Results of a multi-level intervention to prevent and control childhood obesity among Latino children: The Aventuras para niños study

Background: Community-based interventions are needed to reduce the burden of childhood obesity. Purpose: To evaluate the impact of a multi-level promotora-based (Community Health Advisor) intervention to promote healthy eating and physical activity and prevent excess weight gain among Latino children. Methods: Thirteen elementary schools were randomized to one of four intervention conditions: individual/family level (Family-only), school/community level (Community-only), combined (Family + Community), or a measurement-only condition. Participants were 808 Latino parents and their children enrolled in kindergarten through 2nd grade. Measures included parent and child body mass index (BMI) and a self-administered parent survey that assessed several parent and child behaviors. Results: There were no significant intervention effects on children’s BMI z-score. The family intervention changed several obesity-related child behaviors (e.g., fruit/vegetable consumption) and these were mediated by changes in parenting variables (e.g., parent monitoring). Conclusion: A promotora-based behavioral intervention was efficacious at changing parental factors and child obesity-related health behaviors