When and how do you seek care for childhood obesity?

Children have the right to care for obesity — but navigating the healthcare system can feel unclear. Here, we explain when it is time to seek care, where to turn, and what you can expect from treatment.

When is it time to seek care?

• Iso-BMI ≥ 30 (obesity).
• Iso-BMI 25–30 (overweight) if followed by rapid weight gain or psychosocial impact.
• Signs of complications — snoring, dark skin folds, joint pain.
• BVC or school health services have raised concerns.
• If you feel worried yourself.

Use the iso-BMI calculator for an initial estimate.

Where do you turn?

1. BVC (for children aged 0–5)

Child healthcare services carry out regular checks of growth and development. They are often the first point of contact when overweight is noted and can refer onwards if needed.

2. School health services (school age)

Health visits are carried out in preschool class, year 4 and year 7 or 8. School health services can refer to a health centre or paediatric clinic.

3. Health centre / primary care

Primary care carries out a basic assessment and investigation. They can initiate simpler treatment and refer onwards if needed.

4. Paediatric and adolescent medicine clinic (BUMM)

Specialist clinics available in several regions. Multidisciplinary teams with doctors, dietitians, psychologists and physiotherapists1.

5. Specialised obesity clinics

Available at university hospitals, for children with severe obesity or complicating conditions.

What happens at the first appointment?

• Medical history — family history, lifestyle habits, previous health.
• Measurement of height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure.
• Possible blood tests.
• Assessment of psychosocial situation.
• Plan for follow-up.

How long is the treatment?

Treatment usually lasts for 1–2 years, with frequent follow-up in the beginning that becomes less frequent over time. Group treatment is often combined with individual visits. Digital support is increasingly used to complement clinic visits. Read more about treatment options.

What rights does my child have?

• Care according to need, regardless of where you live.
• Right to an individual plan.
• Right to an interpreter if needed.
• Patientnämnden if something is not working.
• Healthcare guarantee.

What do I do if we do not get help?

• Request a second opinion.
• Contact Patientnämnden in your region.
• Some regions have better-developed childhood obesity care than others — ask what is available.