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Assessment of obesity of children with spina bifida
1Department of Rehabilitation Science, Institute of Developmental Research, Aichi Prefectural Colony, Kasugai, Japan.
Insights
Children with spina bifida over six years old are at higher risk of obesity. This study highlights the link between spina bifida, body fat, and the need for early nutritional and mobility interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Metabolic Disorders
- Body Composition Analysis
Background:
- Spina bifida is a complex congenital condition affecting neurological development and mobility.
- Obesity is a growing concern in pediatric populations, particularly those with chronic conditions.
- Understanding body composition in children with spina bifida is crucial for managing associated health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess and compare body fat percentage in children with spina bifida versus age-matched controls.
- To investigate the relationship between neurological factors, ambulatory ability, and body fat in spina bifida patients.
- To identify potential contributing factors to obesity in children with spina bifida.
Main Methods:
- Body fat percentage was measured using underwater weighing and skinfold thickness.
- A cohort of 35 children with spina bifida was compared to 129 healthy, age-matched children.
- Statistical analysis was performed to correlate body fat with clinical parameters like neurological level and hydrocephalus.
Main Results:
- Children with spina bifida aged six and above showed a significantly higher percentage of body fat compared to controls (58%).
- Neurological level and ambulatory status were associated with increased body fat percentage.
- A significant positive correlation was found between body fat percentage and the presence of hydrocephalus.
Conclusions:
- Children with spina bifida, especially those over six years old, are prone to developing increased body fat.
- Both physical inactivity and the condition itself (e.g., hydrocephalus) contribute to metabolic and nutritional issues.
- Early implementation of tailored nutritional and physical activity programs is recommended to prevent obesity in this population.
Abstract:
Percentage body fat of 35 children with spina bifida and 129 age-matched normal children was measured by underwater weighing and skinfold thickness to assess obesity. Percentage body fat of patients below five years was similar to that of controls; however, 58 per cent of patients above six years had an increased percentage of body fat. The neurological level and ambulatory ability were associated with percentage body fat. A significant correlation between percentage body fat and hydrocephalus suggests that the metabolic and nutritional maladaptation is caused not only by these patients' physical inactivity but also by the condition itself. Appropriate nutritional and mobility programmes should be started early to prevent the development of obesity.