Impact of ADHD on Obesity Treatment Outcomes in Adolescents Receiving Multidisciplinary Care: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study

Pediatr Obes. 2026 Aug;21(8):e70145. doi: 10.1111/ijpo.70145.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is frequent among adolescents with obesity and may influence treatment outcomes. This study aimed to explore differences in treatment outcomes and predictors of weight-loss success between adolescents with and without ADHD, followed at a tertiary Adolescent Obesity Clinic.

METHODS: This retrospective longitudinal study included 269 adolescents (12-17 years) followed for 16.8 (IQR: 5.3) months, of whom 53 had ADHD (19.7%). Obesity-related and behavioural data were collected and analysed using generalised estimating equations (for longitudinal changes) and logistic regression models (to identify predictors of weight-loss success, i.e., a decrease in BMI z-score ≥ 0.25).

RESULTS: Weight loss success was achieved in 34.9% of the sample, with no significant differences between those with and without ADHD. Among adolescents with ADHD, psychopathology was negatively associated with weight loss success (OR = 0.25), while increases in total physical activity were positively associated (OR = 1.01). In those without ADHD, impulsive eating reduced the likelihood of weight loss (OR = 0.33), whereas improved eating behaviour increased it (OR = 2.92).

CONCLUSION: Although adolescents with and without ADHD may exhibit similar treatment outcomes, predictors of weight loss success differed, highlighting the importance of tailoring obesity programs according to behavioural and clinical profiles in order to improve obesity treatment among adolescents.

PMID:42629328 | DOI:10.1111/ijpo.70145