Impact of COVID-19 policies on children's health and obesity over time

COVID-19 Policies: Impact Over Time on Child Health, Obesity, and Disparities

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10896084

This study looks at how COVID-19 rules, like school closures and social distancing, have changed kids' eating habits and activity levels, focusing on families in Maryland with children aged 3-15, to see how these changes might affect their health over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896084 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how COVID-19 policies, such as school closures and social distancing, have affected children's health behaviors and obesity rates over time. By examining families with children aged 3-15 in Maryland, the study collects data on diet, physical activity, and family routines before and after the pandemic. It aims to understand disparities in health outcomes based on race, socio-economic status, and location, using a combination of surveys and objective measurements. The research will also analyze the long-term effects of these policies on children's health and healthcare costs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are families with children aged 3-15 living in Maryland, particularly those affected by COVID-19 policies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have children or whose children are outside the age range of 3-15 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions to support children's health and prevent obesity in the aftermath of the pandemic.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that examining the impacts of public health policies on child health can yield valuable insights, making this approach both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.