Investigating how energy balance behaviors affect childhood obesity risk factors

Role of energy balance behaviors in modifying biobehavioral risk factors for childhood obesity

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11004295

This study is looking at how a child's genes and their eating habits work together to affect their risk of becoming overweight, especially in kids aged 5 to 7 from families with fewer resources, to find ways to help them develop healthier eating habits.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004295 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the complex relationship between genetic predispositions and energy balance behaviors in children aged 5 to 7, particularly those from low-resource families. It aims to understand how behaviors related to eating, such as appetite and eating patterns, can modify the risk of obesity despite genetic factors. By assessing children's genetic risk scores and their eating behaviors, the study seeks to identify key behavioral drivers that could help prevent childhood obesity. The findings may lead to targeted interventions that promote healthier eating habits in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 5 to 7 from low-resource backgrounds who may be at risk for obesity.

Not a fit: Children outside the age range of 5 to 7 or those not from low-resource backgrounds may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into effective strategies for preventing childhood obesity by modifying eating behaviors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the interplay between genetic and behavioral factors in obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 2026-06-13 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.