Exergaming for health: a community-based pediatric weight management program using active video gaming

Area of Science:

• Pediatric obesity intervention
• Exergaming technology in health
• Community-based health programs

Background:

• Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern requiring innovative management strategies.
• Traditional weight management programs often face challenges with adherence and long-term engagement.
• Exergaming offers a novel approach to increase physical activity and combat sedentary behavior in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness and feasibility of a community-based weight management program for children utilizing exergaming technology.
• To evaluate changes in Body Mass Index (BMI) z scores as a primary outcome.
• To explore secondary outcomes including self-worth, screen time, and physical activity levels.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational pilot study involving 48 overweight or obese children aged 8-16 years.
• Participants enrolled in the 'Exergaming for Health' multidisciplinary weight management program.
• Primary outcome: change in Body Mass Index (BMI) z scores.

Main Results:

• High program completion rate (83%) and participation in evaluations.
• Significant average reduction in BMI ( -0.48 kg/m(2)) and BMI z-score (-0.072).
• Improvements observed in Global Self-Worth, reduced screen time and soda intake, and increased weekly exercise.

Conclusions:

• The Exergaming for Health program appears to be a feasible and effective intervention for pediatric weight management.
• High participation rates suggest exergaming is an engaging modality for children.
• Further validation through a larger randomized controlled trial is recommended.