolution of the case. Furthermore, extensive studies are needed on the interaction between viral infection and excess adipose tissue, which may eventually lead to different clinical management protocols for this category of patients.

Keywords: obesity, viral infections, different clinical management protocols, severity

Pediatric obesity and the role of psychoemotional counseling

Maria Pașca

“George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

Corresponding author: Maria Pașca, e-mail: mdpasca@yahoo.com

Nowadays, childhood obesity is considered a major issue that, from a psychological standpoint, is of particular interest in maintaining health through the lens of the mind-body-soul triad. In this context, based on various psychosocial frustrations such as school failure, family conflicts, emotional deprivation, behavioral and personality disorders, the child may turn food into either an ally or an enemy. Furthermore, for children approaching puberty and adolescence, food can become a form of refuge (“I eat, I stuff myself because I’m upset, nobody loves me, no one sees me, I don’t care how I look”) or a form of protest (“I don’t eat, or I eat because they’re fighting and don’t see me, they got divorced and don’t care, I want to disappear, I want to die”), both rooted in psychoemotional factors. A personalized psychoemotional counseling program for the obese child should begin with the fundamental question: “Do I eat to live, or do I live to eat?” – a path that leads to both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation to become the best version of oneself. Success can only be achieved through a multidisciplinary team consisting of a physician, nutritionist and psychologist. Although the therapeutic management of a child with weight problems is challenging, it is achievable when there is genuine willingness. Prevention is the key: with awareness, patience and perseverance, the child will stop eating excessively and poorly, opting instead for quality over quantity. Involving the child directly in the preparation of their daily meals and in respecting meal and snack times will help strengthen self-esteem, self-acceptance, trust and self-image – thus becoming part of a healthy self-projection.

Keywords: obesity, child, team, intervention, psychonutrition

The benefits and importance of physical activity in combating childhood obesity

Dan-Alexandru Szabo

Department M2, Faculty of Medicine, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureş, Romania

Corresponding author: Dan-Alexandru Szabo; e-mail: dan-alexandru.szabo@umfst.ro

Obesity is recognized as the most prevalent health issue in contemporary civilizations; it is now a problem that is progressively rising in frequency in both developed and developing nations. Physical inactivity and sedentary habits play a key role in the development of childhood obesity. Physical activity and exercise have been proposed as effective therapies for preventing obesity and improving obesity-related risk factors among children and adolescents. This study aimed to assess the level of physical activity in the ontogenetic stage of children and to analyze the potential determinants of the occurrence of obesity. All the study results will be presented at the first edition of Pediatric Obesity, A Global Health Issue Conference, on 4-5 March 2025, in Bistrița. Childhood obesity is a complex condition that affects both physical and mental health. To combat the epidemic, interdisciplinary, family-focused and community-based interventions appear to be critical for childhood obesity prevention. The European Childhood Obesity Group and the European Institute of Pediatrics prompt healthcare suppliers, instructors, psychologists and teachers to advance physical movement for all children, from earliest stages to youth. The obesity pandemic requires prompt intervention. Understanding that a balanced lifestyle is key to maintaining a healthy weight is vital. Moderate and intense physical effort along with reducing the inactive time are components of this balanced lifestyle.

Keywords: physical activity, combating, childhood obesity, obesity treatment, physical exercise

Artificial intelligence in preventing and combating pediatric obesity: innovative solutions for children’s health in the digital age

Oana-Mădălina Suciu

Programmer, Master of Artificial Intelligence, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș, Romania

Corresponding author: Oana-Mădălina Suciu, e-mail: oanamadalinasuciu@gmail.com

Pediatric obesity represents a global challenge with a profound impact on children’s health and development. This presentation aims to highlight how artificial intelligence (AI) merges traditional medical knowledge with cutting-edge technology to identify, prevent and effectively address obesity at an early age. The first step involves understanding the risk factors – from genetic predispositions and dietary habits to socioeconomic and psychological influences. Next, the advantages of AI in screening and diagnostics are underscored: machine learning algorithms can predict the onset of obesity with impressive accuracy, enabling timely and personalized interventions. Examples such as Kurbo, Fooducate or Lark demonstrate how AI-powered digital platforms can monitor daily behaviors, providing constant feedback and turning the path toward a healthy weight into an engaging, motivating experience. Moreover, smart gadgets like fitness watches allow children and parents to track essential data on sleep, steps and heart rate, becoming formidable allies against a sedentary lifestyle. In Romania, a pilot study confirmed that using AI-based applications and telemedicine can lead to significant reductions in children’s Body Mass Index, emphasizing these solutions’ local applicability. The presentation also addresses possible challenges: data protection, unequal access to technology, and the need for collaboration among doctors, engineers, nutritionists and psychologists. It thus highlights that AI does not replace human involvement but rather amplifies it, providing the opportunity to build an ecosystem in which families, schools and communities can sustainably promote a balanced lifestyle for younger generations.

Keywords: pediatric obesity, artificial intelligence, prevention, nutrition, telemedicine, smart gadgets, gamification, multidisciplinary collaboration

The role of general practitioners in family-based treatment for childhood obesity

Ionela Scridonesi

Family medicine resident, “Niculae Stăncioiu” Heart Institute, Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Corresponding author: Ionela Scridonesi, e-mail: ionela_scridonesi@yahoo.com

Pediatric obesity is a growing global health concern, associated with metabolic, cardiovascular and psychosocial complications. The family doctor, as a key figure in primary care, plays a crucial role in prevention, early detection and management. This presentation highlights the importance of the family doctor’s involvement in preventing and treating childhood obesity through education, monitoring and early intervention. General practitioners (GPs) have a unique opportunity to intervene early in childhood obesity. Their roles include:

1. Primary prevention – educating families about healthy eating, physical activity, sleep hygiene and screen time. Discussions should be tailored to the child’s age and risk factors, integrating behavior change techniques.

2. Screening and early diagnosis – regular measurement of BMI and waist-to-height ratio allows the early identification of at-risk children. Family history and lifestyle assessments can further refine risk stratification.

3. Intervention strategies – addressing multiple levels of influence

• Family-based changes: encouraging healthier food choices, reducing sugar-sweetened beverages, and promoting structured mealtimes.
• Behavioral adjustments: limiting screen time, ensuring quality sleep, and fostering active play.
• Physical activity: recommending at least 60 minutes of daily movement, integrating fun activities suitable for the child’s interests.
• Motivational interviewing: helping families set realistic goals and improve self-management skills.

4. Continuous monitoring – establishing long-term relationships with families, ensuring follow-up visits, and adapting interventions to maintain engagement and motivation.

General practitioners are essential in addressing childhood obesity, offering both medical expertise and ongoing support. Their trusted role enables early intervention, guiding families toward sustainable lifestyle changes. Obesity is a global health problem. The multidisciplinary team is an important pillar in the prevention and treatment of obesity, and the family doctor plays an essential role in primary and secondary prevention, as well as in the therapeutic management of patients with excess weight.

Keywords: obesity, health problem, family doctor, role, primary and secondary prevention

The influence of peer groups on the onset of obesity in adolescents

Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei

Pediatric Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu-Mureș; County Emergency Clinical Hospital Bistriţa, Romania

Corresponding author: Heidrun Adumitrăchioaiei, e-mail: heidrun.adumitrăchioaiei@umfst.ro

Adolescence represents a bridge to adult life, accompanied by numerous challenges, especially for the adolescents themselves. The multiple physical and psychological changes occurring during this period are felt by the entire family and mark a pivotal moment that will inevitably leave its imprint on the future young adult’s lifestyle. Specialized studies highlight peer influence as a potential risk factor for unhealthy dietary choices. The influence of peer groups and unfiltered information from the online environment are significant factors in shaping eating habits during adolescence – a time when the connection with the family often undergoes changes due to generational differences, and the adolescents’ desire to be accepted by peers outweighs their willingness to maintain the family’s dietary norms. A real issue affecting nutrition during this stage is the presence of school campus stores, which offer very few healthy choices. Adolescents, driven by a need for social belonging, tend to reject healthier options in favor of junk food. Therefore, a viable preventive measure could be the elimination of such stores and their replacement with school cafeterias, where, with the support of specialists, menus can be tailored to meet adolescents’ macro- and micronutrient needs.

Keywords: adolescents, obesogenic environment, obesity, prevention