Understanding why children drop out of weight management programs
Official title: War of Attrition: Predicting Dropout from Pediatric Weight Management
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10647817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why many kids drop out of weight management programs and aims to find ways to keep them engaged, so families can get the support they need to help their children stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | September 23, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $575,273 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NR017639-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10647817 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents aged 0-21 who are enrolled in or considering participation in pediatric weight management programs.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not enrolled in weight management programs or those who do not struggle with obesity may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the reasons behind high dropout rates in pediatric weight management programs, which can range from 27% to 73%. By collecting data and analyzing various factors that contribute to attrition, the study aims to develop a predictive model that can forecast which participants are likely to drop out. This approach will help tailor treatment strategies to better meet the needs of families and improve adherence to weight management programs. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the effectiveness of these programs and ensure that children receive the health benefits they need.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved retention in weight management programs, resulting in better health outcomes for children struggling with obesity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding and addressing dropout factors in health programs can lead to improved retention and outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skelton, Joseph Arnold — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Skelton, Joseph Arnold
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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.