Screening for Obesity in Children and Adolescents: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement

Abstract

DESCRIPTION: Update of the 2005 US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) statement about screening for overweight in children and adolescents. METHODS: The USPSTF examined the evidence for the effectiveness of interventions that are primary care feasible or referable. It also examined the evidence for the magnitude of potential harms of treatment in children and adolescents. RECOMMENDATION. The USPSTF recommends that clinicians screen children aged 6 years and older for obesity and offer them or refer them to intensive counseling and behavioral interventions to promote improvements in weight status (grade B recommendation).