Children born to mothers with severe obesity have a higher incidence of hospital admissions for infections, particularly in infancy and early childhood, as shown by a UK study analyzing over 9,500 births. The study recorded a 41% increased risk of early admissions, rising to 53% between ages 5 to 15. Respiratory and gastrointestinal infections were predominant. Factors like cesarean delivery and childhood obesity significantly contributed to this association, while breastfeeding did not show a protective effect. The findings highlight the need for early interventions targeting maternal obesity to reduce risks of childhood infections.

Source: BMJ Medicine