Feasibility of a Multidisciplinary and Culturally Adapted Pediatric Weight Management Program for Latino Families: Results From the Vidas Activas y Familias Saludables Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective: To determine the feasibility of a pediatric weight management program for low-income Latino families.

Methods: A pretest-posttest pilot study was conducted among 60 Latino children, aged 4-9, who were overweight/obese (body mass index-for-age ≥85th percentile). The 10-week group-based community program addressed diet, exercise, and behavior modification. Demand was assessed through recruitment and attendance, acceptability using postintervention surveys with participants, and limited efficacy testing of participant anthropometrics and cardiometabolic markers.

Results: Overall 65% of families were retained for follow-up. All families reported feeling more confident in making healthier food choices and would participate in the program again. Pre/post intervention testing found statistically significant decreases (P < .05) in body mass index for age z score, waist circumference, and % body fat.

Conclusions and implications: This culturally adapted group intervention for Latino families was acceptable and shows promise for improved health status, although it needs to be replicated with a larger group and longer follow-up.

Keywords: Latino; culturally-adapted; family-based; pediatric obesity; pilot study.