Outcomes of group-based treatment program with parental involvement for the management of childhood and adolescent obesity

•We conducted a 1-year group-based weight-loss program for obese youth.•The program consisted of an initial in-patient session and five group sessions.•Obesity-related complications are common among obese children and adolescents.•Degree of obesity, insulin resistance, lipids, and transaminases levels improved.•A group-based program is effective in the management of childhood obesity.

ObjectiveAn uncontrolled study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a group-based program on weight control, metabolic profiles, and obesity-related complications in obese youth.MethodsThe program consisted of an initial in-patient session and five group sessions, one, two, three, six, and nine months into the study, providing participants and their parents with information about the consequences of obesity and lifestyle modifications. The severity of obesity and obesity-related complications were evaluated at baseline and 12 months after the intervention. The participants' and their parents' perceptions of the program were assessed.ResultsOf the obese youth recruited (n = 126), 115 completed the study. Their percentage weight for height and percentage body fat decreased significantly (both p < 0.001), and their insulin resistance, lipid profiles, and transaminases levels improved (all p < 0.01). The prevalence of prediabetes, dyslipidemia, and elevated transaminases decreased significantly (all p < 0.05). The participants and their parents perceived the program as valuable.ConclusionA group-based program is effective in managing childhood obesity, improving metabolic profiles, and alleviating certain obesity-related complications.Practice implicationsA group-based program that provides education and raises the awareness of obese children and their parents about the consequences of obesity is an effective model for treating childhood obesity.