A community-driven obesity prevention and intervention in an elementary school

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Community Health

Background:

• An elementary school with high rates of childhood obesity (48.8% overweight, 30.7% obese) was identified, characterized by low-income families, a minority population, and an unsafe neighborhood for physical activity.
• These demographic factors contribute to national obesity risk factors, with the school's obese population significantly exceeding the national average of 16%.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate an after-school program aimed at promoting healthy, active lifestyles among elementary school students.
• To address the high prevalence of overweight and obesity within a specific underserved student population.

Main Methods:

• An after-school program was developed targeting students with a body mass index (BMI) above the 85th percentile.
• Sessions included physical activities, nutritional education, and motivational discussions with pediatric psychiatry residents.
• Universal interventions were also implemented to engage the entire school population.

Main Results:

• The targeted after-school program showed a trend towards slowing the average rate of weight gain in its participants.
• While not statistically significant compared to similar demographics, the trends supported the program's goals.
• A statistically significant difference (p=0.027) in mean BMI percentile was observed between the universal school population and a comparison school.

Conclusions:

• School-based interventions, when conducted collaboratively by community agencies and organizations, offer a promising strategy for preventing and managing childhood obesity.
• This approach is considered cost-effective for public health initiatives targeting at-risk youth.