Childhood Overweight: Early Detection of Risk Factors

Childhood overweight is a public health crisis that warrants intensified primary prevention efforts. Currently, prevention efforts made during the second year fall short of efficacy because of the late initiation of intervention. A review of the literature indicates that primary prevention should begin during preconception counseling and continue through infancy and childhood. The review of risk factors will alert the practitioner to incorporate this surveillance at every acute and well-child visit.