A growing body of research is shedding light on a lesser-known risk in childhood obesity, fat accumulation in the pancreas. A new study presented at the European Congress on Obesity suggests that higher pancreatic fat levels in children and adolescents are linked to increased cardiometabolic risks, raising fresh concerns for early prevention.

Researchers found that young people with higher pancreatic fat were more likely to have elevated body mass index, increased abdominal and liver fat, higher diastolic blood pressure and signs of insulin resistance. These factors are key contributors to conditions such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

The study analysed 283 individuals aged between 7 and 19 years using a safe, non-invasive imaging technique known as magnetic resonance spectroscopy. This approach allowed scientists to accurately measure fat levels in the pancreas and assess their relationship with broader health indicators.

Experts say the findings highlight the importance of early detection. Measuring pancreatic fat could help identify children most at risk, enabling timely intervention and targeted obesity management. However, researchers caution that further studies are needed to confirm whether reducing pancreatic fat directly improves health outcomes.