| Children that are classified as obese (body mass index (BMI) > 95 th percentile for age and sex, CDC) have an increased risk for metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Family based programs that focus on physical activity (PA) and healthy eating are recommended for treatment of pediatric obesity. The purpose of this retrospective study design is to identify demographic, social cognitive or behavioral characteristics that predict success in a 12-week pediatric weight loss program. Specifically, we will determine which variables, if any, impact changes in physical activity or energy intake behaviors and in turn impact child weight loss.;Overall, child participants lost an average of 2.32 +/- 2.04 kg of body mass in 12 weeks while mothers lost 4.09 +/- 3.83 kg of body mass and fathers lost 8.70 +/- 4.81 of their body mass. There was a significant association between percentage of program goals met and weight loss (r = -0.67, p < 0.05). The program's results indicated that child's change in high fat, high calorie foods significantly predicted weight change in the child (R2 =0.98, p<0.05). Furthermore, both child and parents that adhered to program goals were successful in the program. Success was identified by a decrease in red foods, increase in aerobic minutes and decrease in body mass that was revealed at 12 weeks. Hence, this type of family based pediatric obesity program may offer significant benefits and lead to healthier lifestyles for obese children and their parents. |
