Child Obesity Clinics Seeing BMIs Over 50

Child Obesity Clinics Seeing BMIs Over 50

Children from Deprived Areas and with Additional Needs Overrepresented in NHS Obesity Clinics, Study Finds.

A striking new study has revealed that a disproportionate number of children referred to NHS specialist weight clinics in England come from the most deprived communities, with many also living with neurodivergence or other significant health conditions.

Researchers from Leeds Beckett, Sheffield Hallam, Leeds, and Bristol universities analysed data from 32 NHS excess weight clinics and found that over 40% of child patients lived in England’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods. The findings were presented at the European Congress on Obesity.

Since the clinics launched in 2021, nearly 4,800 children and teenagers aged 2 to 17 have been referred, many flagged by GPs or hospital doctors. Some had a body mass index (BMI) over 50, and around 40 were classified as severely obese.

Beyond addressing diet, these specialist services offer mental health support and treatment for related health issues. They are staffed by multi-disciplinary teams, including paediatricians, psychologists, and dietitians.

Data from more than 3,000 children highlighted significant underlying challenges:

>>> 24% were autistic

>>> 23% had a learning disability

>>> 30% had liver disease

>>> A large proportion had other health complications

Professor Simon Kenny, NHS England’s national clinical director, said he was “shocked” by the extent of the difficulties these children face.

“When I met some of these families, I became aware of the fact that this is an invisible problem – many of these children rarely leave the house,” he said. “That means they’re not in school, they’re not seeing friends – and it’s damaging their future.”

Prof Kenny emphasised the severe impact excess weight can have across all body systems and warned of long-term consequences, including disrupted education and reduced life opportunities.

“The NHS won’t just sit by and let children and young people become ill adults,” he added.