A multidisciplinary intervention programme for overweight and obese children in deprived areas.

Background: GPs can refer obese children living in deprived areas to multidisciplinary programmes for a weight loss intervention, though the effectiveness of these local initiatives targeted to this specific group is unknown.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Kids4Fit intervention in deprived areas on child's weight status.

Methods: Design and setting: cohort study, including a waiting list control period. Subjects: children (N = 154) aged 6-12 years, who signed up for the Kids4Fit intervention programme, led by a dietitian, physiotherapist and child psychologist were included. Measurements of standardized body mass index (BMI-z) and waist circumference were taken at start of the waiting list period, at start and at the end of the intervention and after 52 weeks. Mixed model analyses (random effects models) were used, expressed in effect per week [β with 95% confidence interval (CI)], compared to the waiting list expectancy over the 52-week study period.

Results: Mixed model analyses showed a non-significant trend towards a lower BMI-z up to 52 weeks after start of Kids4Fit (β: -0.0024; 95% CI: -0.0053; 0.0004), compared to the waiting list expectancy. A significantly lower waist circumference was found over time compared to the waiting list expectancy (β: -0.0558; 95% CI: -0.0950; -0.0166). No differences were found in lifestyle and health-related quality of life.

Conclusion: A local multidisciplinary intervention programme in deprived areas is effective in reducing waist circumference of obese children, compared to a waiting list expectancy, but no significant changes in lifestyle and quality of life were shown.