A Multi-Component Day-Camp Weight-Loss Program Is Effective in Reducing BMI in Children after One Year: A Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Obesity Research
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Childhood overweight and obesity are significant public health concerns requiring effective, long-term management strategies.
• Current interventions often lack sustained efficacy, highlighting the need for innovative approaches.
• A multi-component, immersive day-camp model offers a potential solution for intensive, short-term intervention followed by ongoing support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the one-year effectiveness of a multi-component immersive day-camp weight-loss intervention for children aged 11-13 with overweight and obesity.
• To compare the intervention's impact on body mass index (BMI), BMI z-score, cardiovascular risk, and body composition against a standard intervention.

Main Methods:

• A parallel-group randomized controlled trial involving 115 children with overweight/obesity.
• Intervention group: 6-week day camp (increased physical activity, healthy diet) followed by a 1-year family-based program.
• Control group: 6 weeks of standard weekly exercise sessions.
• Outcomes measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 52 weeks.

Main Results:

• After 6 weeks, the day-camp group showed significant improvements in BMI and all secondary outcomes compared to the standard group.
• At 52 weeks, the day-camp group maintained lower BMI, BMI z-score, and clustered cardiovascular risk z-score.
• No significant group differences in body composition were observed at the 52-week follow-up.

Conclusions:

• The immersive day-camp intervention is effective in reducing BMI and improving metabolic health in children with overweight and obesity.
• While initial benefits are substantial, the long-term impact suggests a diminishing effect over one year.
• Further research is needed to optimize interventions for sustained weight management in pediatric populations.