Linking pediatric obesity to youth-onset type 2 diabetes: integrated longitudinal and cross-sectional evidence from population-based studies worldwide

Key messagePediatric obesity and youth-onset type 2 diabetes have increased simultaneously across 6 continents over the last 25 years.Approximately 75% of affected youths are obese at diagnosis, beta-cell declines occur rapidly, and microvascular complications occur early.Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and bariatric surgery achieve meaningful weight loss and glycemic improvement; however, the primary prevention of childhood obesity remains the most powerful strategy for arresting this epidemic.