Canada Introduces New Pediatric Obesity Guidelines with Medications and Surgery Options

The updated recommendations emphasize holistic care, including GLP-1 drugs and bariatric surgery, while addressing accessibility challenges.

Canada's first pediatric obesity guidelines in nearly 20 years recommend GLP-1 receptor agonists for adolescents aged 12 and up and bariatric surgery for those aged 13 and older under specific conditions.
The guidelines represent a shift from conservative approaches to proactive, multi-component care focused on mental health, quality of life, and physical health improvements.
Experts highlight the promise of GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide for weight loss, despite limited clinical trial data on long-term effects in adolescents.
Bariatric surgeries, such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass, are suggested as options when combined with behavioral and psychological support.
Access to treatment remains a significant challenge, with limited multidisciplinary clinics, surgical centers, and high costs for medications creating barriers for many families.