To the Editor: Elementary and middle school students are found to be increasing in height, but their weight is also increasing, and the prevalence of obesity increases in both elementary and middle school students. In elementary schools, the prevalence of obesity continues to increase: 13% of males and 8.8% of females in 2016, 16.6% of males and 10.6% of females in 2019, and 22.6% of males and 14.6% of females in 2021 reported a steady increase. In middle schools, 15.2% of males and 10.6% of females in 2016, 17.2% of males and 12.5% of females in 2019, and 24.2% of males and 13.7% of females in 2021 reported an increase [1]. Reports from China, Europe, and the United States indicate that weight gain rates among children and adolescents have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels, a clear result of decreased physical activity, increased screen time, and dietary changes. Systematic, supportive, lifelong care for obese children and adolescents and their families is essential [2].

In Korea, the public health center mobile healthcare project has been implemented since 2016 by preparing a foundation for health-related services utilizing ICT technology and big data and establishing a health management service operation system. In 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Korea Health Promotion Institute began providing mobile-based healthcare services using ICT to overcome the limitations of face-to-face healthcare services.

Health risk behaviors and physical activity habits during adolescence have important implications for adulthood and beyond [3]. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate how wearable devices and future health apps for adolescents can be utilized in a time- and space-free environment to influence adolescents’ health. In addition, the models and services of ICT-based non-face-to-face mobile healthcare platforms should be upgraded and made available to everyone for proper healthcare habits and health prevention among adolescents.