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Preventing obesity at weaning: parental views about the EMPOWER programme
J Barlow1, S Whitlock, S Hanson
1Public Health in the Early Years, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK. jane.barlow@warwick.ac.uk
Child: Care, Health and Development
|July 22, 2010
Summary
The EMPOWER program, supporting parents of high-risk infants, was found acceptable and valuable for preventing childhood obesity. This intervention empowers families with knowledge and lifestyle changes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Obesity Prevention
- Public Health Interventions
- Family Health
Background:
- Infant growth and lifestyle are critical determinants of later obesity.
- The EMPOWER (Empowering Parents to Prevent Obesity at Weaning: Exploratory Research) program targets high-risk infants.
- It utilizes a strengths-based, solution-focused approach delivered by trained health visitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine parent perceptions of the EMPOWER program's acceptability and usefulness.
- To gather insights into the effectiveness of a novel obesity prevention intervention for infants.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving interviews with mothers of babies in the EMPOWER pilot.
- Thematic analysis was conducted on transcribed interviews.
- Exploratory randomized controlled trial is currently underway.
Main Results:
- Parents positively perceived the health visitor's approach, valuing listening, partnership, and problem-solving.
- A non-judgmental approach facilitated open discussion of sensitive issues like weight and diet.
- Benefits included increased knowledge of nutrition and broader family lifestyle modifications.
Conclusions:
- The EMPOWER program is acceptable and valued by parents, showing potential for preventing childhood obesity in high-risk families.
- It is perceived as more valuable than standard care.
- Further research via a phase 3 trial is being explored.
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