The efficacy of the web-based childhood obesity prevention program in Chinese American adolescents (Web ABC study)

To examine the feasibility and efficacy of a theory-driven and family-based program delivered online to promote healthy lifestyles and weights in Chinese American adolescents.

A randomized controlled study of a web-based intervention was developed and conducted in 54 Chinese American adolescents (ages, 12-15 years) and their families. Data on anthropometry, blood pressure, dietary intake, physical activity, and knowledge and self-efficacy regarding physical activity and nutrition were collected at baseline and 2, 6, and 8 months after the baseline assessment. Data were analyzed using linear mixed modeling.

The intervention resulted in significant decreases in waist-to-hip ratio and diastolic blood pressure and increases in vegetable and fruit intake, level of physical activity, and knowledge about physical activity and nutrition.

This web-based behavior program for Chinese American adolescents and their families seems feasible and effective in the short-term. Long-term effects remain to be determined. This type of program can be adapted for other minority ethnic groups who are at high-risk for overweight and obesity and have limited access to programs that promote healthy lifestyles.