Childhood Obesity: The Role of Sleep, Physical Activity, and Lifestyle Interventions

Abstract

Childhood obesity has become one of the most pressing global health challenges, driven by a complex interaction of behavioral, biological, and environmental influences. While traditional models emphasize diet and energy imbalance, recent evidence highlights the significance of sleep timing, sedentary lifestyles, and family and school environments. This review synthesizes findings from observational research, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and policy guidelines to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Key themes include the role of circadian misalignment in obesity risk, the protective effects of physical activity, the independent risks of prolonged sedentary behavior, and the cognitive and academic benefits of school-based programs. Multicomponent interventions that integrate nutrition, physical activity, behavioral counseling, and parental involvement show sustained benefits in reducing body mass index and improving metabolic health. Despite encouraging short-term outcomes, long-term effectiveness remains constrained by adherence challenges, cultural variability, and limited policy enforcement. Addressing childhood obesity requires a multidisciplinary and multilevel approach involving families, schools, healthcare systems, and policymakers. Such integrated strategies not only reduce obesity risk but also improve cognitive performance, psychosocial health, and lifelong well-being.