Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Role of the Environment in Pediatric Obesity

This research wants to understand how common chemicals in our environment might be connected to childhood obesity. Around the world, more and more children are dealing with obesity, and scientists think it's not just about diet and exercise, but also about things in our surroundings that affect our bodies. This study will involve children aged 6 to 15, some who have obesity and some who don't. Researchers will collect blood, urine, and hair samples to look for chemicals like those found in plastic products (BPA), waterproof coatings (PFAS), and certain pesticides. The goal is to see if there's a link between these chemicals and how children's bodies handle appetite and fats, helping us learn more about what causes childhood obesity.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Tours

Enrolment target

Start

01 Jun 2026

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2029

Obesity (Disorder)

What is this study about?

This study is called 'Role of the Environment in Pediatric Obesity' and it's looking into why some children develop obesity. We know that childhood obesity is a growing concern, and while diet and exercise are important, scientists are starting to think that other things in our environment might also play a part. This research focuses on links between certain common chemicals and obesity in children.

Our bodies constantly interact with chemicals found in many everyday items. For example, 'PFAS' are a group of chemicals used in things like non-stick pans and waterproof clothing. 'BPA' is another chemical often found in plastic food containers and bottle linings. There are also 'non-persistent pesticides' – chemicals used in farming that can end up in our food. Researchers want to see if children who have obesity also have higher levels of these chemicals in their bodies, or if these chemicals affect how their bodies control hunger and store fat.

By carefully studying children with and without obesity and checking for these chemicals, the hope is to gain a clearer picture of how our environment might influence a child's weight. This improved understanding could eventually lead to better ways to prevent and manage childhood obesity.

Key takeaways

This study explores the link between common environmental chemicals and childhood obesity.
It involves children aged 6 to 15, both with and without obesity.
Participation includes providing blood, urine, and hair samples.
The study aims to improve our understanding of childhood obesity causes.
There are no new medicines or treatments involved.
You can withdraw your child from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two main groups of children. The first group includes children aged between 6 and 15 years old who have obesity, as recognised by certain health guidelines. To be part of this group, they also need to be already getting support through the Val de Loire region's obesity network called ObeCentre.

The second group they're looking for are children aged between 6 and 15 years old who do not have obesity, again based on the same health guidelines. For both groups, an adult (like a parent or legal guardian) must give their written permission for the child to take part, and the child needs to be covered by a social security system.

Children can't take part if they have a condition that would make it difficult for them to understand what the study is about or give their permission fairly. Both boys and girls can take part in this study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Is your child aged between 6 and 15 years old?
Does your child have obesity (if applying for that group) or not have obesity (if applying for the control group)?
If your child has obesity, are they part of the ObeCentre network in the Val de Loire region?
As a parent or guardian, are you able to give written permission for your child to take part?
Is your child covered by a social security system?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If your child takes part in this study, they won't be given any new medicines. Instead, the main part of their involvement will be providing samples. This will include a blood test, a urine sample (a wee sample), and a hair sample. These samples will be used to look for the chemicals mentioned in the study. The researchers haven't mentioned how many visits would be needed or the total length of time your child would be involved, but these types of studies usually involve a limited number of visits. All of this will be clearly explained before you decide to participate.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in any study has potential benefits and risks. For this study, potential benefits include helping researchers better understand childhood obesity and how environmental factors might play a role, which could lead to better health for children in the future. The risks mainly involve the minor discomfort of a blood test and the time taken to provide samples. There are no direct medical benefits for your child from taking part. You have the right to withdraw your child from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting their medical care.

Locations (2)

CHRU de Tours
Verified postcode
Tours, France
CHRU de Tours
Verified postcode
Tours, France

Common questions

What is 'childhood obesity'?

Childhood obesity means a child has too much body fat for their age and height, which can affect their health. Doctors use special charts (BMI curves) to work this out.

What are 'PFAS' and 'BPA'?

PFAS are chemicals used in many items like waterproof materials. BPA is a chemical often found in plastics that store food and drinks. Both are very common in our daily lives.

Will my child get a new treatment in this study?

No, this is an observational study. Your child won't receive any new medicines or treatments as part of this research. It's about collecting information.

What will researchers do with the samples?

They will test the blood, urine, and hair samples to look for different chemicals like PFAS, BPA, and pesticides to see if there's a link to obesity.

Who is paying for this study?

The information provided does not state who is funding the study.

How to find out more

Julien LEJEUNE

j.leujeune@chu-tours.fr +332 47 47 72 34 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.