Evaluation of Web Sites on Treatment of Childhood and Adolescent Obesity

Shin, Sang Won; Kim, Eun Young; Rho, Young Il; Yang, Eun Seok; Park, Sang Kee; Park, Young Bong; Moon, Kyung Rye

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality and problems of Web sites for management of childhood and adolescent obesity.
METHODS
We evaluated 203 Web sites identified from the search engine, Korean Yahoo, using the word of 'childhood and adolescent obesity'. 203 Web sites were classified according to medical institutions, health information Web sites, beauty shops. etc. We surveyed whether childhood and adolescent obesity distinguished with adult obesity was considered, or not. and researched the unique managements of childhood and adolescent obesity including the cardinal treatment.
RESULTS
Of the 203 Web sites, 157(77.3%) provided detailed information about treatment of obesity, 46(22.7%) provided only simple information about one. The sites providing detailed information were composed of 52.2% of oriental medicine clinics, 35.0% of clinic and hospitals including pediatric hospitals. Distribution of the sites about management of childhood and adolescent obesity distinguished with adult's one was only 23% of oriental medicine clinics, but 93% of childrens hospitals.
CONCLUSION
Without considering the speciality of childhood obesity, inaccurate information are distributing on internet web sites. It is necessary for concern and development of advertizing system on the internet distributing accurate information about treatment of childhood obesity.