[Spanish collaborative study: Description of usual clinical practice in infant obesity]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Childhood obesity presents a significant public health challenge with high prevalence.
• Existing clinical guidelines for childhood obesity management show variability in application.
• This study examines current clinical practices in Spanish Pediatric Endocrinology Units.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the standard clinical practices in Pediatric Endocrinology Units across Spain.
• To assess the alignment of these practices with established clinical guidelines for childhood obesity.
• To identify gaps in resources and adherence to best practices.

Main Methods:

• An observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study design was employed.
• A questionnaire was distributed to pediatric endocrinologists affiliated with the Spanish Society of Pediatric Endocrinology.
• Questionnaire content was based on national clinical practice guidelines for childhood obesity prevention and treatment.

Main Results:

• 125 completed questionnaires were analyzed from all Spanish Autonomous Communities.
• Significant variability was noted in patient caseloads and visit frequency.
• Most respondents (70%) lacked integrated dietitian, psychologist, or psychiatrist support.
• Dietary advice was the primary treatment; weight-loss drug prescription was infrequent (69% never prescribed), with inconsistent use of informed consent when used (52.6%).

Conclusions:

• Few centers fully comply with clinical practice guidelines for childhood obesity as a quality initiative.
• Substantial variation exists in clinical approaches among surveyed pediatric endocrinologists.
• Lack of uniform protocols and limited multidisciplinary resources hinder optimal treatment for childhood obesity.