Effects of Healthy Change Intervention on Childhood Obesity Prevention in Mexico

Abstract

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of the Healthy Change intervention on maternal perceptions of their child’s body weight (MPCW), weight status as overweight-obese (OW-OB), and associated variables (child’ BMI, maternal feeding style, and obesogenic home environment) in Mexico. MethodsRandomized control trial consisted of two arms: the intervention group received Healthy Change, and control group received Hygiene and Accident Prevention. Data were collected at baseline and at the end of the program via self-administered questionnaires by mothers and anthropometric measurement in children. ResultsThe proportion of mothers who accurately identified their children’s weight status increased at study endpoint in both groups. The intervention group also showed a shift of mothers feeding style towards an authoritative style (17.4 vs 26.2, P < 0.001) and favorable changes family nutrition and physical activity environment scores on family eating practices, healthy home environment, family and child’s physical activity. ConclusionsThe Healthy Change Intervention contributed to an increased recognition of children’s overweight status, a shift toward a maternal authoritative feeding style, and favorable changes in family nutrition and physical activity environment. Funding SourcesThe National Council for Science and Technology (CONACYT)