Overview

• The NIH-supported ECHO Program tracked BMI trajectories in over 9,400 U.S. children from infancy to age nine, identifying typical and atypical growth patterns.
• About 10.6% of children followed an atypical BMI trajectory, marked by a plateau between ages 1 and 3.5 and accelerated weight gain thereafter, leading to obesity risk.
• Children on the atypical trajectory reached BMI values above the 99th percentile by age nine, signaling significant health risks.
• Key early-life factors influencing these trajectories include high birthweight, maternal smoking, elevated pre-pregnancy BMI, and excessive gestational weight gain.
• The findings emphasize age 3.5 as a pivotal point for pediatric monitoring and maternal health interventions to mitigate long-term obesity risks.