The Effects of Teleinterventions on Pediatric Weight Control: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Public Health
• Digital Health

Background:

• Childhood overweight and obesity are critical global health concerns.
• Teleinterventions offer a scalable approach to deliver weight management strategies.
• These interventions utilize various digital platforms like apps, websites, and phone calls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of teleinterventions compared to non-teleinterventions for anthropometric outcomes in children with overweight or obesity.
• To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials on weight management in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials (2866 children).
• Searched major databases (Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science).
• Analyzed changes in BMI, BMI z-score, body fat, and waist circumference using random-effects models.

Main Results:

• Teleinterventions significantly reduced BMI z-score at 4-6 and 7-12 months.
• Significant reductions in BMI and waist circumference observed at 4-6 months.
• Interventions involving family or professional interaction showed greater benefits.
• No significant reduction in body fat was found.

Conclusions:

• Teleinterventions, especially with family engagement, provide significant short- to medium-term weight control benefits for children with overweight or obesity.
• Telemedicine presents a promising strategy for addressing childhood obesity.
• Further research may explore long-term effects and specific intervention components.