1
|
Ball GDC, O’Neill MG, Rath M, Kebbe M, Perez A, Zenlea I, Ho J. Adolescent and Caregiver Perspectives on Family Navigation to Improve Healthcare Access and Use for Managing Pediatric Obesity. Health Serv Insights 2023; 16:11786329231200863. [PMID: 37772277 PMCID: PMC10524045 DOI: 10.1177/11786329231200863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
We interviewed families to explore their views on the role of family navigation (FN) to improve access to and use of health services for managing pediatric obesity. From March to December, 2020, we conducted individual, structured telephone interviews with adolescents with obesity (13-17 years old) and their caregivers from Edmonton and Calgary, Canada. Among our 37 participants (14 adolescents, 23 caregivers), most (n = 27; 73.0%) reported FN could improve their access to obesity management. Participants recommended several activities to support healthcare access and use, including appointment reminders, evening/weekend appointments, parking/transportation support, and in-clinic childcare, all of which help families to attend appointments over an extended period to support obesity management. Most participants preferred FN be offered by healthcare professional 'navigators' who were approachable, empathic, and compassionate since issues regarding health and obesity can be sensitive, emotional topics to discuss. Overall, families supported integrating FN into multidisciplinary pediatric obesity management to improve healthcare access and use by navigators who apply a range of practical strategies and relational skills to enhance long-term access and adherence to care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoff DC Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Marcus G O’Neill
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Mitchell Rath
- Alberta Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Cumming Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Maryam Kebbe
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Women’s Health Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Arnaldo Perez
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ian Zenlea
- Institute for Better Health, Trillium Health Partners, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Josephine Ho
- Alberta Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Cumming Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hojati A, Alesaeidi S, Izadi S, Nikniaz A, Farhangi MA. MyKid'sNutrition mobile application trial: a randomized controlled trial to promote mothers' nutritional knowledge and nutritional status of preschool children with undernutrition-a study protocol. Trials 2023; 24:544. [PMID: 37596662 PMCID: PMC10439575 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07503-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood malnutrition is a crucial public health issue in developing countries. Mothers' nutritional knowledge significantly affects children's nutritional status. It also appears that mothers with low health literacy are unable to adequately meet their children's nutritional needs because they do not clearly understand their children's nutrition and malnutrition status. METHODS This randomized controlled trial aims to describe the development and study protocol of the MyKid'sNutrition application, a smartphone-based intervention for mothers of preschool (2-6 years old) children. The application contains several contents on children's healthy eating, childhood underweight, children's loss of appetite, and child growth assessment. As part of the MyKid'sNutrition trial, a total of 116 participants will be randomized 1:1 either to (a) treatment as usual and MyKid'sNutrition or (b) treatment as usual alone. The results of this trial will be based on changes in growth indicators and mothers' nutritional knowledge, attitude, and practice within the groups and the differences between them. DISCUSSION Due to their widespread availability throughout society, smartphones can be used to deliver educational content on a large scale at a low cost. In addition, they can provide novel ways for patients to receive support. Hence, it is essential to conduct research studies on these types of interventions. MyKid'sNutrition application offers dietary solutions for such nutritional problems as underweight, loss of appetite, and malnutrition in children. Meanwhile, it provides detailed instructions on how to interact with the child. TRIAL REGISTRATION IRCT.ir IRCT20140907019082N11. Registered on February 19, 2022.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hojati
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sogol Alesaeidi
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Imam Hossein Hospital, Resident of Pediatric Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Saeideh Izadi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Laparoscopy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Nikniaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ball GDC, Sharma AK, Moore SA, Metzger DL, Klein D, Morrison KM. Measuring severe obesity in pediatrics using body mass index-derived metrics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization: a secondary analysis of CANadian Pediatric Weight management Registry (CANPWR) data. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:3679-3690. [PMID: 37264183 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05039-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
To examine the (i) relationships between various body mass index (BMI)-derived metrics for measuring severe obesity (SO) over time based the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) references and (ii) ability of these metrics to discriminate children and adolescents based on the presence of cardiometabolic risk factors. In this cohort study completed from 2013 to 2021, we examined data from 3- to 18-year-olds enrolled in the CANadian Pediatric Weight management Registry. Anthropometric data were used to create nine BMI-derived metrics based on the CDC and WHO references. Cardiometabolic risk factors were examined, including dysglycemia, dyslipidemia, and elevated blood pressure. Analyses included Pearson correlations, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and receiver operator characteristic area-under-the-curve (ROC AUC). Our sample included 1,288 participants (n = 666 [52%] girls; n = 874 [68%] white). The prevalence of SO varied from 60-67%, depending on the definition. Most BMI-derived metrics were positively and significantly related to one another (r = 0.45-1.00); ICCs revealed high tracking (0.90-0.94). ROC AUC analyses showed CDC and WHO metrics had a modest ability to discriminate the presence of cardiometabolic risk factors, which improved slightly with increasing numbers of risk factors. Overall, most BMI-derived metrics rated poorly in identifying presence of cardiometabolic risk factors. Conclusion: CDC BMI percent of the 95th percentile and WHO BMIz performed similarly as measures of SO, although neither showed particularly impressive discrimination. They appear to be interchangeable in clinical care and research in pediatrics, but there is a need for a universal standard. WHO BMIz may be useful for clinicians and researchers from countries that recommend using the WHO growth reference. What is Known: • Severe obesity in pediatrics is a global health issue. • Few reports have evaluated body mass index (BMI)-derived metrics based on the World Health Organization growth reference. What is New: • Our analyses showed that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention BMI percent of the 95th percentile and World Health Organization (WHO) BMI z-score (BMIz) performed similarly as measures of severe obesity in pediatrics. • WHO BMIz should be a useful metric to measure severe obesity for clinicians and researchers from countries that recommend using the WHO growth reference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, 4-515 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 - 87th Ave, AB, T6G 1C9, Edmonton, Canada.
| | - Atul K Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Sarah A Moore
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Daniel L Metzger
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Doug Klein
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katherine M Morrison
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gehring ND, Birken CS, Belanger S, Bridger T, Chanoine JP, Gibson WT, Hadjiyannakis S, Haines J, Hamilton J, Haqq AM, Henderson M, Ho J, Irvine B, Legault L, Luca P, Maguire J, McPherson AC, Morrison K, Wahi G, Weksberg R, Zwaigenbaum L, Ball GDC. Severe obesity and global developmental delay in preschool children: Findings from a Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program study. Paediatr Child Health 2023; 28:107-112. [PMID: 37151929 PMCID: PMC10156927 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxac109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The co-presentation of severe obesity (SO) and global developmental delay (GDD) in Canadian preschool children has not been examined. However, SO and GDD may require syndromic diagnoses and unique management considerations. Objectives To determine (1) minimum incidence; (2) age of onset and risk factors; and (3) health care utilization for co-presenting SO and GDD. Methods Through the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP), a monthly form was distributed to participants from February 2018 to January 2020 asking for reports of new cases of SO and GDD among children ≤5 years of age. We performed descriptive statistics for quantitative questions and qualitative content analysis for open-ended questions. Results Forty-seven cases (64% male; 51% white; mean age: 3.5 ± 1.2 years) were included. Age of first weight concern was 2.5 ± 1.3 years and age of GDD diagnosis was 2.7 ± 1.4 years. Minimum incidence of SO and GDD was 3.3 cases per 100,000 for ≤5 years of age per year. Identified problems included school and/or behavioural problems (n = 17; 36%), snoring (n = 14; 30%), and asthma/recurrent wheeze (n = 10; 21%). Mothers of 32% of cases (n = 15) had obesity and 21% of cases (n = 10) received neonatal intensive care. Microarray was ordered for 57% (n = 27) of children. A variety of clinicians and services were accessed. As reported by CPSP participants, challenges faced by families and health service access were barriers to care. Conclusion Children with SO and GDD have multiple comorbidities, and require early identification and referral to appropriate services. These cases may also benefit from additional testing to rule out known genetic obesity syndromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole D Gehring
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Catherine S Birken
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stacey Belanger
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montreal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tracey Bridger
- Discipline of Pediatrics, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Chanoine
- Division of Endocrinology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - William T Gibson
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Jess Haines
- Department of Family Relations & Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jill Hamilton
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea M Haqq
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mélanie Henderson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montreal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Josephine Ho
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Laurent Legault
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Paola Luca
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathon Maguire
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy C McPherson
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Bloorview Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine Morrison
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gita Wahi
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rosanna Weksberg
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Bloorview Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lonnie Zwaigenbaum
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Briatico D, Reilly KC, Tucker P, Irwin JD, Johnson AM, Pearson ES, Bock DE, Burke SM. Using the RE-AIM framework to evaluate the feasibility of a parent-focused intervention targeting childhood obesity. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:38. [PMID: 36915150 PMCID: PMC10009980 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01248-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood obesity remains a serious public health concern. Community-based childhood obesity treatment interventions have the potential to improve health behaviors and outcomes among children, but require thorough evaluation to facilitate translation of research into practice. The purpose of the current study was to determine the feasibility of a community-based, parent-focused childhood obesity intervention ("C.H.A.M.P. Families") using the RE-AIM framework, an evaluation tool for health interventions. METHODS A single-group, non-randomized, repeated measures feasibility study was conducted. Participants (n = 16 parents/caregivers of 11 children with obesity) completed a 13-week parent-focused education intervention. The intervention consisted of three main components: (a) eight group-based (parent-only) education sessions; (b) eight home-based (family-centered) activities; and (c) two group-based follow-up support sessions for parents and children. The five dimensions of RE-AIM-reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance-were assessed using various measures and data sources (e.g., child, parent/caregiver, costing, census) obtained throughout the study period. Outcome variables were measured at baseline, mid-intervention, post-intervention, and at a 6-month follow-up. RESULTS Overall, the C.H.A.M.P. Families intervention reached approximately 0.09% of eligible families in London, Ontario. Despite the small number, participants were generally representative of the population from which they were drawn, and program participation rates were high (reach). Findings also suggest that involvement in the program was associated with improved health-related quality of life among children (effectiveness/individual-level maintenance). In addition, the intervention had high fidelity to protocol, attendance rates, and cost-effectiveness (implementation). Lastly, important community partnerships were established and maintained (adoption/setting-level maintenance). CONCLUSIONS Based on a detailed and comprehensive RE-AIM evaluation, the C.H.A.M.P. Families intervention appears to be a promising parent-focused approach to the treatment of childhood obesity. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN Registry, Study ID ISRCTN 10752416 . Registered 24 April 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Briatico
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristen C Reilly
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patricia Tucker
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Canada
| | - Jennifer D Irwin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew M Johnson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Erin S Pearson
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dirk E Bock
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Office for Child and Adolescent Medicine, Windisch, Aargau, Switzerland
| | - Shauna M Burke
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cohen J, Alexander S, Signorelli C, Williams K, Sim KA, Chennariyil L, Baur LA. Clinician and healthcare managers' perspectives on the delivery of secondary and tertiary pediatric weight management services. J Child Health Care 2023; 27:128-144. [PMID: 34719287 DOI: 10.1177/13674935211052148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Clinician and healthcare managers' (HCMs) views on weight management service delivery are imperative for informing the nature of future services to treat children with obesity. This qualitative study used semi-structured focus groups and one-on-one semi-structured interviews. Participants were 27 clinicians (medical, nursing, or allied health) and nine HCMs (senior executives in the hospital) who worked in six secondary or tertiary pediatric weight management clinics across five public hospitals in New South Wales, Australia. Clinicians reported that using a combination of group and individual sessions improved engagement with families and reduced attrition rates. Clinicians and HCMs recommended integrating clinics into community centers and providing specific programs for sub-groups, such as children from culturally and linguistically diverse communities or children with developmental delay. Many clinicians and HCMs stressed the importance of pediatric weight clinics using a holistic approach to treatment. To improve the likelihood of future funding for pediatric weight management clinics and to optimize models of care, centers must embed research into their practice. Addressing common barriers to current pediatric weight management services and designing future models of care based on key stakeholders' preferences is critical to achieving optimal care provision for this high-risk population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Cohen
- Weight Management Services, 8538The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's & Children's Health, 7800The UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shirley Alexander
- Weight Management Services, 8538The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Christina Signorelli
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's & Children's Health, 7800The UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, 63623Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Kathryn Williams
- Charles Perkins Centre, 4334The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Nepean Family Metabolic Health Service, 223690Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, Kingswood, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kyra A Sim
- Charles Perkins Centre, 4334The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Obesity Prevention and Management, 222415Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Lenina Chennariyil
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's & Children's Health, 7800The UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, 36666Canterbury Hospital, Campsie, NSW, Australia
| | - Louise A Baur
- Weight Management Services, 8538The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, 4334The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ball GDC, O’Neill MG, Noor R, Alberga A, Azar R, Buchholz A, Enright M, Geller J, Ho J, Holt NL, Lebel T, Rosychuk RJ, Tarride JE, Zenlea I. A multi-center, randomized, 12-month, parallel-group, feasibility study to assess the acceptability and preliminary impact of family navigation plus usual care versus usual care on attrition in managing pediatric obesity: a study protocol. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:14. [PMID: 36691103 PMCID: PMC9868519 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01246-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric obesity management can be successful, but some families discontinue care prematurely (i.e., attrition), limiting treatment impact. Attrition is often a consequence of barriers and constraints that limit families' access to obesity management. Family Navigation (FN) can improve access, satisfaction with care, and treatment outcomes in diverse areas of healthcare. To help our team prepare for a future effectiveness trial, the objectives of our randomized feasibility study are to (i) explore children's and caregivers' acceptability of FN and (ii) examine attrition, measures of study rigor and conduct, and responses to FN + Usual Care vs Usual Care by collecting clinical, health services, and health economic data. METHODS In our 2.5-year study, 108 6-17-year-olds with obesity and their caregivers will be randomized (1:1) to FN + Usual Care or Usual Care after they enroll in obesity management clinics in Calgary and Mississauga, Canada. Our Stakeholder Steering Committee and research team will use Experience-Based Co-Design to design and refine our FN intervention to reduce families' barriers to care, maximizing the intervention dose families receive. FN will be delivered by a navigator at each site who will use logistical and relational strategies to enhance access to care, supplementing obesity management. Usual Care will be offered similarly at both clinics, adhering to expert guidelines. At enrollment, families will complete a multidisciplinary assessment, then meet regularly with a multidisciplinary team of clinicians for obesity management. Over 12 months, both FN and Usual Care will be delivered virtually and/or in-person, pandemic permitting. Data will be collected at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months post-baseline. We will explore child and caregiver perceptions of FN acceptability as well as evaluate attrition, recruitment, enrolment, randomization, and protocol integrity against pre-set success thresholds. Data on clinical, health services, and health economic outcomes will be collected using established protocols. Qualitative data analysis will apply thematic analysis; quantitative data analysis will be descriptive. DISCUSSION Our trial will assess the feasibility of FN to address attrition in managing pediatric obesity. Study data will inform a future effectiveness trial, which will be designed to test whether FN reduces attrition. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial was registered prospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov (# NCT05403658 ; first posted: June 3, 2022).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoff D. C. Ball
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, 4-515 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87th Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9 Canada
| | - Marcus G. O’Neill
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, 4-515 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87th Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9 Canada
| | - Rafat Noor
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, 4-515 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87th Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9 Canada
| | - Angela Alberga
- grid.410319.e0000 0004 1936 8630Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Applied Physiology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Rima Azar
- grid.260288.60000 0001 2169 3908Psychobiology of Stress & Health Lab, Department of Psychology, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB Canada
| | - Annick Buchholz
- grid.34428.390000 0004 1936 893XDepartment of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON Canada
| | | | - Josie Geller
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Josephine Ho
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Nicholas L. Holt
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XFaculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | - Tracy Lebel
- Patient and Family Partner, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | - Rhonda J. Rosychuk
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, 4-515 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87th Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9 Canada
| | - Jean-Eric Tarride
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - Ian Zenlea
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gehring ND, Kebbe M, Rathwell S, Perez A, Peng C, Zendher E, Ho J, Ball GDC. Physician-related predictors of referral for multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management: a population-based study. Fam Pract 2021; 38:576-581. [PMID: 33755099 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmab019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is recommended that primary care-based physicians refer children with overweight and obesity to multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management, which can help to improve weight and health. OBJECTIVE To determine predictors of referral to multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management. METHODS This retrospective, population-level study included physicians who could refer 2-17 years old with a body mass index ≥85th percentile to one of three multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management clinics in Alberta, Canada. Physician demographic and procedural data were obtained from Practitioner Claims and Provider Registry maintained by Alberta Health from January 2014 to December 2017. Physician characteristics were compared based on whether they did or did not refer children for obesity management. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models analysed associations between physician characteristics and referral making. RESULTS Of the 3863 physicians (3468 family physicians, 395 paediatricians; 56% male; 49.3 ± 12.2 years old; 22.3 ± 12.6 years since graduation) practicing during the study period, 1358 (35.2%) referred at least one child for multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management. Multivariable regression revealed that female physicians (versus males) [odds ratio (OR): 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.46-1.93; P < 0.0001], paediatricians (versus family physicians) (OR: 4.89, 95% CI: 3.85-6.21; P < 0.0001) and urban-based physicians (versus non-urban-based physicians) (OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.79-2.65; P < 0.0001) were more likely to refer children for multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management. CONCLUSIONS Approximately one-third of family physicians and paediatricians referred children for multidisciplinary paediatric obesity management. Strategies are needed to improve referral practices for managing paediatric obesity, especially among male physicians, family physicians and non-urban-based physicians as they were less likely to refer children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole D Gehring
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Maryam Kebbe
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Sarah Rathwell
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Arnaldo Perez
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Chenhui Peng
- Pediatric Centre for Weight and Health, Stollery Children's Hospital, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Emily Zendher
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Josephine Ho
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zahn K, Ibrahim Q, Ball GDC, Buchholz A, Hamilton J, Ho J, Laberge AM, Legault L, Tremblay MS, Zenlea I, Thabane L, Chanoine JP, Morrison KM. Variability in How Canadian Pediatric Weight Management Clinics Deliver Care: Evidence from the CANadian Pediatric Weight Management Registry. Child Obes 2021; 17:420-426. [PMID: 33978453 DOI: 10.1089/chi.2021.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Clinical practice guidelines for pediatric weight management highlight the importance of family-based behavioral strategies to enhance health behaviors. Little is known, however, of how clinics implement these programs. The study objectives were to (1) describe how Canadian pediatric weight management clinics deliver care and (2) evaluate change in services over time. Methods: The CANadian Pediatric Weight management Registry (CANPWR) is a multisite prospective cohort study of participants enrolled in a Canadian pediatric weight management clinic. Clinical program characteristics (e.g., referral process, inclusion criteria, funding, program characteristics, patient interaction methods, and follow-up) were collected at the start and end of the CANPWR recruitment period (2015-2019). Results: Entrance into the nine clinics varied with limiting criteria based on geographic proximity, age, weight status, and presence of health conditions. The clinics varied in size (50-220 new patients/year). The planned length of intervention varied widely, from 10 weeks to open-ended (median 2 years). Behavior modification strategies were delivered with a mix of individual and group-based sessions and most were delivered in person, complemented by use of virtual care. Over time, more clinics saw patients under the age of 5 years and all clinics defined a program length. Conclusion: Although all clinics offered family-based behavioral weight management services, these varied considerably, especially in program entrance criteria, size of clinic, and the length of intervention. The influence of the variability in delivery of services on health outcomes will be addressed in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Zahn
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre for Metabolism, Obesity, and Diabetes Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Quazi Ibrahim
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Annick Buchholz
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jill Hamilton
- Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Josephine Ho
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Laberge
- Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine and Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Laurent Legault
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mark S Tremblay
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ian Zenlea
- Institute for Better Health, Trillium Health Partners and Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre for Metabolism, Obesity, and Diabetes Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Chanoine
- Pediatric Endocrinology, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Katherine M Morrison
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre for Metabolism, Obesity, and Diabetes Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kebbe M, Perez A, Buchholz A, Scott SD, McHugh TLF, Dyson MP, Ball GDC. Health care providers' weight management practices for adolescent obesity and alignment with clinical practice guidelines: a multi-centre, qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:850. [PMID: 32912259 PMCID: PMC7488259 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05702-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) include evidence-based recommendations for managing obesity in adolescents. However, information on how health care providers (HCPs) implement these recommendations in day-to-day practice is limited. Our objectives were to explore how HCPs deliver weight management health services to adolescents with obesity and describe the extent to which their reported practices align with recent CPGs for managing pediatric obesity. Methods From July 2017 to January 2018, we conducted a qualitative study that used purposeful sampling to recruit HCPs with experience in adolescent weight management from multidisciplinary, pediatric weight management clinics in Edmonton and Ottawa, Canada. Data were collected using audio-recorded focus groups (4–6 participants/group; 60–90 min in length). We applied inductive, semantic thematic analysis and the congruent methodological approach to analyze our data, which included transcripts, field notes, and memos. Qualitative data were compared to recent CPGs for pediatric obesity that were published by the Endocrine Society in 2017. Of the 12 obesity ‘treatment-related’ recommendations, four were directly relevant to the current study. Results Data were collected through three focus groups with 16 HCPs (n = 10 Edmonton; n = 6 Ottawa; 94% female; 100% Caucasian), including dietitians, exercise specialists, nurses, pediatricians, psychologists, and social workers. We identified three main themes that we later compared with CPG recommendations, including: (i) discuss realistic expectations regarding weight management (e.g., shift focus from weight to health; explore family cohesiveness; foster delayed vs instant gratification), (ii) personalize weight management (e.g., address personal barriers to change; consider developmental readiness), and (iii) exhibit non-biased attitudes and practices (e.g., de-emphasize individual causes of obesity; avoid making assumptions about lifestyle behaviors based on weight). Based on these qualitative findings, HCPs applied all four CPG recommendations in their practices. Conclusions HCPs provided practical insights into what and how they delivered weight management for adolescents, which included operationalizing relevant CPG recommendations in their practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Kebbe
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 - 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - A Perez
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 - 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - A Buchholz
- Centre for Healthy Active Living, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - S D Scott
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - T-L F McHugh
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - M P Dyson
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 - 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - G D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 - 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gates A, Elliott SA, Shulhan-Kilroy J, Ball GDC, Hartling L. Effectiveness and safety of interventions to manage childhood overweight and obesity: An Overview of Cochrane systematic reviews. Paediatr Child Health 2020; 26:310-316. [PMID: 34336060 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxaa085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood overweight and obesity are associated with adverse physical, social, and psychological outcomes. Objectives We conducted an overview of Cochrane systematic reviews on the effectiveness and risks of interventions to treat overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. Methods In June 2019, we searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for eligible reviews. The primary outcomes were change in adiposity (body mass and body mass index [BMI] z-score) and adverse events. Two reviewers screened studies and one reviewer extracted and another verified data. Two reviewers assessed methodological quality and reached consensus. Data were synthesized narratively. Results We included seven Cochrane reviews published between 2011 and 2017 containing evidence from 167 randomized controlled trials with 21,050 participants. Lifestyle and behavioural interventions more effectively reduced weight compared with no intervention, usual care, or another behavioural treatment (three reviews, low-to-moderate certainty). Parent-child lifestyle and behavioural interventions more effectively reduced BMI z-score compared with no intervention (one review, low certainty). Decision support tools for healthcare providers more effectively limited increases in BMI z-score compared with usual care (one review, moderate certainty). Pharmacologic treatments combined with behavioural modification more effectively reduced adiposity compared with placebo or usual care (one review, low certainty), but the risk of adverse events was greater than non-pharmacologic therapy. Surgical interventions (e.g., LAP-BAND) combined with behavioural modification more effectively reduced adiposity compared with behavioural modification alone (one review, low certainty). Those who underwent surgery reported a higher number of adverse events compared with those treated with lifestyle modification. Conclusions There is low-certainty evidence that lifestyle and behavioural interventions, pharmacologic interventions, and surgical interventions are effective in weight management for children with overweight and obesity. Safety data remain lacking across all intervention modalities. Future research should focus on implementation strategies. Further, a focus on overall well-being may be more beneficial than weight management specifically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison Gates
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Sarah A Elliott
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta.,Cochrane Child Health, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Jocelyn Shulhan-Kilroy
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Lisa Hartling
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta.,Cochrane Child Health, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kebbe M, Perez A, Buchholz A, McHugh TLF, Scott SD, Richard C, Dyson MP, Ball GDC. Conversation Cards for Adolescents©: a patient-centered communication and behavior change tool for adolescents with obesity and health care providers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2020.1765126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Kebbe
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Arnaldo Perez
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Annick Buchholz
- bCentre for Healthy Active Living, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tara-Leigh F. McHugh
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Caroline Richard
- Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Science, Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Michele P. Dyson
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Geoff D. C. Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Farnesi BC, Perez A, Holt NL, Morrison KM, Gokiert R, Legault L, Chanoine JP, Sharma AM, Ball GDC. Continued attendance for paediatric weight management: A multicentre, qualitative study of parents' reasons and facilitators. Clin Obes 2019; 9:e12304. [PMID: 30775853 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although prolonged engagement in paediatric weight management (PWM) is associated with positive treatment outcomes, little is currently known about enablers of long-term programme attendance. The purpose of our study was to explore families' reasons for and facilitators of their continued attendance at health services for PWM. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted with parents of children (10-17 year old; body mass index ≥85th percentile) who completed the active phase of treatment in one of four Canadian multidisciplinary clinics for PWM. Interview data were recorded digitally, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Parents' (n = 40) reasons for continued clinic attendance included ongoing concerns (eg, parental concern about their child's health), actual and expected benefits from treatment (eg, lifestyle improvements) and perceived quality of care (eg, structured, comprehensive, tailored health services). Several logistical and motivational factors contributed to continued attendance, including flexible work schedules, flexible appointment times, financial resources and children's motivation for treatment. Helping families address treatment barriers and ensuring that weight management services meet families' treatment expectations are promising strategies to enhance retention in PWM to optimize health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Arnaldo Perez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Nicholas L Holt
- Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Katherine M Morrison
- Department of Pediatrics and Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Rebecca Gokiert
- Faculty of Extension, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Laurent Legault
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Chanoine
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Arya M Sharma
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
The Team to Address Bariatric Care in Canadian Children (Team ABC3): Team Grant Research Proposal. BMC Res Notes 2017; 10:301. [PMID: 28992812 PMCID: PMC6389219 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2506-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe obesity (SO) in Canadian children remains poorly understood. However, based on international data, the prevalence of SO appears to be increasing and is associated with a number of psychosocial, bio-mechanical, and cardiometabolic health risks. The purpose of our national Team to Address Bariatric Care in Canadian Children (Team ABC3) is to develop and lead a series of inter-related studies to enhance the understanding and management of SO in Canadian children and adolescents (0-18 years). METHODS/DESIGN From 2015 to 2019, Team ABC3 will conduct a series of projects at the regional, provincial, and national levels using multiple methods and study designs to respond to key knowledge gaps by (i) generating evidence on the prevalence of SO and its impact on health services utilization in children using existing Canadian data sources from primary care settings, (ii) exploring contemporary definitions of SO that link with health outcomes, (iii) comparing and contrasting health risks across the continuum of SO, (iv) understanding potential barriers to and facilitators of treatment success in children with SO, and (v) examining innovative lifestyle and behavioral interventions designed to successfully manage SO in children and their families. Furthermore, to examine the impact of innovative interventions on the management SO, we will (vi) evaluate whether adding a health coach, who provides support via text, email, and/or phone, improves children's ability to adhere to a web-based weight management program and (vii) test the feasibility and impact of a community-based weight management program for pre-school children with SO and their parents that combines group-based parenting sessions with in-home visits. DISCUSSION Our research aligns with national priorities in obesity research, brings together leading scientists, clinicians, and stakeholders from across Canada, and will inform health services delivery throughout the country to provide the best care possible for children with SO and their families.
Collapse
|
15
|
Dhaliwal J, Perez AJ, Holt NL, Gokiert R, Chanoine JP, Morrison KM, Legault L, Sharma AM, Ball GD. Why do parents discontinue health services for managing paediatric obesity? A multi-centre, qualitative study. Obes Res Clin Pract 2017; 11:335-343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2016.10.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
16
|
Gabrielli S, Dianti M, Maimone R, Betta M, Filippi L, Ghezzi M, Forti S. Design of a Mobile App for Nutrition Education (TreC-LifeStyle) and Formative Evaluation With Families of Overweight Children. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2017; 5:e48. [PMID: 28408361 PMCID: PMC5408135 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.7080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nutrition and diet apps represent today a popular area of mobile health (mHealth), offering the possibility of delivering behavior change (BC) interventions for healthy eating and weight management in a scalable and cost-effective way. However, if commercial apps for pediatric weight management fail to retain users because of a lack of theoretical background and evidence-based content, mHealth apps that are more evidence-based are found less engaging and popular among consumers. Approaching the apps development process from a multidisciplinary and user-centered design (UCD) perspective is likely to help overcome these limitations, raising the chances for an easier adoption and integration of nutrition education apps within primary care interventions. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the design and development of the TreC-LifeStyle nutrition education app and the results of a formative evaluation with families. METHODS The design of the nutrition education intervention was based on a multidisciplinary UCD approach, involving a team of BC experts, working with 2 nutritionists and 3 pediatricians from a primary care center. The app content was derived from evidence-based knowledge founded on the Food Pyramid and Mediterranean Diet guidelines used by pediatricians in primary care. A formative evaluation of the TreC-LifeStyle app involved 6 families of overweight children (aged 7-12 years) self-reporting daily food intake of children for 6 weeks and providing feedback on the user experience with the mHealth intervention. Analysis of the app's usage patterns during the intervention and of participants' feedback informed the refinement of the app design and a tuning of the nutrition education strategies to improve user engagement and compliance with the intervention. RESULTS Design sessions with the contribution of pediatricians and nutritionists helped define the nutrition education app and intervention, providing an effective human and virtual coaching approach to raise parents' awareness about children's eating behavior and lifestyle. The 6 families participating in the pilot study found the app usable and showed high compliance with the intervention over the 6 weeks, but analysis of their interaction and feedback showed the need for improving some of the app features related to the BC techniques "monitoring of the behavior" and "information provision." CONCLUSIONS The UCD and formative evaluation of TreC-LifeStyle show that nutrition education apps are feasible and acceptable solutions to support health promotion interventions in primary care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gabrielli
- Fondazione Bruno Kessler, High Impact Initiative on Health & Wellbeing, Trento, Italy
| | - Marco Dianti
- Fondazione Bruno Kessler, High Impact Initiative on Health & Wellbeing, Trento, Italy
| | - Rosa Maimone
- Fondazione Bruno Kessler, High Impact Initiative on Health & Wellbeing, Trento, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Stefano Forti
- Fondazione Bruno Kessler, High Impact Initiative on Health & Wellbeing, Trento, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Avis JLS, Komarnicki A, Farmer AP, Holt NL, Perez A, Spence N, Ball GDC. Tools and resources for preventing childhood obesity in primary care: A method of evaluation and preliminary assessment. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2016; 99:769-775. [PMID: 26742609 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2015.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To pilot-test a mixed methods approach to evaluate tools and resources (TRs) that healthcare providers (HCPs) use for preventing childhood obesity in primary care, and report a preliminary descriptive assessment of commonly-used TRs. METHODS This mixed methods study included individual, semi-structured interviews with purposefully-sampled HCPs in Alberta, Canada; interviews were digitally recorded and analyzed thematically (phase I). Two independent reviewers used three assessment checklists to evaluate commonly-used TRs (phase II). HCPs provided feedback on our coding scheme and checklist data (phase III). RESULTS Three themes described how HCPs (n=19) used TRs: purpose of use (e.g., clinical support), logistical factors (e.g., accessibility), and decision to use (e.g., suitability). The latter theme overlapped with constructs of suitability on the checklists. Overall, participants used 15 TRs, most of which scored 'average' on the checklists. CONCLUSION Phases I and II provided unique insights on the evaluation of TRs used for preventing childhood obesity. Criteria on the checklists overlapped with HCPs' perceptions of TR suitability, but did not reflect logistical factors that influenced their use of TRs. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Developers of TRs should collaborate with HCPs to ensure that subjective and objective criteria are used to optimize TR suitability in the primary care setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L S Avis
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Angela Komarnicki
- Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutrition Science, Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Anna P Farmer
- Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutrition Science, Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada; School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Nicholas L Holt
- Faculty of Physical Education & Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Arnaldo Perez
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Nicholas Spence
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutrition Science, Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada; Pediatric Centre for Weight and Health, Stollery Children's Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Avis JLS, Holt NL, Maximova K, van Mierlo T, Fournier R, Padwal R, Cave AL, Martz P, Ball GDC. The Development and Refinement of an e-Health Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment for Parents to Prevent Childhood Obesity in Primary Care. Telemed J E Health 2015; 22:385-94. [PMID: 26451901 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2015.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nearly one-third of Canadian children can be categorized as overweight or obese. There is a growing interest in applying e-health approaches to prevent unhealthy weight gain in children, especially in settings that families access regularly. Our objective was to develop and refine an e-health screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) for parents to help prevent childhood obesity in primary care. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our SBIRT, titled the Resource Information Program for Parents on Lifestyle and Education (RIPPLE), was developed by our research team and an e-health intervention development company. RIPPLE was based on existing SBIRT models and contemporary literature on children's lifestyle behaviors. Refinements to RIPPLE were guided by feedback from five focus groups (6-10 participants per group) that documented perceptions of the SBIRT by participants (healthcare professionals [n = 20], parents [n = 10], and researchers and graduate trainees [n = 8]). Focus group commentaries were transcribed in real time using a court reporter. Data were analyzed thematically. RESULTS Participants viewed RIPPLE as a practical, well-designed, and novel tool to facilitate the prevention of childhood obesity in primary care. However, they also perceived that RIPPLE may elicit negative reactions from some parents and suggested improvements to specific elements (e.g., weight-related terms). CONCLUSIONS RIPPLE may enhance parents' awareness of children's weight status and motivation to change their children's lifestyle behaviors but should be improved prior to implementation. Findings from this research directly informed revisions to our SBIRT, which will undergo preliminary testing in a randomized controlled trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L S Avis
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nicholas L Holt
- 2 Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Katerina Maximova
- 3 School of Public Health, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Trevor van Mierlo
- 4 Evolution Health Systems Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,5 Business School, University of Reading, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Fournier
- 4 Evolution Health Systems Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,5 Business School, University of Reading, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Raj Padwal
- 6 Department of Medicine, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew L Cave
- 7 Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Patricia Martz
- 8 Public Health and Wellness Branch , Health Services Division, Ministry of Health, Government of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Geoff D C Ball
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada .,9 Pediatric Centre for Weight and Health, Stollery Children's Hospital , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|