ABSTRACTObesity, defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat, has become a worldwide healthconcern. Globally, about 170 million children (aged < 18 years) wereestimated to be overweight and, in some countries, the number of overweightchildren has tripled since 1980. Excess weight in childhood raises therisk of excess weight into adulthood and, with it, the risk of earlier onset ofobesity-related chronic diseases. Overweight and obesity, as well as theirrelated complications, are largely...
