A Childhood Obesity Intervention For African American and Latino Children

Abstract Childhood obesity is a major problem in America. The aim of this research translation project was to put into practice an evidence based childhood obesity intervention (Let’s Go! Maine, 5210) in a primary care setting. The rising rates of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents have been accompanied by an increase in adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Data from the Center for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) demonstrates higher rates of obesity in African American and Latino children, with a prevalence rate of 22.4% in Latinos and 20.2% African American children. METHODS: This evidenced based intervention employed a pre and post study design with a convenience sample of ten participants age 10 to 18, identified as having a body mass index (BMI) equal or greater than 85th percentile. Ten adolescents completed the data collection process and a one and half hour weekly educational session along with follow up calls. RESULT: Statistical analysis comparing the pre and posttest answers of the 5210 Healthy Habits questionnaire revealed that the questions can act as a prompt for educational interventions thereby increasing the child’s awareness of healthy habits. CONCLUSION: Findings suggests that although obesity management can be complex, early recognition and intervention of childhood obesity can promote a child’s knowledge about healthy lifestyle and promote healthy food choices leading to improved BMI outcome. Key Words: Child hood obesity, African American and Latino children, Let’s Go! Maine-5 2 1 0 progra