Current Trends in Childhood Obesity Research

Childhood obesity is a global health issue. To identify research trends and gaps of childhood obesity research, we reviewed MEDLINE publications from January 2011 to May 2012 and qualitatively analyzed the major domains and themes of research focus. Major domains are: measurements, obesity correlates, prevention interventions, treatment interventions, and policy issues. Key advances and innovations are highlighted within each domain. Emerging areas include the advancement of measurement methodologies that simultaneously capture individual and contextual information across time, analysis of policy problems, and the development of multilevel, community interventions. However, few effective and sustainable interventions are exemplified; some strategies are promising. Recommendations for future research includes the adoption of a systems approach that integrates individual, environmental, and policy change, the scale up and diffusion of innovations, studies of intended and unintended policy impacts, and the design and testing of effective social marketing strategies.