A systematic review and meta-analysis of global data from 2000 to 2023 found that the overall prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents was 8.5% (95% CI 8.2-8.8), with significant variation across countries. Obesity prevalence ranged from 0.4% in Vanuatu to 28.4% in Puerto Rico. Higher prevalence was observed in high-income countries and regions with higher Human Development Index scores. The prevalence of obesity increased by 1.5-fold from 2000-2011 to 2012-2023. Children and adolescents with obesity had a higher risk of depression and hypertension. The pooled prevalence of overweight was 14.8% (95% CI 14.5-15.1) and excess weight was 22.2% (95% CI 21.6-22.8). Risk factors for obesity included age, sex, school type, maternal weight status, breakfast habits, number of meals per day, screen time, and physical activity. Comorbidities associated with obesity included depression, hypertension, and asthma. The study highlights the need for coordinated global efforts to address childhood and adolescent obesity, considering inherent, behavioral, environmental, and sociocultural factors. The findings emphasize the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies to reduce the burden of obesity and its associated health complications.A systematic review and meta-analysis of global data from 2000 to 2023 found that the overall prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents was 8.5% (95% CI 8.2-8.8), with significant variation across countries. Obesity prevalence ranged from 0.4% in Vanuatu to 28.4% in Puerto Rico. Higher prevalence was observed in high-income countries and regions with higher Human Development Index scores. The prevalence of obesity increased by 1.5-fold from 2000-2011 to 2012-2023. Children and adolescents with obesity had a higher risk of depression and hypertension. The pooled prevalence of overweight was 14.8% (95% CI 14.5-15.1) and excess weight was 22.2% (95% CI 21.6-22.8). Risk factors for obesity included age, sex, school type, maternal weight status, breakfast habits, number of meals per day, screen time, and physical activity. Comorbidities associated with obesity included depression, hypertension, and asthma. The study highlights the need for coordinated global efforts to address childhood and adolescent obesity, considering inherent, behavioral, environmental, and sociocultural factors. The findings emphasize the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies to reduce the burden of obesity and its associated health complications.