Parent skills training to enhance weight loss in overweight children: evaluation of NOURISH

The children of parents who receive treatment for binge-eating disorder experience improvements in disordered eating

OBJECTIVE

Parental eating disorders are associated with disordered eating behaviors and psychopathology in their children, but it is not known whether parent treatment for binge-eating disorder (BED) is associated with changes in child disordered eating behaviors and weight. Benefits or the "ripple" effect of treatment on untreated family members has been described in the obesity literature but not for BED.

METHOD

Participants evaluated for two randomized clinical trials for BED were screened for whether they had children. 76 parents completed baseline assessments about a school-aged child; 62 were randomized to treatment, of whom 41 completed end-of-treatment assessments about their child's eating behaviors and weight (which were not targeted in the parent treatments).

RESULTS

Analyses revealed a significant effect of time on children's binge-eating frequency and perceived weight category and a significant effect of parent medication on perceived weight category. Parental change in binge eating was associated significantly with changes in child secretive eating and food hoarding. Parental change in weight was not associated significantly with change in age/sex-normed child BMI percentile, but had some associations with parent-perceived child weight category.

CONCLUSIONS

Parent changes during their treatment were associated with changes in their children. Future longitudinal research is needed to examine when disordered eating emerges and clarify critical intervention timing related to children's age and parental BED. Further clinical research is also needed to assess the effectiveness of treating disordered eating at the family level.

PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE

Prior cross-sectional work has found that parents with BED are more likely to have children who engage in binge eating compared to parents without eating-disorder psychopathology. This study was an initial exploration of change in children when parents received treatment in randomized controlled trials for BED. In this study, parent changes in binge eating were associated with reduced child secretive eating and food hoarding.

The effectiveness of group-based, parent-only weight management interventions for children and the factors associated with outcomes: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Obesity in Childhood is a significant public health issue, which requires both a preventative and treatment approach. International guidelines continue to recommend family-focused, multicomponent, childhood weight management programmes and many studies have investigated their effectiveness, however, findings have been mixed and primarily based on weight. Thus, the aim of this review was to assess the effectiveness of group-based parent-only interventions on a broad range of child health-related outcomes and to investigate the factors associated with intervention outcomes.

METHODS

An electronic database search was conducted using CINAHL, Medline, PsychINFO, Embase and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews: 522 articles were identified for full text review and 15 studies were selected. The quality of studies were appraised and data were synthesised according to the review aims.

RESULTS

Parent-only group interventions are effective in changing children's weight status, as well as other outcomes such as health behaviours and self-esteem, although these were reported inconsistently. Parent-only interventions were generally found to be similar to parent-child interventions, and minimal contact interventions but better than a waiting list control. Factors found to be associated with treatment outcomes, included session attendance, the child's age and weight at baseline, socioeconomic status of families and modification to the home food environment. The methodological quality of the studies included in the review was low, with only six studies rated to be methodologically adequate.

CONCLUSIONS

Parent-only interventions may be an effective treatment for improving the health status of children and their families, particularly when compared with waitlist controls. However, results need to be interpreted with caution due to the low quality of the studies and the high rates of non-completion.

Parents as Agents of Change in Managing Pediatric Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy versus Psychoeducation Interventions

Background: Obesity interventions for parents of children with obesity can improve children's weight and health. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluated whether a parent-based intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles was superior to a parent-based intervention based on a psychoeducation program (PEP) in improving children's obesity. Methods: This study was a pragmatic, two-armed, parallel, superiority RCT. Conducted at a Canadian outpatient pediatric obesity management clinic (September 2010-January 2014), this trial included families with children 8-12 years with an age- and sex-specific BMI ≥85th percentile. The 16-week manualized interventions were similar in content and delivered to parents exclusively, with different theoretical underpinnings. The primary outcome was children's BMI z-score at postintervention (4 months). Secondary outcomes included anthropometric, lifestyle, psychosocial, and cardiometabolic variables. Data were collected at preintervention (0 months), postintervention (4 months), 10, and 16 months. Intention-to-treat analysis using linear mixed models was used to assess outcomes. Results: Among 52 randomly assigned children, the mean age (standard deviation) was 9.8 (1.7) years and BMI z-score was 2.2 (0.3). Mean differences in BMI z-score were not significantly different between the CBT (n = 27) and PEP (n = 25) groups from 0 to 4-, 10-, and 16-month follow-up. At 4 months, the mean difference in BMI z-score from preintervention between the CBT (-0.05, 95% CI = -0.09 to 0.00) and PEP (-0.04, 95% CI = -0.09 to 0.01) groups was -0.01 (95% CI = -0.08 to 0.06, p = 0.80). Similar results were found across all secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Our CBT-based intervention for parents of children with obesity was not superior in reducing BMI z-score vs. our PEP-based intervention.

EASO and EFAD Position Statement on Medical Nutrition Therapy for the Management of Overweight and Obesity in Children and Adolescents

INTRODUCTION

This position statement on medical nutrition therapy in the management of overweight or obesity in children and adolescents was prepared by an expert committee convened by the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) and developed in collaboration with the European Federation of the Associations of Dietitians (EFAD).

METHODS

It is based on the best evidence available from systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials on child and adolescent overweight and obesity treatment and other relevant peer-reviewed literature.

RESULTS

Multicomponent behavioural interventions are generally considered to be the gold standard treatment for children and adolescents living with obesity. The evidence presented in this position statement confirms that dietary interventions can effectively improve adiposity-related outcomes. Dietary strategies should focus on the reduction of total energy intake through promotion of food-based guidelines that target modification of usual eating patterns and behaviours. These should target increasing intakes of nutrient-rich foods with a lower energy density, specifically vegetables and fruits, and a reduction in intakes of energy-dense nutrient-poor foods and beverages. In addition, higher intensity, longer duration treatments, delivered by interventionists with specialized dietetic-related skills and co-designed with families, are associated with greater treatment effects.

DISCUSSION

Such interventions should be resourced adequately so that they can be implemented in a range of settings and in different formats, including digital or online delivery, to enhance accessibility.

Culturally Sensitive Interventions in Pediatric Primary Care Settings: A Systematic Review

CONTEXT

Culturally sensitive interventions in the pediatric primary care setting may help reduce health disparities. Less is known on the development of these interventions, their target groups, and their feasibility, acceptability, and impact on health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a systematic review to describe culturally sensitive interventions developed for the pediatric primary care setting.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsycInfo (January 2000 to July 2020).

STUDY SELECTION

Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were (1) original research on an intervention with an evaluation, (2) within a pediatric primary care setting, (3) not limited to education for providers, (4) not limited to interpreter use, and (5) based in the United States.

DATA EXTRACTION

The following were extracted: study topic, study design, intervention, cultural sensitivity strategies and terminology, setting, target group, sample size, feasibility, acceptability, and health outcomes.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies described 23 interventions targeting a variety of health topics. Multiple cultural sensitivity strategies were used, most commonly sociocultural (83%). Most interventions (57%) were focused on Hispanic/Latino families. Interventions were generally reported as being feasible and acceptable; some also changed health outcomes.

LIMITATIONS

Small samples and heterogenous methods subject to bias were used. Relevant articles may have been missed because of the variety of terms used to describe cultural sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

The included articles provide preliminary evidence that culturally sensitive interventions can be feasible and effective and may help eliminate disparities for patients from communities with barriers to equitable care.

Parental feeding practices and children's disordered eating among single parents and co-parents

OBJECTIVE

Some parental feeding practices are associated with pediatric disordered eating and weight status. Existing research, however, has focused on maternal feeding practices in co-parent households. Single parents and fathers are notably understudied in this area. The current study examined associations of parental feeding practices with child disordered eating behaviors and weight, and compared associations between single mothers and fathers with a matched sample of co-parenting mothers and fathers.

METHOD

Parents (N = 524) of youth between 5 and 16 years completed an online survey that included measures of parental feeding practices and unhealthy eating/weight-related parenting practices. Co-parents were matched to each single parent based on gender, race, ethnicity, education level, age, and BMI.

RESULTS

Single parents reported significantly greater concern about their child's weight, eating and shape, and reported engaging in more restraint and restriction of their child's eating, as well as having more perceived responsibility of their child's eating than caregivers in co-parent households. Children of single parents were significantly more likely to engage in secretive eating.

DISCUSSION

Associations between single parents' feeding practices and child weight and disordered eating parallel the broader literature. There were differences between single mothers and fathers and co-parenting mothers and fathers, particularly in their report of their unhealthy eating/weight-related parenting practices. Such differences may influence children's longer-term eating behaviors and weight status. Further research on single-parent households is needed, including longitudinal and epidemiological studies.

Developing Adaptando Dieta Y Acción Para Todos (ADAPT): An Intervention to Improve Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Among Latino Parents and Children Living in Rural Communities

Latino migrant farmworkers are at great risk of obesity and its concomitant negative health impacts. Obesity interventions for this underserved, minority population are limited. We expanded upon our prior intervention work in childhood obesity to develop a multi-family, behavioral intervention, ADAPT. We conducted three phases in the development of the ADAPT program: Phase 1, a needs assessment, Phase 2, in-depth focus groups with Latino parents, their children, and stakeholders, and Phase 3, a feasibility and acceptability trial to inform program optimization. Acceptability and feasibility of ADAPT promoting healthier eating and physical activity behaviors was found. Each phase of the project led to implementation changes to ADAPT, resulting in greater intervention optimization. Participants reported key facilitators and barriers to our intervention, expressing great interest in participation. They particularly liked our mindfulness session. We are currently examining the feasibility of integrating mindfulness to optimize ADAPT efficacy.

A cluster-randomized control trial targeting parents of pediatric cancer survivors with obesity: Rationale and study protocol of NOURISH-T

Approximately 40-50% of pediatric cancer survivors (PCS) are overweight or obese; increasing their risk for metabolic syndrome and other negative long-term physical health complications. Using our successful pilot trial testing the preliminary feasibility and efficacy of NOURISH for Healthy Transitions (NOURISH-T), we refined our intervention, now NOURISH-T+, and will implement these refinements in this larger, multi-site randomized control trial. Parents of PCS with overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 85th%ile), age 5-12, ≥6 months off treatment are randomly assigned to the NOURISH-T+ intervention or Enhanced Usual Care (EUC) comparison. Parents in NOURISH-T+ will participate in a 6-session, manualized intervention, with an additional dietician session and 2 PCS sessions, as well as post-intervention booster sessions. EUC consists of a one-time informational session, nationally available brochures and follow-up check-ins. Both study conditions will be conducted remotely via a videoconferencing platform. Parents and PCS will be assessed on anthropometric measures, physical activity (PA) and dietary behaviors at baseline, 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-intervention. We will enroll a diverse group of 260 parents/PCS dyads from four pediatric oncology clinics with the aim of evaluating the efficacy of our intervention across diverse pediatric oncology clinics. Our main aim is to compare the impact of NOURISH-T+ with EUC on PCS BMI z-score. Secondary aims are to compare intervention impact on PCS PA and eating behaviors and parent BMI and behaviors as well as to explore potential moderators of the intervention. Our longer-term goal is to establish a framework for future translation and dissemination of NOURISH-T+.

Design and rationale for ADAPT+: Optimizing an intervention to promote healthy behaviors in rural, Latino youth with obesity and their parents, using mindfulness strategies

Latino youth living in rural areas represent an ethnic and geographical minority population at increased risk for obesity and obesity-related complications. We previously modified our child obesity intervention to be a multi-family behavioral intervention, Adaptando Dieta y Acción Para Todos (ADAPT), to better meet the needs of our target population, rural Latino youth with obesity (8-12 years old) and their parents. Recognizing the role of parent stress on obesity, the main goal of this study is to 1) further refine and optimize the original ADAPT multi-family behavioral obesity intervention protocol to include mindfulness parent stress reduction strategies (now called ADAPT+) and then 2) assess the feasibility of ADAPT+ implementation via a small randomized control trial (RCT) with rural Latino families. Two aims guide the study. For Aim 1 we conduct a series of focus groups with stakeholders and parents, and then conduct a one-arm trial with both parents and their children to obtain feedback for further refining each of our eight integrated ADAPT+ sessions. Aim 2 tests the acceptability and feasibility of our intervention with multi-family groups of Latinos in two rural communities over time (pre-intervention, post-intervention, 3-month follow-up) in a randomized pilot trial (ADAPT+ vs. Enhanced Usual Care [EUC] comparison). This study is intended to set the groundwork for a larger clinical trial to test ADAPT+'s efficacy to improve rural Latino families' eating and physical activity behaviors.

Reach of a low-intensity, multicomponent childhood overweight and obesity intervention delivered in an integrated primary care setting

Reach (i.e., proportion and representativeness of participants) of low-intensity, multicomponent childhood overweight/obesity interventions delivered in primary care settings with low-income and/or minority families is unknown. The purpose of this research is to describe the reach of a low-intensity, multicomponent childhood overweight/obesity intervention delivered in an integrated primary care setting in a federally qualified health center (FQHC). Eligibility criteria included children aged 4-10 years with a body mass index (BMI) ≥85th percentile, with a female caregiver. Using the electronic health record (EHR) and release forms, families were broadly categorized into groupings from recruitment flow, with differing proportions calculated from these groupings. Representativeness was determined using EHR data from families who were informed about the program (n = 963). Three calculated reach rates ranged from 54.9% to 3.9%. Lower reach rates were calculated using the number of families randomized (n = 73) as the numerator and the children from families who were informed about the program (n = 963) or all eligible children in the FQHC attending appointments (n = 1,864) as denominators. The first two steps in recruitment, informing families about the program and families initiating participation, were where the largest decreases in reach occurred. Children who were randomized were older, had a higher BMI, had a greater number of medical diagnoses indicating overweight or obesity, and were Hispanic. Reach of the intervention was low. Strategies that assist with reducing time for informing families of treatment and increasing families' awareness of their child's weight status should assist with enhancing reach.

Recruitment and retention of families interested in a parent-based pediatric obesity intervention

Recruitment and retention in pediatric obesity treatment remains challenging, especially for groups at highest risk of this condition, including African Americans. However, most investigations examine attrition during intervention or follow-up. Little is known about those who refuse enrollment, or drop out at baseline. Thus, the trajectory of recruitment, enrollment, and retention, especially at these early stages, is not well understood, limiting knowledge of treatment access. This study examined enrollment in a pediatric weight management intervention. We provide demographic information on nested consort flow groups. We compared non-overlapping interest/enrollment groups to examine differences between those who progressed to the next consort flow group and those who did not; specifically the four groups examined were: (1) eligible at screening, did not attend baseline (n_children = 261), (2) attended baseline, did not enroll (n_children = 46), (3) enrolled, did not complete posttesting (n_children = 81), and (4) completed posttesting (n_children = 284). Of enrolled families, >70% were African American; >78% completed posttesting. No differences emerged across groups on sex, ethnicity, or race (ps > .05). Attrition was unrelated to initial child BMI. In this trial, the goal of enrolling diverse parents of children with obesity was achieved, and most enrollees completed treatment.

A Parent Treatment Program for Preschoolers With Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Early obesity treatment seems to be the most effective, but few treatments exist. In this study, we examine the effectiveness of a parent-only treatment program with and without booster sessions (Booster or No Booster) focusing on parenting practices and standard treatment (ST).

METHODS

Families of children 4 to 6 years of age with obesity were recruited from 68 child care centers in Stockholm County and randomly assigned to a parent-only program (10 weeks) with or without boosters (9 months) or to ST. Treatment effects on primary outcomes (BMI z score) and secondary outcomes (BMI and waist circumference) during a 12-month period were examined with linear mixed models. The influence of sociodemographic factors was examined by 3-way interactions. The clinically significant change in BMI z score (-0.5) was assessed with risk ratios.

RESULTS

A total of 174 children (mean age: 5.3 years [SD = 0.8]; BMI z score: 3.0 [SD = 0.6], 56% girls) and their parents (60% foreign background; 39% university degree) were included in the analysis (Booster, n = 44; No Booster, n = 43; ST, n = 87). After 12 months, children in the parent-only treatment had a greater reduction in their BMI z score (0.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.45 to -0.15) compared with ST (0.07; 95% CI: -0.19 to 0.05). Comparing all 3 groups, improvements in weight status were only seen for the Booster group (-0.54; 95% CI: -0.77 to -0.30). The Booster group was 4.8 times (95% CI: 2.4 to 9.6) more likely to reach a clinically significant reduction of ≥0.5 of the BMI z score compared with ST.

CONCLUSION

A parent-only treatment with boosters outperformed standard care for obesity in preschoolers.

Participants' Perceptions of "C.H.A.M.P. Families": A Parent-Focused Intervention Targeting Paediatric Overweight and Obesity

Background: Recently, our team implemented a 13-week group-based intervention for parents of children with obesity ("C.H.A.M.P. Families"). The primary objective of this study was to explore, qualitatively, parents' perspectives of their experiences in and influence of C.H.A.M.P. Families, as well as their recommendations for future paediatric obesity treatment interventions. Methods: Twelve parents (seven mothers, five fathers/step-fathers) representing seven children (four girls, three boys) with obesity participated in one of two focus groups following the intervention. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim and data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Findings showed that parents perceived their participation in C.H.A.M.P. Families to be a positive experience. Participants highlighted several positive health-related outcomes for children, families, and parents. Parents also underscored the importance and positive impact of the group environment, specific educational content, and additional program components such as free child-minding. Recommendations for future interventions were also provided, including greater child involvement and more practical strategies. Finally, parents identified several barriers including socioenvironmental issues, time constraints, and parenting challenges. Conclusions: Researchers developing family-based childhood obesity interventions should consider the balance of parent and child involvement, as well as emphasize group dynamics strategies and positive family communication.

The Influence of Parental Dieting Behavior on Child Dieting Behavior and Weight Status

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To explore the relationship that parental dieting behavior (e.g., dieting, encouragement to diet, weight-teasing) has on child dieting behavior and weight status.

RECENT FINDINGS

Encouragement to diet and weight-teasing are both strong predictors of child dieting behavior in both childhood and adolescence. The impact of parent modeling of dieting behavior on child dieting behavior is mixed, but there is enough evidence to suggest that modeling is more impactful on daughters than sons and when parents are modeling unhealthy and extreme weight control behaviors (e.g., skipping meals). Parental dieting, both via modeling and increased use of encouragement to diet and weight-teasing, is associated with negative child eating and weight outcomes. Parental use of direct communication surrounding weight appears to be a more salient risk factor than parental modeling of dieting behavior. Future work is needed to develop strategies for parents to lower their child's risk of dieting.

Impact of motivational interviewing on engagement in a parent-exclusive paediatric obesity intervention: randomized controlled trial of NOURISH+MI

BACKGROUND

Attrition and treatment adherence are notorious challenges in paediatric obesity interventions.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate if brief, pretreatment motivational interviewing (MI) can improve retention (at baseline, post-assessment and follow-up assessment) and adherence (i.e. attendance) in a parent-exclusive paediatric obesity intervention.

METHODS

MI was implemented with parents as an adjunct to a larger randomized controlled trial of Nourishing Our Understanding of Role-modeling to Improve Support and Health (NOURISH⁺ ), a parent intervention for children with overweight ages 5-11 years. Parents (N = 112) were randomized to receive two MI sessions (one telephone and one in person) or reminder calls.

RESULTS

Parents (91% women; 52% African American) who completed one telephone MI session were more likely to attend baseline (74%) compared with parents who received reminder calls only (53%, p < .001). After a second MI session, there were no group differences in treatment initiation (p > .05). Treatment attendance, post or 4-month follow-up assessment completion did not differ between conditions (p > .05).

CONCLUSION

One MI session implemented prior to treatment can improve baseline attendance; a second MI session did not enhance these effects. A single-session telephone-based MI pretreatment might be a cost and time-effective strategy to enhance recruitment efforts. Further strategies to address retention and treatment attendance are needed.

Research- and Practice-Based Nutrition Education and Cooking Workshops in Pediatric Oncology: Protocol for Implementation and Development of Curriculum

BACKGROUND

Progresses in childhood cancer treatment, diagnosis, and management have resulted in childhood cancer survival rates of over 80%. However, this therapeutic success comes with a heavy price: two-thirds of childhood cancer survivors will be affected by further complications, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Adequate nutrition during cancer treatment is essential to ensure the child's optimal development, improve tolerance to treatments, and can contribute to lower the risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases. Side effects of cancer treatments can negatively impact children's nutritional intake and eating behaviors. Involving the families of childhood cancer patients in educational workshops could be a promising avenue to promote healthy eating during and after cancer treatment.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to develop, validate, and implement a family-based nutrition education and cooking workshop curriculum in a pediatric oncology setting that addresses the nutritional issues encountered during treatments while promoting the adoption of healthy eating habits for the prevention of long-term cardiometabolic effects.

METHODS

The workshops were developed and validated following an 8-step iterative process, including a review of the literature and consultations with a steering committee. An evaluation tool was also developed. A nonrandomized study protocol was elaborated to implement the workshops and measure their impact. The themes of the 6 research- and practice-based lessons are as follows: meal fortification during cancer treatment, changes in taste during cancer therapy and their impact on children, adapting diet to eating-related side effects of treatments, nutritional support during cancer treatment, Mediterranean diet and health, and planning quick and economic meals. The validation process included consultations with the institution's clinical nutrition professionals. Self-administered post questionnaires were developed according to the content of each workshop to measure short-term outcomes, namely, participants' perception of knowledge acquisition, behavioral intention, and satisfaction. Medium-term outcomes that will be evaluated are participants' anthropometric profile, quality of the diet, and circulating biomarkers of metabolic health.

RESULTS

The project was funded in 2016 and enrollment will be completed in 2021. Data analysis is currently under way and the first results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

This research- and practice-based nutrition education and cooking demonstration curriculum could be a valuable complement to a multidisciplinary lifestyle intervention for the prevention of long-term cardiometabolic complications in childhood cancer.

Diet, physical activity and behavioural interventions for the treatment of overweight or obese children from the age of 6 to 11 years

BACKGROUND

Child and adolescent overweight and obesity has increased globally, and can be associated with significant short- and long-term health consequences. This is an update of a Cochrane review published first in 2003, and updated previously in 2009. However, the update has now been split into six reviews addressing different childhood obesity treatments at different ages.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of diet, physical activity and behavioural interventions (behaviour-changing interventions) for the treatment of overweight or obese children aged 6 to 11 years.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS as well as trial registers ClinicalTrials.gov and ICTRP Search Portal. We checked references of studies and systematic reviews. We did not apply any language restrictions. The date of the last search was July 2016 for all databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of diet, physical activity, and behavioural interventions (behaviour-changing interventions) for treating overweight or obese children aged 6 to 11 years, with a minimum of six months' follow-up. We excluded interventions that specifically dealt with the treatment of eating disorders or type 2 diabetes, or included participants with a secondary or syndromic cause of obesity.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened references, extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and evaluated the quality of the evidence using the GRADE instrument. We contacted study authors for additional information. We carried out meta-analyses according to the statistical guidelines in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 70 RCTs with a total of 8461 participants randomised to either the intervention or control groups. The number of participants per trial ranged from 16 to 686. Fifty-five trials compared a behaviour-changing intervention with no treatment/usual care control and 15 evaluated the effectiveness of adding an additional component to a behaviour-changing intervention. Sixty-four trials were parallel RCTs, and four were cluster RCTs. Sixty-four trials were multicomponent, two were diet only and four were physical activity only interventions. Ten trials had more than two arms. The overall quality of the evidence was low or very low and 62 trials had a high risk of bias for at least one criterion. Total duration of trials ranged from six months to three years. The median age of participants was 10 years old and the median BMI z score was 2.2.Primary analyses demonstrated that behaviour-changing interventions compared to no treatment/usual care control at longest follow-up reduced BMI, BMI z score and weight. Mean difference (MD) in BMI was -0.53 kg/m2 (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.82 to -0.24); P < 0.00001; 24 trials; 2785 participants; low-quality evidence. MD in BMI z score was -0.06 units (95% CI -0.10 to -0.02); P = 0.001; 37 trials; 4019 participants; low-quality evidence and MD in weight was -1.45 kg (95% CI -1.88 to -1.02); P < 0.00001; 17 trials; 1774 participants; low-quality evidence.Thirty-one trials reported on serious adverse events, with 29 trials reporting zero occurrences RR 0.57 (95% CI 0.17 to 1.93); P = 0.37; 4/2105 participants in the behaviour-changing intervention groups compared with 7/1991 participants in the comparator groups). Few trials reported health-related quality of life or behaviour change outcomes, and none of the analyses demonstrated a substantial difference in these outcomes between intervention and control. In two trials reporting on minutes per day of TV viewing, a small reduction of 6.6 minutes per day (95% CI -12.88 to -0.31), P = 0.04; 2 trials; 55 participants) was found in favour of the intervention. No trials reported on all-cause mortality, morbidity or socioeconomic effects, and few trials reported on participant views; none of which could be meta-analysed.As the meta-analyses revealed substantial heterogeneity, we conducted subgroup analyses to examine the impact of type of comparator, type of intervention, risk of attrition bias, setting, duration of post-intervention follow-up period, parental involvement and baseline BMI z score. No subgroup effects were shown for any of the subgroups on any of the outcomes. Some data indicated that a reduction in BMI immediately post-intervention was no longer evident at follow-up at less than six months, which has to be investigated in further trials.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Multi-component behaviour-changing interventions that incorporate diet, physical activity and behaviour change may be beneficial in achieving small, short-term reductions in BMI, BMI z score and weight in children aged 6 to 11 years. The evidence suggests a very low occurrence of adverse events. The quality of the evidence was low or very low. The heterogeneity observed across all outcomes was not explained by subgrouping. Further research is required of behaviour-changing interventions in lower income countries and in children from different ethnic groups; also on the impact of behaviour-changing interventions on health-related quality of life and comorbidities. The sustainability of reduction in BMI/BMI z score and weight is a key consideration and there is a need for longer-term follow-up and further research on the most appropriate forms of post-intervention maintenance in order to ensure intervention benefits are sustained over the longer term.

A Qualitative Examination of Health Barriers and Facilitators Among African American Mothers in a Subsidized Housing Community

Although African American families are at particular risk for obesity and its associated health comorbidities, few interventions have directly targeted low-income members of this group living in subsidized public housing. Using a consensual qualitative research approach, we conducted 11 interviews with African American mothers living in two public housing communities to enhance understanding of their perceived barriers and facilitators to health. Five primary domains emerged, including barriers (access, financial, personal, and neighborhood concerns), resources (personal and community), current behaviors (diet, physical activity, and program participation), definition of health (mental well-being, physical well-being, and health behaviors), and needs/interests in programming (health behavior-specific programs, non–health-related programs, child-focused programming, and qualities of programs and their leaders). Results demonstrate the complex interaction among social, environmental, and personal factors on health behaviors for this priority population, and highlight the need for community members’ involvement in the development of community-based obesity prevention programming.

Parent-only interventions for childhood overweight or obesity in children aged 5 to 11 years

BACKGROUND

Child and adolescent overweight and obesity have increased globally, and are associated with short- and long-term health consequences.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of diet, physical activity and behavioural interventions delivered to parents only for the treatment of overweight and obesity in children aged 5 to 11 years.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search of databases including the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and LILACS as well trial registers. We checked references of identified trials and systematic reviews. We applied no language restrictions. The date of the last search was March 2015 for all databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of diet, physical activity and behavioural interventions delivered to parents only for treating overweight or obesity in children aged 5 to 11 years.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for risk of bias and evaluated overall study quality using the GRADE instrument. Where necessary, we contacted authors for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 20 RCTs, including 3057 participants. The number of participants ranged per trial between 15 and 645. Follow-up ranged between 24 weeks and two years. Eighteen trials were parallel RCTs and two were cluster RCTs. Twelve RCTs had two comparisons and eight RCTs had three comparisons. The interventions varied widely; the duration, content, delivery and follow-up of the interventions were heterogeneous. The comparators also differed. This review categorised the comparisons into four groups: parent-only versus parent-child, parent-only versus waiting list controls, parent-only versus minimal contact interventions and parent-only versus other parent-only interventions.Trial quality was generally low with a large proportion of trials rated as high risk of bias on individual risk of bias criteria.In trials comparing a parent-only intervention with a parent-child intervention, the body mass index (BMI) z score change showed a mean difference (MD) at the longest follow-up period (10 to 24 months) of -0.04 (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.15 to 0.08); P = 0.56; 267 participants; 3 trials; low quality evidence. In trials comparing a parent-only intervention with a waiting list control, the BMI z score change in favour of the parent-only intervention at the longest follow-up period (10-12 months) had an MD of -0.10 (95% CI -0.19 to -0.01); P = 0.04; 136 participants; 2 trials; low quality evidence. BMI z score change of parent-only interventions when compared with minimal contact control interventions at the longest follow-up period (9 to 12 months) showed an MD of 0.01 (95% CI -0.07 to 0.09); P = 0.81; 165 participants; 1 trial; low quality evidence. There were few similarities between interventions and comparators across the included trials in the parent-only intervention versus other parent-only interventions and we did not pool these data. Generally, these trials did not show substantial differences between their respective parent-only groups on BMI outcomes.Other outcomes such as behavioural measures, parent-child relationships and health-related quality of life were reported inconsistently. Adverse effects of the interventions were generally not reported, two trials stated that there were no serious adverse effects. No trials reported on all-cause mortality, morbidity or socioeconomic effects.All results need to be interpreted cautiously because of their low quality, the heterogeneous interventions and comparators, and the high rates of non-completion.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Parent-only interventions may be an effective treatment option for overweight or obese children aged 5 to 11 years when compared with waiting list controls. Parent-only interventions had similar effects compared with parent-child interventions and compared with those with minimal contact controls. However, the evidence is at present limited; some of the trials had a high risk of bias with loss to follow-up being a particular issue and there was a lack of evidence for several important outcomes. The systematic review has identified 10 ongoing trials that have a parent-only arm, which will contribute to future updates. These trials will improve the robustness of the analyses by type of comparator, and may permit subgroup analysis by intervention component and the setting. Trial reports should provide adequate details about the interventions to be replicated by others. There is a need to conduct and report cost-effectiveness analyses in future trials in order to establish whether parent-only interventions are more cost-effective than parent-child interventions.

Evaluating Intervention Programs Targeting Parents to Manage Childhood Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review Using the RE-AIM Framework

Intervention programs targeting parents to manage childhood overweight and obesity have emerged based on parents influence on the health behaviors of their children. The purpose of this review was to systematically evaluate intervention programs targeting parents to manage childhood overweight and obesity using the Reach, Efficacy, Adopt, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. There was a moderate risk of bias across all studies. The overall proportion of studies (n=7) reporting on each dimension of the RE-AIM framework ranged from 78.6% (reach) to 23.8% (maintenance). The majority of intervention programs demonstrated improvement in child BMI. However intervention programs did not reach families of diverse race/ethnicity, were provided by highly trained professionals, and demonstrated high attrition, thus limiting generalizability.

Design of the FRESH study: A randomized controlled trial of a parent-only and parent-child family-based treatment for childhood obesity

Approximately 1 out of 3 children in the United States is overweight or obese. Family-based treatment (FBT) is considered the gold-standard treatment for childhood obesity, but FBT is both staff and cost intensive. Therefore, we developed the FRESH (Family, Responsibility, Education, Support, & Health) study to evaluate the effectiveness of intervening with parents, without child involvement, to facilitate and improve the child's weight status. Targeting parents directly in the treatment of childhood obesity could be a promising approach that is developmentally appropriate for grade-school age children, highly scalable, and may be more cost effective to administer. The current paper describes the FRESH study which was designed to compare the effectiveness of parent-based therapy for pediatric obesity (PBT) to a parent and child (FBT) program for childhood obesity. We assessed weight, diet, physical activity, and parenting, as well as cost-effectiveness, at baseline, post-treatment, and at 6- and 18-month follow-ups. Currently, all participants have been recruited and completed assessment visits, and the initial stages of data analysis are underway. Ultimately, by evaluating a PBT model, we hope to optimize available child obesity treatments and improve their translation into clinical settings.

Recent Updates on the Efficacy of Group Based Treatments for Pediatric Obesity

BACKGROUND

There is limited research on optimal treatment formats for childhood obesity. Group-based interventions are popular, but it is unclear whether outcomes can be obtained without an additional individual component.

AIM

To examine statistically and clinically significant outcomes of recent group-based and mixed-format (group + Individual) pediatric obesity interventions.

METHODS

Effect sizes and magnitudes of weight change were calculated for studies published between January 2013 and September 2014.

RESULTS

Approximately half of the group-based studies reviewed produced significant results compared to control, and effect sizes were small. Mixed-format studies were less likely to include a control group, but those that did evidenced medium to large effects. Magnitudes of weight change post-intervention were generally greater in mixed-format studies than group-only studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Recent studies in pediatric obesity interventions suggest including an individual component in a group-based intervention produces optimal outcomes. Future research should directly compare group-only and mixed formats to confirm this observation.

Design and rationale for NOURISH-T: a randomized control trial targeting parents of overweight children off cancer treatment

Approximately 40% of off-treatment pediatric cancer survivors (PCS) are overweight or obese, which increases their risk for negative long-term physical health complications. Consistent with the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) emphasis on patients transitioning from treatment to cancer survivorship and increasing long-term healthy behaviors in these survivors, we plan to conduct a pilot RCT to address the increasing overweight/obesity rates among PCS by targeting their caregivers as agents for PCS behavior change. We plan to focus on parents' behaviors, attitudes and roles in promoting healthier eating and physical activity (PA) in PCS and adapt an evidence-informed, manualized parent intervention - NOURISH - found to be effective for parents of overweight and obese children and adolescents in reducing child and adolescent BMI. We plan to adapt NOURISH for caregivers of 5-12 year old PCS (6 months-4 years off active cancer treatment). Our pilot feasibility RCT - NOURISH-T (Nourishing Our Understanding of Role modeling to Improve Support for Healthy Transitions) evaluates: 1) the preliminary efficacy of NOURISH-T for PCS, compared with an Enhanced Usual Care (EUC) control condition, and 2) factors to consider to improve future adaptations of the intervention. The project will enroll caregivers of PCS at two pediatric oncology clinics into the 6-week intervention (or EUC) with assessments occurring pre- and post-6 weeks of intervention, and at a 4-month follow-up.

Evidence update on the treatment of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents

Childhood obesity is associated with increased medical and psychosocial consequences and mortality and effective interventions are urgently needed. Effective interventions are urgently needed. This article reviews the evidence for psychological treatments of overweight and obesity in child and adolescent populations. Studies were identified through searches of online databases and reference sections of relevant review articles and meta-analyses. Treatment efficacy was assessed using established criteria, and treatments were categorized as well-established, probably efficacious, possibly efficacious, experimental, or of questionable efficacy. Well-established treatments included family-based behavioral treatment (FBT) and Parent-Only Behavioral Treatment for children. Possibly efficacious treatments include Parent-Only Behavioral Treatment for adolescents, FBT-Guided Self-Help for children, and Behavioral Weight Loss treatment with family involvement for toddlers, children, and adolescents. Appetite awareness training and regulation of cues treatments are considered experimental. No treatments are considered probably efficacious, or of questionable efficacy. All treatments considered efficacious are multicomponent interventions that include dietary and physical activity modifications and utilize behavioral strategies. Treatment is optimized if family members are specifically targeted in treatment. Research supports the use of multicomponent lifestyle interventions, with FBT and Parent-Only Behavioral Treatment being the most widely supported treatment types. Additional research is needed to test a stepped care model for treatment and to establish the ideal dosage (i.e., number and length of sessions), duration, and intensity of treatments for long-term sustainability of healthy weight management. To improve access to care, the optimal methods to enhance the scalability and implementability of treatments into community and clinical settings need to be established.

Motivational interviewing with parents of overweight children: study design and methods for the NOURISH + MI study

There is an urgent need for innovative approaches to pediatric obesity treatment. There is also a demand for targeted strategies that reduce attrition and improve treatment adherence. Intervening exclusively with parents of overweight children is a novel approach with demonstrated efficacy in reducing child body mass index (BMI) percentile. Motivational interviewing (MI), a brief communication style for exploring and resolving ambivalence about behavior change, might enhance treatment engagement when implemented as part of obesity interventions. The aim of this report is to provide the rationale and methods for a novel study of MI with parents in the treatment of their children's overweight. We designed and are currently implementing NOURISH+MI, a randomized controlled trial examining the feasibility and efficacy of an adjunct values-based MI intervention, implemented within a culturally-tailored parent intervention for overweight children ages 5-11 years, NOURISH(+) (Nourishing Our Understanding of Role modeling to Improve Support and Health). Specifically, we are randomly assigning 60 parents to this adjunctive treatment, and investigating if adding two MI sessions prior to the NOURISH(+) group intervention will enhance treatment effects. We will be able to compare NOURISH+MI participants with those from the two NOURISH(+) treatment conditions (NOURISH(+) and control). We hypothesize that children whose parents participate in NOURISH+MI will demonstrate lower attrition and greater adherence with NOURISH(+), ultimately leading to greater treatment effects, compared with children whose parents are randomized to NOURISH(+) or a control group. Findings will contribute to the emerging literature examining the efficacy of MI within pediatric obesity interventions.