Evaluation of a Pilot Hospital-Based Community Program Implementing Fitness and Nutrition Education for Overweight Children

PURPOSE. Evaluate the effect of the Kids Living Fit™ hospital‐based intervention on body mass index (BMI) percentile, adjusted for age (months) and gender in children ages 8–12 years with BMI percentiles ≥ 85. DESIGN AND METHODS. Twelve weekly exercise sessions and three nutrition presentations were held. Nurses recorded BMI and waist circumference at baseline, week 12, and week 24. Participants completed food and activity diaries. RESULTS. Of the 32 participants enrolled, 16 completed all outcome measures and experienced a decrease in average BMI, BMI percentile, and waist circumference between baseline and weeks 12 and 24. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Hospitals can offer exercise and nutrition programs to decrease childhood obesity in their communities.