*2.1. Perinatal and Early Life Risk Factors*

The concept that perinatal conditions, both intrauterine and early life increase the risk of many diseases later in life has gained traction over the last decades. The impact of early life on the development of obesity is a relevant issue due to its high prevalence and association with cardiometabolic risk factors. The greater propensity for obesity in later life seen in children heavier at birth, and an increase in central fat distribution in those with low birth weight (BW), suggest that fetal life is a critical window for programming later body adiposity. Scientific interest has grown regarding the associations of preconception, maternal and paternal health with childhood obesity. Furthermore, early child growth patterns have been emphasized as indicators of future child risks. The precise mechanisms of early programming of such disease states have only partially been elucidated; however, there is evidence to suggest that a window of opportunity may exist in the infant before and during pregnancy, and up to two years of age.
