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Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
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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
PubMed

Insights

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.
Abstract

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