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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
05:10
Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
A pediatric weight management program for high-risk populations: a preliminary analysis.
Joseph A Skelton1, Laure G DeMattia, Glenn Flores
1Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. jskelton@wfubmc.edu
Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.)
|May 3, 2008
Summary
This study shows that a multidisciplinary pediatric weight management program significantly improved cardiovascular risk factors in high-risk children. While BMI z-score slightly decreased, the program effectively addressed obesity comorbidities.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Public Health
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Pediatric obesity is a growing public health concern with significant long-term health implications.
- High-risk pediatric populations, including minorities and those with comorbidities, require effective weight management strategies.
- Cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) are often present in obese children, necessitating early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary pediatric weight management program in improving Body Mass Index (BMI), BMI z-score, and CVRFs.
- To identify factors associated with changes in weight status and CVRFs in a high-risk pediatric population.
- To assess the program's impact on diverse, underserved groups including racial/ethnic minorities and Medicaid recipients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of children participating in the NEW Kids Program for at least 9 months and over 4 visits.
- Analysis of pre- and post-intervention data for BMI, BMI z-score, and CVRF laboratory values.
- Inclusion criteria focused on children with obesity and related comorbidities, including those from impoverished communities and on Medicaid.
Main Results:
- The study included 66 high-risk children (mean age 11 years), with 56% racial/ethnic minorities and 38% having BMI ≥40 kg/m².
- Significant improvements were observed in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglyceride levels post-intervention.
- While absolute BMI increased, a small but significant decrease in BMI z-score was noted; factors like insurance, race, gender, age, and initial BMI did not significantly correlate with changes.
Conclusions:
- Multidisciplinary pediatric weight management programs can effectively improve CVRFs in high-risk pediatric populations.
- These programs demonstrate benefits for severely obese children, those with multiple comorbidities, and underserved ethnic minority groups.
- The findings support the integration of comprehensive, family-based interventions for pediatric obesity management.
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