What age does the USPSTF recommend screening for obesity in children and adolescents?

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for obesity in children and adolescents starting at the age of 6. This recommendation is based on evidence that early identification and treatment of obesity can lead to improved health outcomes and prevention of obesity-related health risks later in life. By screening at this age, healthcare providers can initiate discussions about healthy lifestyle changes, assess growth patterns, and potentially intervene with appropriate weight management strategies. Screening before this age may not yield as significant results since children’s weight may fluctuate more dramatically during early childhood, making it harder to define obesity consistently. Consequently, focusing on children from the age of 6 helps target an age range where preventive strategies can be more effectively implemented.