Memphis Girls health Enrichment Multi-site Studies (GEMS): Phase 2: design and baseline

Obesity prevalence is increasing in the U.S., especially among children and minority populations. This report describes the design and baseline data of the ongoing Girls health Enrichment Multi-site Studies (GEMS) trial (Memphis site), which is testing the efficacy of a 2-year family-based intervention to reduce excessive increase in body mass index (BMI). This randomized, controlled trial conducted at community centers in Memphis, Tennessee requires major measurements at baseline and at 12 and 24 months post-randomization. The participants are healthy African-American girls and one parent/caregiver of each girl. Participating girls are of ages 8-10 years, with BMI>or=25th percentile of the CDC 2000 growth charts or with one overweight or obese parent/caregiver (BMI>or=25 kg/m(2)). The active intervention is designed to prevent excessive weight gain by promoting healthy eating habits and increasing physical activity. An alternative intervention (comparison group) promotes general self-esteem and social efficacy. The main outcome measure is the difference between the two treatment groups in the change in BMI at 2 years. Three hundred and three girls have been randomly assigned to receive the test intervention (n=153) or the alternative intervention (n=150). The two groups do not differ in baseline characteristics. At the time of enrollment, the mean age was 9 years, the mean BMI was 22 kg/m(2) (mean BMI percentile=77 th), and 41% were overweight (BMI>/=95th percentile using CDC 2000 growth charts). Participants' intake of fruits and vegetables (1.3 serving/day) and fats (36% kcal), and their participation in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (20 min/day), did not meet national recommendations. The GEMS obesity prevention intervention targets improved diet and increased physical activity to reduce excessive weight gain in healthy African-American girls of ages 8-10.