[REBOUND EFFECT OF INTERVENTION PROGRAMS TO REDUCE OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS; SYSTEMATIC...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Childhood obesity results from complex genetic and environmental factors, with prenatal nutrition influencing energy balance regulation.
• Rapid weight gain in early life and lower breastfeeding rates are linked to increased obesity risk.
• The 'rebound effect' in childhood obesity occurs when weight is regained after intervention, highlighting the need for sustained management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review studies on the rebound effect in childhood obesity.
• To evaluate adherence to weight loss treatments for overweight and obese children and adolescents.
• To identify effective intervention strategies for long-term childhood obesity management.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
• Nineteen relevant studies were selected for analysis.
• Studies focused on medium and long-term interventions, adherence, and the rebound effect.

Main Results:

• Interventions combining diet and physical activity demonstrate beneficial short- and long-term effects in obese children.
• Multidisciplinary treatment programs are crucial for effective childhood obesity management.
• Encouraging long-term effects are observed with comprehensive approaches.

Conclusions:

• Short-duration programs often show a rebound effect, with BMI increasing post-intervention.
• Effective interventions are typically multidisciplinary, involve families and schools, and exceed one year in duration.
• Sustained family and school involvement is key to overcoming the rebound effect and achieving lasting results.