Improving retention in pediatric weight management programs

War of Attrition: Predicting Dropout From Pediatric Weight Management

This study is testing a new system to see if it can help keep kids in weight management programs longer so they can get healthier.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 1100 (estimated)
• Ages: 7 Years and up
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Wake Forest University Health Sciences (other)
• Locations: 2 sites (Kansas City, Missouri and 1 other locations)
• Trial ID: NCT04364282 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to address the high dropout rates in pediatric weight management programs, which can range from 27-73%. By utilizing a predictive model called the Outcomes Forecasting System (OFS), the study will collect data on various factors related to child and family dynamics, obesity, and treatment. The research will be conducted across multiple sites, first installing the OFS in three programs and then validating it in a fourth. The ultimate goal is to enhance adherence to treatment and improve health outcomes for children struggling with obesity.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 7-18 years who are obese and have been referred to a participating weight management program, along with their parent or guardian.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with significant developmental challenges or chronic illnesses that impact weight.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce dropout rates in pediatric weight management programs, leading to better health outcomes for children.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using predictive models to improve retention in treatment programs, suggesting that this approach has potential.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* Child is 7-18 years of age
* Participating child has been referred to one of the participating weight management programs, and the family (child-parent dyad) has chosen to participate in said program.
* Participating child is obese (BMI ≥95th percentile for age and sex).
* Participating child provides assent to participation in the research study.
* At least one parent/guardian consents to participate (and consent to child participation).

The parent should be the primary parent accompanying the child to treatment, and the child's primary residence must be with that parent.

- Both members of the parent-child dyad must speak either English or Spanish.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participating child cannot complete measures and study activities (non-verbal, significant developmental and behavioral challenges).
* Participating child has a chronic illness that impacts weight (i.e. cancer).
* Participating child with a genetic condition (i.e. Prader-Willi) that is associated with excessive weight.
* One member of the parent-child dyad refuses to participate in the study or does not wish to complete 6 months of treatment.
* One member of the parent-child dyad is unable to participate in 6 month follow-up data collection.

Where this trial is running

Kansas City, Missouri and 1 other locations

• Children's Mercy Hospital — Kansas City, Missouri, United States (RECRUITING)
• Brenner Children's Hospital — Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Joseph A Skelton, MD, MS — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
• Study coordinator: Caroline B Young, BS

Conditions: Pediatric Obesity, Attrition, Family Research, Weight Loss