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Behavioral Health in Developmental Disabilities: A Comprehensive Program of Nutrition, Exercise, and Weight Reduction
Richard K Fleming1, Elise A Stokes, Carol Curtin
1Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center at UMASS, Medical School, Trapello Road, Waltham, MA.
International Journal of Behavioral and Consultation Therapy
|April 1, 2010
Summary
This study reviews overweight and obesity in people with intellectual disability (ID) and treatment research. A randomized control trial (RCT) tested a family-based intervention for weight loss in adolescents with Down syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Overweight and obesity are prevalent concerns in individuals with intellectual disability (ID).
- Existing obesity treatment research primarily focuses on typically developing children.
- Adaptations are needed to address the unique needs of children with ID in weight management interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on overweight and obesity prevalence and contributing factors in individuals with ID.
- To examine obesity treatment research for typically developing children and its applicability to children with ID.
- To report findings from a randomized control trial (RCT) evaluating a family-based behavioral intervention for weight loss in adolescents with Down syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review on overweight/obesity in ID and treatment studies.
- Analysis of adaptations for obesity interventions in children with ID.
- Randomized control trial (RCT) of a family-based behavioral intervention for weight loss.
Main Results:
- The literature review highlights the prevalence and conditions associated with overweight and obesity in people with ID.
- Adaptations of interventions for children with ID are discussed.
- Results from the RCT on family-based behavioral intervention for adolescents with Down syndrome are presented.
Conclusions:
- Further research and practice are needed to address overweight and obesity in individuals with ID.
- Family-based behavioral interventions show promise for weight management in adolescents with Down syndrome.
- Tailored strategies are essential for effective obesity treatment in this population.
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