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The factor that is considered the greatest risk for childhood obesity is poverty. Children who grow up in low-income households are more likely to face a range of challenges that contribute to obesity, including limited access to healthy foods, fewer opportunities for physical activity, and a higher reliance on inexpensive, calorie-dense foods. These socioeconomic barriers can significantly impact a child's ability to maintain a healthy weight.

Additionally, poverty often correlates with other stressors such as food insecurity and inadequate access to healthcare, further compounding the risk of obesity. Research has shown that as family income decreases, the likelihood of a child being overweight or obese notably increases, highlighting the vital role that socioeconomic status plays in childhood health outcomes.

In contrast, while factors like lack of cognitive stimulation, parental divorce, and parental education can influence various aspects of a child's development and health, they do not have the same level of direct impact on obesity as poverty does. Addressing poverty-related issues can therefore be a crucial step in tackling the obesity epidemic among children.