GLP-1s OK in certain cases for kids living with obesity, new global guidance says | CBC News
The World Health Organization has issued its first international guidance on childhood obesity. It says medication, surgery and weight-loss devices are not recommended for children aged nine and younger.
For older children and teens, the guidance recognizes GLP-1 medicines as a possible treatment, with careful consideration. WHO says support for healthy eating, physical activity and lasting behaviour changes should remain central to care.
The scale of the issue is significant: about 170 million people aged five to 19 had obesity worldwide in 2024, the WHO says. The rate in this age group rose from two per cent in 1990 to eight per cent.
Pediatric endocrinologist Marina Ybarra of London, Ont., welcomed the cautious inclusion of medication. Canadian physicians recommend GLP-1 treatment for obesity only after age 12, compared with the WHO’s age threshold, and do not require lifestyle changes to be tried first.
The medicines mimic a hormone involved in appetite, digestion and blood sugar regulation. The guidance calls for shared decisions between families and health-care providers when considering available treatments.
Key points
- WHO advises against medication, surgery or weight-loss devices for children aged nine and younger.
- GLP-1 drugs may be considered for some older children and teens, with caution.
- Canadian physicians recommend GLP-1s for obesity only after age 12.