Health insurance system has been proved to be an effective way to promote the quality of health service in many countries. However, how to control health expenditure under health insurance system remains a problem to be resolved. Some developed countries like UK, Canada and Sweden linked their health technology assessment results with decision making and health insurance management, and made prominent achievements in both expenditure control and quality improvement. China is carrying out its health system reform and running a new health insurance project. Using the experiences of other countries is undoubtedly of great importance in developing and managing our health insurance system.
ObjectiveTo systematically review the current prevalence, key determinants, and prevention strategies of child and adolescent obesity in China. MethodA systematic review of the epidemiological trends, health impacts, risk factors, and intervention strategies for child and adolescent obesity was performed by analyzing recent domestic and international literature and policy documents, supplemented with national surveillance data and developments in clinical practice. ResultsThe prevalence of child and adolescent obesity in China has been rising continuously over the past four decades, with particularly high rates observed among primary school children and boys. Recent trends show a “provincial reversal” and an “urban-rural reversal”. This high-risk environment stems from complex interactions among family, school, and societal factors. China has developed a relatively comprehensive policy framework for obesity prevention and control and is promoting a three-tiered prevention strategy. Clinically, pharmacological and surgical interventions are being gradually adopted. However, challenges remain, including limited health insurance coverage for obesity management. ConclusionsChild and adolescent obesity has become a significant public health issue in China, threatening national health and social development. Future efforts should focus on enhancing intersectoral governance, improving early intervention capabilities, expanding health insurance support, and standardizing clinical practices. A multi-level, multi-pathway integrated prevention and control system is essential for effectively curbing child and adolescent obesity under the healthy China strategy.