Foreword Obesity has become the malnutrition of our time it is the result of food insecurity and poverty in addition to excess calories and inactivity. Children who are obese are at risk for a lifetime of health, educational, and social problems. Our understanding of the science behind obesity, from gene tics to epigenetics to dietary interventions, is expanding daily. The com- prehensive information in Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence, written by a world-class group of academicians from leading U.S. institutions, high- lights obesity as a critical health diagnosis globally. This edition also pro- vides evidence-informed treatment strategies, including policy solutions that address social determinants of health. Every child deserves to grow in a healthy, supportive environment the prevention and treatment of childhood and adolescent obesity are key to the health of our future. The authors provide a compelling overview that should be of interest to every one concerned about obesity, its origins, and its consequences, and as well as what can be done to mitigate its effects on our children. Colleen Kraft, MD, MBA, FAAP