At the Pediatrics Department of Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, Tram Anh received treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication, combined with nutritional support. Her body mass index (BMI) was 24.5, 1.5 times higher than the normal threshold for her age, and her breast development was at Tanner B2 stage. Dark patches appeared in the folds of her neck and armpits, a common sign of insulin resistance.

Master, Doctor Do Tien Son, from the Pediatrics Department, ordered an in-depth screening. X-ray results showed that her bone age was equivalent to that of an 8.5-year-old. Endocrine tests recorded borderline LH levels and slightly increased estradiol. Tram Anh also had fatty liver disease and severe insulin resistance, with a blood glucose tolerance test confirming prediabetes. Doctors diagnosed Tram Anh with a high risk of developing early puberty, prediabetes, and metabolic disorders due to excess fat tissue.

Doctor Son reviews Tram Anh's medical records. Photo: Hai Au

Doctor Son explained that these disorders are interconnected, forming a "pathological spiral." Excess fat not only accumulates but also functions as an endocrine organ, increasing estrogen, which can lead to early puberty in children. Excess fat causes fatty liver disease and reduces insulin sensitivity, resulting in insulin resistance and the risk of prediabetes. This condition also stimulates the body to produce more sex hormones, accelerating the puberty process.

Obesity also impairs immunity and affects respiration as fat accumulates in the chest and abdomen, making children more prone to shortness of breath and more severe illness during infections.

Doctors from the Pediatrics - Endocrinology Department developed a personalized treatment plan aimed at controlling respiratory illness, managing weight, and closely monitoring the patient's endocrine indicators.

After 7 days, Tram Anh's health stabilized. She was fever-free, coughed less, no longer experienced shortness of breath, and ate well, leading to her discharge from the hospital. Doctors advised her to adopt lifestyle changes: replacing sugary drinks with water, maintaining regular breakfasts, increasing vegetable intake, and limiting snacks. She was instructed to engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily and reduce screen time. Her follow-up appointment is scheduled for 2.5 months later.

Obese children face an increased risk of chronic diseases early in life, such as dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, and prediabetes. They are also at risk of early puberty, which can reduce adult height due to premature bone fusion, and often experience feelings of inferiority and self-consciousness. Doctor Son recommends that children control their weight early and undergo regular health check-ups.

Trinh Mai