Introduction: Maternal obesity is a global public health concern with increasing prevalence rates over recent decades. Its consequences extend beyond maternal health to impact offspring health, mediated by disruptions in the intrauterine environment. This study aimed to investigate the long-term consequences of maternal obesity on offspring health, addressing gaps in understanding mechanisms, elucidating lasting effects, and clarifying inconsistent findings in existing literature. Methods: Maternal data encompassed demographic information, pre-pregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, and gestational diabetes or hypertensive disorders. Offspring data included birth weight, gestational age, neonatal complications, childhood growth trajectories, and diagnoses of long-term health conditions. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and multivariable regression. Results: Baseline characteristics revealed a cohort with high maternal obesity prevalence and notable rates of gestational diabetes and hypertension. Offspring birth outcomes indicated increased risks of macrosomia and neonatal complications. Childhood growth trajectories showed a concerning pattern of increasing BMI z-scores over time. Long-term health outcomes revealed significant proportions of offspring diagnosed with obesity-related conditions. Maternal obesity was significantly associated with increased risks of macrosomia and childhood obesity. Conclusion: This retrospective cohort study provides robust evidence of the detrimental impact of maternal obesity on offspring health across various life stages. Interventions targeting maternal obesity are crucial for breaking the cycle of intergenerational obesity and improving long-term health outcomes for future generations. Further research is warranted to elucidate underlying mechanisms and inform targeted interventions effectively.

Maternal obesity is a global public health concern with increasing prevalence rates over recent decades.