Improving childhood obesity treatment for low-income children
Official title: Implementation of Childhood Obesity Treatment Innovations to Improve Outcomes of Low-Income Children: The Connect for Health II Study
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10657489 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to help kids, especially those from low-income families, manage their weight and stay healthy by using tools for doctors, helpful resources for families, and friendly text messages to encourage good habits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $762,134 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL146782-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10657489 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are low-income children aged 0-11 years who are at risk for obesity and related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not within the low-income bracket or who are older than 11 years may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on implementing innovative strategies to treat childhood obesity, particularly among low-income children. It utilizes a multi-faceted approach that includes electronic health record tools for pediatricians, educational materials for families, and supportive text messages to encourage healthy behaviors. By enhancing the adoption of effective obesity interventions, the study aims to improve health outcomes for children at risk of cardiovascular diseases. The research emphasizes the importance of integrating health information technologies with community outreach to maximize impact.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and reduced obesity rates among low-income children, setting them on a healthier trajectory for life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar multi-level interventions aimed at reducing childhood obesity, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taveras Benavidez, Elsie Mireya — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Taveras Benavidez, Elsie Mireya
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.