ABSTRACT Obesity, defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat, has become a worldwide health concern. Globally, about 170 million children (aged < 18 years) were estimated to be overweight and, in some countries, the number of overweight children has tripled since 1980. Excess weight in childhood raises the risk of excess weight into adulthood and, with it, the risk of earlier onset of obesity-related chronic diseases. Overweight and obesity, as well as their related complications, are...
