1 in 5 Children Now Living With Obesity: New Research From Clarity Pediatrics, IDEO and IDEO.org Delivers a Blueprint for Transforming Pediatric Obesity Care

Report reveals nine critical barriers to care and actionable solutions to address America’s fastest-growing pediatric chronic condition impacting over 14 million US children

Solutions roadmap targets healthcare disparities where 40% of Latino youth face weight challenges and Medicaid children experience obesity at more than double the rate of privately insured peers

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — March 4, 2025 — Clarity Pediatrics, the company transforming the pediatric specialty care journey with an innovative new care model, today released Reimagining Childhood Obesity Care, a comprehensive report examining the systemic challenges faced when diagnosing and treating childhood obesity, particularly for Medicaid families. Conducted in collaboration with IDEO and IDEO.org, with support from Rise Together Ventures, the report builds upon the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) landmark 2023 obesity treatment guidelines, providing a practical playbook for their successful implementation.

Obesity is now the fastest-growing pediatric chronic condition in the U.S., affecting one in five children. There are particularly severe disparities among vulnerable populations: 40% of Latino youth are either overweight or obese, and 26% of children using Medicaid experience childhood obesity, compared to just 11% using private insurance.

“As a pediatrician, I’ve witnessed our healthcare system’s limitations firsthand,” said Dr. Alesandro Larrazabal, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer at Clarity Pediatrics. “With pediatricians spending, on average, only 17 minutes with a child per visit, and 40% of school-aged children managing at least one chronic condition, we must reimagine care delivery. Our mission at Clarity Pediatrics is to equip providers and families with the tools to transform the complex chronic care journey into a clear path forward. We believe this report will serve as a trusted resource for all families and caregivers navigating childhood obesity.”

Based on extensive interviews with families, providers, and community organizations, the report identifies nine critical barriers to effective care. These findings illuminate both challenges and opportunities for innovation. Highlights include:

• Obesity is both a clinical condition and a cultural force — Families often struggle with stigma, making open discussions difficult.
• The annual pediatrician visit is a turning point — This visit often confirms obesity, but families are left with generic advice rather than a clear, actionable plan.
• The hidden costs of lifestyle changes are passed onto families — From food deserts to the high cost of healthy groceries, many families cannot afford the time or money needed to implement recommended changes.
• Families need support beyond weight-loss goals — Many care plans focus solely on BMI, ignoring broader health indicators like metabolic health and mental well-being.
• Opportunities exist to build awareness, confidence, and capacity — The report outlines strategies for improving early detection, providing continuous support beyond doctor visits, and integrating mental health resources into obesity care.

“Millions of children with chronic conditions like obesity, ADHD, and asthma face mounting barriers to specialized care, creating ripple effects throughout families, schools, and communities. Through this research, we’re proud to not only shine a light on these challenges but offer a plan of action,” said Christina LaMontagne, co-founder and CEO of Clarity Pediatrics. “This research initiative is emblematic of our larger purpose at Clarity Pediatrics, to reimagine pediatric specialty care with evidence-based solutions that improve access and outcomes for all children with chronic conditions.”

Download the full Reimagining Childhood Obesity Care report at research.claritypediatrics.com. To learn more about Clarity Pediatrics, visit claritypediatrics.com.