Which tests should be considered for a child diagnosed with obesity?

In the context of a child diagnosed with obesity, it is important to assess metabolic and cardiovascular health, as obesity significantly increases the risk of conditions such as dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes. A lipid panel is essential as it helps in evaluating the levels of lipids in the blood, which can indicate an increased risk for cardiovascular disease due to obesity. Moreover, measuring fasting glucose is critical for checking glucose metabolism and screening for insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, conditions that are prevalent among obese children.

Performing these assessments enables healthcare providers to identify and manage obesity-related complications early, guiding the development of appropriate treatment and lifestyle interventions. Thus, the combination of a lipid panel and fasting glucose is a prudent choice in evaluating the health implications associated with childhood obesity.