Korean J Pediatr.  2014 Dec;57(12):520-525. 10.3345/kjp.2014.57.12.520.

Lifestyle modifications in an adolescent dormitory: a clinical trial

• Abu-Kishk
• Alumot-Yehoshua M
• Reisler G
• Efrati S
• Kozer E
• Doenyas-Barak K
• Feldon M
• Dagan Z
• Reifen R
• Berkovitch M

• KMID: 2284641
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3345/kjp.2014.57.12.520

Abstract

PURPOSE
Childhood obesity is an increasing public health issue worldwide. We examined dietary patterns among adolescents in a dormitory school, identified obese adolescents and tried to intervene to improve food habits and physical activity.
METHODS
We conducted an experimental prospective longitudinal study based on 36 obese (body mass index [BMI]> or =95th percentile) adolescents (aged 12-18 years) compared with controls (healthy children: normal age-appropriate BMI (BMI< or =85th percentile). Six months' intervention included lifestyle-modification counseling (once a week by a clinical dietician), and an exercise regimen twice a week, 60 minutes each time, instructed by a professional pediatric trainer). Both groups underwent baseline measurements at the beginning of the study and 6 months later (arterial stiffness, blood pressure, pulse, weight and height, hemoglobin, creatinine, liver enzymes, highly sensitive C-reactive protein and complete lipid profile).
RESULTS
Twenty-one participants completed the study. Low compliance from participants, school staff and parents was observed (participation in planned meetings; 71%-83%). BMI significantly decreased from 32.46+/-3.93 kg/m2 to 30.32+/-3.4 kg/m2 (P=0.002) in the study group. Arterial stiffness was not significantly different between the 2 groups and did not change significantly after 6 months' intervention (P=0.494). No significant changes in CRP and lipid profile were observed after the intervention.
CONCLUSION
Making lifestyle modifications among adolescents in a dormitory school is a complex task. Active intervention indeed ameliorates BMI parameters. However, in order to maximize the beneficial effects, a multidisciplinary well-trained team is needed, with emphasis on integrating parents and the school environment.

Keyword

Life style; Obesity; Adolescent; Arterial stiffness

MeSH Terms

Adolescent*
Blood Pressure
C-Reactive Protein
Child
Compliance
Counseling
Creatinine
Food Habits
Humans
Life Style*
Liver
Longitudinal Studies
Motor Activity
Obesity
Parents
Pediatric Obesity
Prospective Studies
Public Health
Vascular Stiffness
C-Reactive Protein
Creatinine