Childhood obesity in Hong Kong: A developmental perspective and review, 1986-2005

Overweight and obesity is related to many problematic health conditions including gallbladder disease, glucose intolerance, non-insulin-dependent diabetes, cardiovascular disease risk factors, and cancer. It is clear that the childhood obesity rate in Hong Kong has increased rapidly in the last two decades. A critical review of the development of childhood obesity in Hong Kong may allow health professionals to gain and provide practical guidance and scientific solutions for prevention and intervention. In this study, we elucidate and review the evidence for childhood obesity to provide insight and directions for future research. The specific objectives were to: (1) assess the current state of knowledge in the field of childhood obesity research by reviewing local studies published between 1986 and 2005; (2) integrate the findings in relation to childhood obesity risk factors observed in Hong Kong; and (3) recommend aspects of future study to benefit research on obesity in Hong Kong Chinese children. Three stages of research development on childhood obesity are identified and discussed, namely: the pilot stage; the consolidation stage; and the stage of medical and exercise sciences. Finally, visions and recommendations are discussed regarding the future development of Hong Kong childhood obesity.