A OBESIDADE INFANTIL COMO QUESTÃO DE SAÚDE PÚBLICA

In recent decades, Brazil has experienced a significant increase in cases of childhood obesity, which has become a chronic condition that goes beyond the clinical sphere and demands effective public health responses. The complexity of this phenomenon is related to factors ranging from inadequate eating habits to socioeconomic inequalities and structural issues that hinder the healthy development of children. Given this reality, this study aimed to analyze childhood obesity as a public health problem, seeking to understand its causes, impacts, and coping strategies in light of current national policies and guidelines. To achieve this goal, a bibliographic research was conducted based on official documents, scientific articles, and recent publications that address the topic from a critical and contextualized perspective. The results show that, although the country has several public policies aimed at preventing childhood obesity, such as the School Health Program (PSE), the Breastfeeding and Feeding Brazil Strategy, and the actions for Promoting Healthy Eating (PAAS), the effectiveness of these initiatives depends on their coordination with other sectors, such as education, social assistance, and urban planning. The role of Primary Health Care (APS) and community health agents is also strategic in this process, especially when integrated with educational and community actions. It is concluded that tackling childhood obesity requires a continuous and intersectoral approach focused on the child and their family and social context. Beyond isolated measures, it is essential to ensure environments that foster healthy habits, promoting equity, inclusion, and well-being from early childhood.