Abstract
Background The use of physical activity tracker devices has increased within the general population. However, there is limited medical literature studying the efficacy of such devices in adolescents with obesity. In this study, we explored the feasibility of using wearable activity tracking devices as an adjunct intervention on adolescents with obesity. Methods Randomized controlled pilot trial evaluated the feasibility (attrition ≤50%) of an activity tracking intervention (ATI) and its effects on weight loss in adolescents with obesity enrolled in an adolescent weight management clinic (AWMC). Outcomes included feasibility (attrition rate) and absolute change in BMI. Differences between groups at 6, 12, and 18 weeks were examined. Results Forty-eight participants were enrolled in the study. Eighteen subjects were randomly assigned to the ATI group and 30 to control. The average age was 14.5 years. Overall, the majority of participants were Hispanic (56%). Sexes were equally distributed. The average baseline BMI was 37.5 kg/m2. At the study conclusion, the overall attrition rate was 52.1%, 44.4% in the ATI group versus 56.6% in the control group, with a differential attrition of 12.2%. The ATI and control groups each showed an absolute decrease in BMI of −0.25 and −2.77, respectively, with no significant differences between the groups. Conclusion The attrition rate in our study was >50%. Participation in the AWMC by the ATI and control groups resulted in maintenance of BMI and body weight for the study duration. However, the use of an activity tracking device was not associated with greater weight loss. This trial is registered with NCT03004378.
Highlights
Over the past few decades, adolescent obesity has developed into an overwhelming public health issue in the United States with 21% of adolescents suffering from obesity [1,2,3,4]
Study enrollment occurred for 12 months. e study was approved by the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) institutional review board (#16-0241)
Forty-eight participants were enrolled in the study, and baseline demographics and comorbidities were evaluated (Table 1). e average age at baseline evaluation was 14.5 (±1.7) years, with no difference between treatment and control
Summary
Over the past few decades, adolescent obesity has developed into an overwhelming public health issue in the United States with 21% of adolescents suffering from obesity [1,2,3,4]. Among Hispanics, Blacks, and Whites, the obesity prevalence in adolescents is 26%, 22%, and 14%, respectively [3]. Studies suggest that various demographic factors can lead to variability in weight loss [5,6,7]. Despite increased clinical efforts and national policies, the weight of the average child in the United States increased by 5 kilograms (kg) in the past three decades [8]. An estimated decrease by 1% of adolescents who suffer from overweight/obesity could save
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