Investigating the impact of after-school and summer programs on children's health
Increasing Low-income Children's Access to Healthy Structured Programming to Reduce Obesity
PHASE2 · University of South Carolina · NCT05880901
This study is testing whether after-school and summer programs can help low-income kids in grades K-4 develop healthier habits and reduce obesity.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 480 (estimated) |
| Ages | 5 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of South Carolina (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbia, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05880901 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to address health disparities in pediatric obesity by providing low-income children access to structured after-school programs and summer day camps. It operates on the premise that structured environments can protect against unhealthy behaviors that contribute to obesity. The intervention targets children in grades K-4 who are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, focusing on critical times when children are most vulnerable to weight gain. By offering vouchers for these programs, the study seeks to create healthier routines outside of school hours.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are K-4th graders from low-income families who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.
Not a fit: Patients with intellectual or physical disabilities that limit their mobility may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce obesity rates among low-income children by promoting healthier lifestyles.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that structured programs can positively impact children's health, making this approach promising but not entirely novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * k-4th grader in a partner school * eligible for free and reduced price lunch (a widely recognized indicator of * socioeconomic level and poverty status) * parent that indicates "yes' on an informed consent document for participation in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of an intellectual disability, such as Down Syndrome, Fragile X, Fetal Alcohol * a physical disability, such as wheelchair use, that prevents the ability to ambulate without assistance. * Families who plan to enroll their children in a summer camp or after school program or relocate (i.e., move) during the 14-month period that they participate
Where this trial is running
Columbia, South Carolina
- University of South Carolina — Columbia, South Carolina, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Robert Weaver
- Email: weaverrg@mailbox.sc.edu
- Phone: 8037775605
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Health Status Disparities, Pediatric Obesity, Ethnic Group, Socioeconomic Factors