The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and presumed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in obese children at Tygerberg Hospital

[摘要] ENGLISH SUMMARY: Introduction: The prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents is increasing worldwide, including in low and middle income countries (LMIC). Childhood obesity is also associated with conditions like metabolic syndrome (MS) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).This study looks at the prevalence of these complications and the factors that predict for them in obese children. Finally the effectiveness of the interventions implemented is assessed.Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study with cross-sectional elements performed at Tygerberg Children's Hospital. Obese and morbidly obese children (under 18years) attending the endocrinology clinic over a 7year period (2008 to 2014) were included in the study. Demographic data, severity of obesity and data on possible predictive factors for MS and NAFLD were collected.Results: Obese (n=18) and morbidly obese (n=65) children were studied. MS occurred in 45.5 % of the study population. MS was significantly more common in the morbidly obese group (p = <0.001). Possible NAFLD occurred in 63% with no significant difference in incidence between obese and morbidly obese children. No factors predicted the presence of MS or NAFLD in this group of obese children. Factors predicting a decrease in BMI SDS were: BMI at presentation (p = 0.01), duration of follow-up (p = 0.01) and age at presentation (p = 0.08).Conclusion: MS and NAFLD are as prevalent in obese children seen at Tygerberg Children's Hospital as demonstrated internationally. The follow-up BMI findings suggest that in order to successfully manage childhood obesity in our setting, long-term follow up and early intervention is required. Weight loss after dietary and lifestyle advice occurs more often in patients with a higher BMI.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University