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Weight control counselling in children: is it effective?
1IWK Children's Hospital, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Journal of the Canadian Dietetic Association
|February 2, 1993
Summary
This pediatric weight control program showed poor results, with most children remaining obese and many not returning for follow-up. The study concludes the current obesity counselling is ineffective and suggests a new multidisciplinary approach.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant health concern requiring effective interventions.
- Outpatient nutrition clinics play a role in managing pediatric weight management.
- Evaluating existing programs is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a weight control and obesity counselling program in a pediatric hospital setting.
- To identify factors influencing patient outcomes and program adherence.
- To inform the development of improved pediatric obesity management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 96 randomly selected pediatric patients.
- Follow-up data collected for up to four years via hospital charts or physician reports.
- Analysis of weight changes, adherence to follow-up, and demographic factors.
Main Results:
- 91% of children were classified as obese or severely obese at initial assessment.
- 51% of referred patients did not attend follow-up appointments.
- Among patients with follow-up data, only 8% achieved ideal body weight, while 46% gained weight.
Conclusions:
- The current weight control and obesity counselling program is ineffective in achieving significant weight loss.
- Program attrition and lack of sustained weight management indicate a need for program redesign.
- A multidisciplinary approach incorporating nutrition education theory, evaluation, and addressing patient needs is recommended.