Healthier Parents Key to Reducing Obesity in Future Generations

14 Oct 2016 --- New research has shown that the key to preventing obesity in future generations is to ensure parents are healthier before they conceive. Published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, the new research suggests that the time before couples conceive is key in preventing the transmission of obesity risk from one generation to the next.

The new series of studies presents a wealth of evidence suggesting that the risk of obesity and its associated conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers, could impact developing babies.

In turn, when the child becomes a young adult they may pass the risk of obesity on to their children, a cycle that the researchers believe is not adequately appreciated.

The studies highlight, that while appearing outwardly healthy, many young adults are at risk of obesity and chronic disease and more likely to pass this risk to their children.

Furthermore, the research argues that, as many pregnancies are unplanned, the special needs of adolescents and young people at this important time are not sufficiently recognized. In fact, far from helping them to prepare and plan for pregnancy and parenthood, many public health programs assume that their needs are similar to the general population and require no special measures or provisions.

In a comment piece accompanying the research papers, Professor Mark Hanson of the University of Southampton, says an entirely new approach is needed that engages parents-to-be and encourages them to be part of the solution.

“The approach needed is both top-down and bottom-up, but even more importantly requires something in between which young people can help to create themselves,” Professor Hanson notes.

“If at present many young people do not seem to care about their health or view it as a low priority, perhaps they have not been given clear information about what they can do to optimize their health for themselves and their children.”

“All societies owe their adolescents the chance to make their future healthier. Additionally, the political leaders who have committed to the new Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health must give adolescent health priority in national health strategies, plans, and budgets. Only these actions will enable the transformation required.”

The researchers argue that there is a need for a broader social movement that generates bottom-up mobilization of communities and individuals, to create a demand for such services and opportunities.

Engaging future parents in leading healthier lives will not only promote their health later, but will give their children a healthier start to life.