Outcomes of a family based intervention for the management of childhood obesity

Outlaw, Kerri L

Monday, 18 November 2013

Kerri L Outlaw, CNS, RN
School of Nursing, Troy University, Troy, AL

Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to identify various options for implementation of family based weight loss programs

Learning Objective 2: The learner will have a better understanding of current trends in childhood obesity

Incidence of overweight among adults in Pike County Alabama is higher than the state average at 35.2% compared to 32.2% respectively. Although Alabama does not routinely collect body mass index (BMIs) on school children, local studies have shown that incidence of pediatric overweight and obesity may be as high as 60% and 47% respectively this region. The national prevalence of overweight and obesity in school-aged children (8-12years) has risen approximately 300% over the past quarter century. Even more concerning, younger adults (20-30 years of age) who have been overweight at any time may actually live shorter lives than older obese adults. To further complicate this situation children with obese parents are 4 times more likely to become overweight. To combat this epidemic, efforts must be centered on prevention and early treatment. The goal of this project "Let's Eat and Play" (LEAP) was to demonstrate the effectiveness of a family-based weight loss intervention program on anthropometric measures and health behaviors of 6-11 year old children. Specific objectives included: 1) establish an 8 week, evidence-based family intervention pediatric weight loss program at a local pediatrics practice; 2) attenuate weight gain and improve body composition; 3) increase time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity; 4) improve dietary intake patterns. Conclusions: The LEAP program promotes lifelong healthier eating habits, increased physical activity and changes were realized in anthropometric measurements, decreasing the risk of adulthood obesity.

See more of: Evidence-Based Practice Posters Session 2
See more of: Oral Paper & Poster: Evidence-Based Practice Sessions