On February 16th, 2024, Drs. Kanner, Ramakrishna, and Parra Villasmil jointly delivered Pediatric Grand Rounds. Their talk was entitled “When Overnutrition Becomes an Endocrine Problem…Food for Thought“. They focused on the endocrine complications that can occur as a consequence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. Additionally, they touched on the practicalities of providing care to obese youth.
In the United States, nearly 1 in 5 children and adolescents are obese. In Iowa alone, over 50,000 youth are obese, per 2019 estimates (reference). Due to these high numbers, specialized obesity clinics are not a currently tenable solution. While most obese youth won’t develop endocrine complications, some may experience conditions such as type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, or polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Our Division accept referrals when these endocrine complications arise. Additionally, we welcome referrals for those rare cases where obesity is linked to endocrine conditions such as hypothyroidism or Cushing syndrome. Another reason for referral to endocrinology is when an obese adolescent and their family are prepared for the arduous process of bariatric surgery.
We extend our thanks to Drs. Kanner, Ramakrishna, and Parra Villasmil for sharing their expertise!