The Efficacy of a Family-Based Intervention Program on Childhood Obesity: A Quasi-Experimental Design

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Obesity Research
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern globally and in Taiwan.
• Family-based interventions are crucial for addressing childhood obesity by involving parents as agents of change.
• Behavior modification strategies are essential components of effective weight management programs for children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a 7-week family-based (FB) weight-loss and behavior-modification intervention.
• To assess the intervention's impact on overweight/obese children (aged 9-11 years) and their parents in Taiwan.
• To examine changes in children's Body Mass Index (BMI) z-scores and parental behaviors related to diet and screen time.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental design comparing an intervention group (52 child-parent dyads) with a control group (55 child-parent dyads).
• The intervention group received a 7-week FB program, while the control group received an educational pamphlet.
• Outcome variables, including children's BMI z-scores and parental behaviors, were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up using a linear mixed model.

Main Results:

• Children in the FB intervention group showed significantly greater decreases in BMI z-scores from baseline to follow-up compared to the control group.
• Parents in the intervention group demonstrated significant reductions in high-calorie food intake behaviors and decreased availability of high-calorie foods at home.
• Parental restrictions on children's consumption of high-calorie foods and screen-related behaviors significantly increased in the intervention group.

Conclusions:

• The family-based intervention program proved effective in reducing the weight of overweight/obese children in Taiwan.
• The FB program successfully modified parental behaviors, contributing to a healthier home environment for children.
• This study highlights the importance of family involvement in pediatric weight management interventions for sustainable results.