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Updated: Mar 23, 2026

Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
Satisfaction and attrition in paediatric weight management
J A Skelton1,2,3, S Martin4, M B Irby1,2
1Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
Paediatric obesity treatment attrition is high, but most children and parents report positive experiences. Logistical challenges, not dissatisfaction, are key reasons for dropout in weight management programs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Paediatric obesity is a significant public health concern.
- High attrition rates plague family-based weight management programs.
- Understanding child and parent perspectives on dropout is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore child and parent experiences in a family-based paediatric weight management program.
- To identify key contributors to treatment attrition from the perspectives of children and parents.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 57 parents and 30 children (completers and dropouts).
- Interviews explored experiences within a family-based weight management program.
- Data were analyzed using a multistage inductive coding approach.
Main Results:
- Five themes emerged: positive program experience, logistical challenges, improved health, differing child/parent perceptions, and importance of structure/expectations.
- Primary dropout reasons included time commitment, distance, missed school/work, lack of adolescent-specific programs, clinic hours, and stress.
- Few participants expressed dissatisfaction; children enjoyed social support and family time.
Conclusions:
- Paediatric weight management programs are generally viewed positively by children and parents.
- Attrition is primarily linked to logistical barriers rather than program dissatisfaction.
- Addressing logistical challenges is vital for reducing dropout rates and improving treatment adherence.
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