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Quality of life in overweight and obese children and adolescents: a literature review

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to present a literature review on quality-of-life (QOL) assessment in overweight or obese children and adolescents in order to identify the most affected dimensions and better understand associated factors.

Methods

The ERIC, FRANCIS, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, and Academic Search Premier databases were searched for articles reporting cross-sectional QOL studies in obese children and adolescents published in English before January 2013. The reference lists of retained articles were also screened.

Results

Among the 34 articles retained for the analysis, only three did not report lower QOL among obese youth. Clinical populations appeared to be more affected than the general population. Several variables were associated with QOL such as self-image, bullying, bodily pain, quality of food intake, physical activity, screen time, parents’ educational level, and weight status.

Conclusions

Identifying variables associated with lower QOL in obese children and adolescents offers new perspectives for prevention and care. Further research is needed to better elucidate these findings. Better understanding QOL is a key element essential for the treatment for childhood and adolescent obesity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University North of France, 59000, Lille, France

    Marie Buttitta, Catalina Iliescu, Amélie Rousseau & Alain Guerrien

  2. UDL3, PSITEC EA 4072, 59653, Villeneuve d’Ascq, France

    Marie Buttitta, Amélie Rousseau & Alain Guerrien

  3. Hospitals of Catholic Institute of Lille, 59000, Lille, France

    Marie Buttitta & Catalina Iliescu

  4. Catholic University of Lille, 59000, Lille, France

    Catalina Iliescu

  5. Clinical Research Center, 59000, Lille, France

    Catalina Iliescu

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  1. Marie Buttitta
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Buttitta, M., Iliescu, C., Rousseau, A. et al. Quality of life in overweight and obese children and adolescents: a literature review. Qual Life Res 23, 1117–1139 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-013-0568-5

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