Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Diet on Weight in Children with Down Syndrome

Effects of Aerobic Exercise With and Without Low Calorie Diet on Adiposity and BMI of Overweight and Obese Children With Down Syndrome

Not applicable Interventional Riphah International University · NCT06943170

This study is testing whether kids with Down syndrome who are overweight can lose weight and improve their health by doing aerobic exercise alone or by combining it with a low-calorie diet.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment22 (estimated)
Ages8 Years to 16 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province)
Trial IDNCT06943170 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the impact of aerobic exercise alone versus aerobic exercise combined with a low-calorie diet on reducing adiposity and improving body mass index (BMI) in children with Down syndrome. Participants aged 8 to 16 years who are overweight or obese will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one will engage in aerobic exercise, while the other will follow the same exercise regimen along with a low-calorie diet. The study will utilize calibrated scales, stadiometers, and waist circumference measurements to assess changes in weight and body composition over a 10-month period. The research is being conducted at a rehabilitation clinic in Lahore, Pakistan.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 8 to 16 years with Down syndrome who are classified as overweight or obese.

Not a fit: Patients with significant co-morbidities, physical disabilities, or severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective strategies for weight management in children with Down syndrome, potentially improving their overall health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise and dietary interventions in similar populations, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age (8-16) years.
* Both Genders (Male and Female).
* BMI-for-age percentile (at or above 85th percentile is overweight, and at or above 95th percentile is considered as obese)
* Children with generally stable health condition, without significant co-morbidities that might affect diet or exercise interventions.
* Consent form signed by parents, along with written approval by the physician.

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of any previous medical disease.
* Previous Participation in any Weight Loss Exercise Program.
* Participants following any specific diet plan from last 6 months.
* Exclusion of children on medication that could affect weight or metabolism.
* Children with physical disabilities that prevent them from safely participating in aerobic exercise.
* Children with dietary restrictions or food allergies.
* Children with severe cognitive impairments that prevent them from engaging in exercise program.

Where this trial is running

Lahore, Punjab Province

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Down SyndromeDown Syndrome, Obesity, Adiposity, Body Mass Index
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.