Obesity in children, adolescents, and adults remains a global public health concern, with no progress observed in nearly 20 years. The World Health Organization (WHO) is responding to this challenge by developing a practice and science-informed guideline on the integrated management of children aged 0-9 years with obesity, using a primary health care approach. Aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this initiative aims to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all. The upcoming Guideline Development Group meeting, scheduled for June 10-11, 2024, is a crucial step in this process.

The sixth Guideline Development Group meeting aims to provide an update on the guideline development process activities, present and discuss evidence advances on bariatric surgery and weight-loss devices for childhood obesity management, and discuss and draft potential guideline recommendations. The meeting seeks to achieve consensus on recommendation wording, strength, and direction based on evidence-to-decision frameworks.

WHO recognizes primary health care as a cornerstone for achieving universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals. The International Classification of Diseases 11 defines obesity as a chronic disease with multifactorial causes. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health allows for comprehensive assessment and intervention design.

The virtual meeting will span two days, each approximately three hours long, on June 10-11, 2024. The agenda includes updates on guideline development activities and discussions on evidence-based interventions.

The WHO Guideline Development Group meeting signifies a concerted effort to address childhood obesity through evidence-based recommendations and a people-centered approach to care. With the collaboration of experts and stakeholders, WHO aims to make significant strides towards combating this pressing global health issue.