Progression of comorbidities in youth with overweight or obesity during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background Childhood obesity rates have continued to increase with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, data are limited on the impact of increasing obesity on associated comorbidities. Methods We evaluated the progression of overweight- or obesity-associated comorbidities by investigating change in laboratory results pre–COVID-19 pandemic and post–COVID-19 pandemic onset in youth with overweight or obesity. We defined progression of comorbidities based on increase in category rather than absolute change in value. Results HbA1c progression was seen in 19%, and LDL cholesterol progression was seen in 26%, as defined by categories. HbA1c progression and LDL cholesterol progression were significantly correlated. HbA1c and LDL cholesterol progression were significantly associated with older age and Hispanics, respectively. Conclusion The results indicate youths with overweight or obesity have experienced progression of comorbidities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study emphasizes the importance of early detection of comorbidities among a high-risk pediatric population.