Early growth patterns and long-term obesity risk

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review is an update on recent findings regarding early growth patterns and later obesity. These data are important because the potential programming of obesity in early life provides hope for new prevention strategies targeting early growth for long-term benefits.

Recent findings: Recent findings regarding the association of childhood or adulthood obesity with fetal growth, gestational weight gain, maternal diabetes, or infancy weight gain are reviewed. Some related outcomes and potential mechanisms are also described. Most studies remain observational and confirm previous findings, but some intervention studies have begun to appear in the recent literature and support some, but not other, observed associations.

Summary: Past and recent findings confirm the association of early growth patterns with obesity. However, causality must be demonstrated and safety must be established before translating these findings into public health recommendations.