Weight Children Research Articles

Exploring the role of genetic variability and exposure to bisphenols and parabens on excess body weight in Spanish children

Gene-environment interaction studies are emerging as a promising tool to shed light on the reasons for the rapid increase in excess body weight (overweight and obesity). We aimed to investigate the influence of several polymorphisms on excess weight in Spanish children according to a short- and long-term exposure to bisphenols and parabens, combining individual approach with the joint effect of them. This case-control study included 144 controls and 98 cases children aged 3-12 years. Thirty SNPs in genes involved in obesity-related pathways, xenobiotic metabolism and hormone systems were genotyped using the GSA microchip technology and qPCRs with Taqman® probes. Levels of bisphenols and parabens in urine and hair were used to assess short- and long-term exposure, respectively, via UHPLC-MS/MS system. LEPR rs9436303 was identified as a relevant risk variant for excess weight (ORDom:AAvsAG+GG=2.65, p<0.001), and this effect persisted across exposure-stratified models. For long-term exposure, GPX1 rs1050450 was associated with increased excess weight at low single paraben exposure (ORGvsA=2.00, p=0.028, p-interaction=0.016), whereas LEPR rs1137101 exhibited a protective function at high co-exposure (ORDom:AAvsAG+GG=0.17, p=0.007, p-interaction=0.043). ESR2 rs3020450 (ORDom:GGvsAG+AA=5.17, p=0.020, p-interaction=0.028) and CYP2C19 rs4244285 (ORDom:GGvsAG+AA=3.54, p=0.039, p-interaction=0.285) were identified as predisposing variants at low and high co-exposure, respectively. In short-term exposure, higher odds were observed for INSIG2 rs7566605 at high bisphenol exposure (ORCvsG=2.97, p=0.035, p-interaction=0.017) and for GSTP1 rs1695 at low levels (ORDom:AAvsAG+GG=5.38, p=0.016, p-interaction=0.016). At low and medium co-exposure, SH2B1 rs7498665 (ORAvsG=0.17, p=0.015, p-interaction=0.085) and MC4R rs17782313 (ORAvsG=0.10, p=0.023, p-interaction=0.045) displayed a protective effect, whereas ESR2 rs3020450 maintained its contributing role (ORGvsA=3.12, p=0.030, p-interaction=0.010). Our findings demonstrate for the first time that understanding the genetic variation in excess weight and how the level of exposure to bisphenols and parabens might interact with it, is crucial for a more in-depth comprehension of the complex polygenic and multifactorial aetiology of overweight and obesity.

Economic disadvantage during childhood, obesity, and diabetes across three birth cohorts of older Mexicans.

Diabetes prevalence has increased markedly in Mexico. We examined the individual and joint contributions of economic disadvantage during childhood (EDDC) and elevated body weight on diabetes prevalence in three cohorts of Mexican adults. Data on those 60-69 years old from the 1930-39, 1940-49, and 1950-59 birth cohorts in Waves 1 (2001), 3 (2012), and 5 (2018) of the Mexican Health and Aging Study were used. EDDC was defined as the absence of a toilet in the household before age 10. Body mass status was defined using self-reported perceived body image at age 50. Diabetes was based on respondent reports. Supplementary analyses using HbA1c as a criterion for diabetes were conducted. A regression-decomposition approach was implemented. Logistic regression models included adjustments for sociodemographic characteristics and access to medical care. Diabetes prevalence was 23% overall and 11%, 25%, and 26% in the 1930-39, 1940-49, and 1950-59 cohorts, respectively. EDDC declined across successive cohorts, while the prevalence of overweight/obesity at age 50 increased. EDDC and overweight/obesity were associated with higher odds of reporting diabetes. A scenario that eliminates disadvantaged EDDC reduced diabetes prevalence by 11% in a pooled sample, while eliminating overweight/obesity reduced it by 30%. Overweight/obesity explained 42% of the rise in diabetes prevalence between the 1930-39 and 1950-59 cohorts. Improvement in EDDC explained 18% of the rise in diabetes prevalence between 1930-39 and 1950-59 cohorts. High body weight across Mexican birth cohorts seemed to offset the potential benefits from improvements in childhood conditions on adult diabetes risk.

Childhood-to-adulthood body size trajectory and cancer risk: a prospective cohort study

Abstract Background While excess weight in adulthood and childhood has been associated with increased cancer risk, the link between childhood-to-adulthood body size trajectories and cancer risk requires further investigation. Methods We used data from the UK Biobank, a prospective population-based cohort study. The main exposure was childhood-to-adulthood body size trajectory, constructed from self-reported body at age 10 (categories: thinner, average, and plumper than average) and measured body mass index (BMI) at recruitment (normal weight, overweight, and obese). Primary outcome was obesity-related cancer (13 different cancer types). Results During a median follow-up of 11.7 years, 21,289 participants developed obesity-related cancers. Having a larger body size at age 10 was strongly associated with being overweight or obese in adulthood. Compared to participants with average childhood to normal adulthood body size trajectory, all trajectories ending in overweight or obesity in adulthood were strongly associated with an increased risk of obesity-related cancers. The strength of the association was mostly determined by adulthood BMI, and similar patterns were observed for colorectal, endometrial, kidney, pancreatic and esophageal cancer. However, a larger body size in childhood was associated with a lower risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. Conclusions Although a larger body size in childhood predisposes to overweight and obesity in adulthood, it does not necessarily predispose to an increased obesity-related cancer risk if measures to maintain a healthy weight are taken in adulthood. Key messages • While larger body size in childhood predisposes individuals to overweight and obesity in adulthood, maintaining a healthy weight in adulthood may help mitigate the risk of obesity-related cancers. • Our findings highlight the importance of preventing and reducing overweight and obesity in adulthood for primary cancer prevention.

Predictors of high blood pressure in children from 6 to 11 years: The PREDI cohort study

Abstract Background Hypertension is an important cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Brazil that affects approximately 30% of the adult population and accounts for nearly 50% of CVD-related deaths in the country. Identifying the main predictors of high blood pressure (BP) during childhood will help prevent the development of other CVDs in adulthood and deaths. This study aimed to estimate the effect of biological, demographic, and socioeconomic characteristics on the child’s BP at 6, 9 and 11 years of age. Methods Cohort study conducted with 181 children in Joinville city, southeastern Brazil. Individual data were collected during three follow-ups (2016, 2021, and 2023) in a private room of the family’s home. BP was measured by the auscultatory method. Poisson regression analysis adjusted for important covariates was used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of maternal and child weight status, demographic, and socioeconomic characteristics on the child’s BP at ages 6, 9 and 11. Results The prevalence of high BP in children at ages 6, 9 and 11 was 26.5%, 20.4% and 3.0%, respectively. Pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the child’s BMI were associated with high BP over the period investigated. The risk of children having high diastolic BP from 6 to 11 years of age was 6% higher (RR = 1.06; 95%CI 1.01, 1.11) when mothers had pre-pregnancy BMI ≥25 kg/m2, even after adjusting for child BMI. For each one kg/m2 increase in child BMI, the risk of children having high systolic BP pressure increased by 14% (RR = 1.14; 95%CI 1.05, 1.23), even after adjusting for pre-pregnancy BMI. Conclusions Pre-pregnancy excess body weight and increased child BMI were associated with high BP in children from 6 to 11 years of age. Addressing pre-pregnancy excess body weight and overweight in childhood, combined with BP monitoring from the age of six, are actions that can prevent the development of CVDs in adulthood, thus reducing a serious global public health problem. Key messages • Encouraging parents to monitor their children’s BP is essential to prevent associated chronic diseases throughout life. • Identifying children with altered blood pressure is an important public health indicator.

Unlocking Health Literacy: investigating Parental Health Literacy and Child Weight Outcomes

Abstract Background While parental health literacy (HL) is widely recognized as crucial for child health, research on its impact on children’s weight-related outcomes remains limited. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the associations between parental HL and children’s anthropometric measurements, with a focus on child BMI Z-score and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Methods As part of a cluster randomized trial in primary schools serving vulnerable populations, 735 children (51.7% boys, mean age 7.7 years) participated. Parental HL was assessed using the HLS-Q12 questionnaire, comprising 12 items. Health literacy levels, standardized from 0 to 100, were categorized into ‘inadequate,’ ‘problematic,’ ‘sufficient,’ and ‘excellent’ HL. General HL and three specific domains-health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare-were computed. Children’s weight, height, and BMI were measured following standardized procedures. Regression analyses examined HL’s impact on BMI Z-scores and WHtR. Results Parents with higher HL in disease prevention and health promotion had children with significantly lower BMI Z-scores, even after adjusting for parental education and children’s sex sex [-0.010 (-0.18; -0.0001) and -0.10 (-0.019; 0.01). Similar associations were found for WHtR [-0.0004 (-0.001; -0.0001)]. Parents with excellent HL in general and health promotion had significantly lower WHtR [-0.027 (-0.046; -0.008)] and BMI Z-score [-0.74 (-1.2; -0.28)]. Conclusions This study highlights the significant role of parental health literacy in shaping children’s weight-related outcomes. Higher levels of parental HL in disease prevention and health promotion were linked to lower BMI Z-scores and WHtR in children, independent of parental education and children’s sex. Enhancing parental HL, alongside promoting healthy behaviors and environments for children, could lead to more effective approaches for addressing this public health issue. Key messages • Parental health literacy is associated with children’s weight outcomes, emphasizing the need for HL-focused interventions. • Higher parental HL is associated with lower child BMI Z-scores and waist-to-height ratios, highlighting potential HL’s role in combating childhood obesity.

Growth Status of Bangladeshi Children in Functional Constipation: Experience From A Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Constipation is one of the common complaints of children with long-term hazardous consequences. It is a frequent cause of hospital visit in both primary and specialized care which needs proper evaluation and management. Recently in few studies, impairment of growth status has been reported as a result of functional constipation. But the relation is not well evaluated, especially in the pediatric population of our country. Aim: To assess the growth status of Bangladeshi children in functional constipation. Methods: This analytical study was conducted at the department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, BSMMU, Dhaka. A total 150 children aged 2-18 years were enrolled in this study. Children were divided into two groups, 75 having functional constipation (FC) and 75 healthy children with no constipation. Samples were collected randomly from pediatric out-patient department of BSMMU with consent of parents and child’s approval. Diagnosis of functional constipation was made by Rome IV criteria. Children with any red flag sign, chronic disease and on treatment of constipation were excluded from the study. Growth status (weight, height &amp; BMI) was evaluated by using growth charts. Data collected in semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS 23.0. Results: We evaluated 75 constipated children with the mean age of 7.61±3.50 years and 75 healthy children with the mean age of 7.40±3.88 years. The mean weight of children with functional constipation was 22.8±10.01 kg, mean height 117.7 ±18.4 cm and BMI 15.6±2.3 kg/m2. The mean weight of children with no constipation was 28.6± 13.72 kg, mean height 124.49±23.3 cm and BMI 18.11±2.9 kg/m2,demonstrated significant difference between two sets. In functional constipation group, on weight for age and height for age chart, 28% and 24% children were below the 3rd centile respectively and 18.6% children had BMI below 5th centile. All these parameters (weight, height, BMI) were statistically significant in compare to children without constipation and p value is &lt;.05. Presenting features of functional constipation were anorexia (64%), abdominal pain (73.3%), hard stool (84%), blood mixed hard stool (13.3%) and nausea (34%). Conclusion: Growth impairment occurs in children with functional constipation in comparison to children without constipation. Children aged 2 to 18 years with functional constipation may have decelerated weight, height and BMI growth. And this observation needs further large-scale multicenter study for ensuring optimal growth of children with constipation. J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll 2023; 15(1): 73-77

Evaluating the Economic Impact of the PedAMINES App in Reducing Medication Errors in Pediatric Emergency Care: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis.

The administration of drugs in pediatric emergency care is a time-consuming process and is associated with a higher occurrence of medication errors compared with adult care. This is attributed to the intricacies of administration, which involve calculating doses based on the child's weight or age. To mitigate the occurrence of adverse drug events (ADEs), the PedAMINES (Pediatric Accurate Medication in Emergency Situations; Geneva University Hospitals) mobile app has been developed. This app offers a step-by-step guide for preparing and administering pediatric drugs during emergency interventions by automating the dose calculation process. Although previous simulation-based randomized controlled trials conducted in emergency care have demonstrated the efficacy of the PedAMINES app in reducing drug administration errors, there is a lack of evidence regarding its economic implications. This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of implementing the PedAMINES app for 4 emergency drugs: epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and midazolam. The economic evaluation was conducted by combining hospital data from 2019, previous trial outcomes, information extracted from existing literature, and PedAMINES maintenance costs. The cost per avoided medication error was calculated, along with the number of administrations needed to achieve a positive return on investment. Subsequently, Monte Carlo simulations were used to identify the key parameters contributing to result uncertainty. The study revealed the number of preventable errors per administration for the 4 examined drugs: 0.513 for epinephrine, 0.484 for norepinephrine, 0.500 for dopamine, and 0.671 for midazolam. The cost-effectiveness ratios per ADE prevented were computed as follows: US $4808 for epinephrine, US $9705 for norepinephrine, US $6957 for dopamine, and US $2074 for midazolam. Accounting for the economic impact of ADEs, the analysis estimated that 16 administrations of epinephrine, 17 of norepinephrine and dopamine, and 13 of midazolam would be required to attain a positive return on investment. This corresponds to roughly one-third of the annual administrations at a major university hospital in Switzerland. The primary factors influencing the uncertainty in the estimated cost per ADE include the cost of maintenance of the app, the likelihood of an ADE resulting from an administration error, and the frequency of underdosing in the trial's control group. A dedicated mobile app presents an economically viable solution to alleviate the health and economic burden of drug administration errors in in-hospital pediatric emergency care. The widespread adoption of this app is advocated to pool costs and extend the benefits on a national scale in Switzerland.

Пути оптимизации антропометрических параметров у детей с фармакорезистентной эпилепсией, получающих кетогенную диетотерапию

Ketogenic diet (KD) whilst being an effective method of diet therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is nevertheless accompanied by a significant number of side effects that include the possibility for the delayed physical development in pediatric patients. The problem is multifactorial and is primarily associated with the non-physiological nature of the ketogenic diet itself. Foreign studies on the KD effect on the physical development in children are contradictory and there are none domestic ones. The purpose of this research was to study the dynamics of anthropometric parameters in children with DRE against the background of KD and to assess the possibilities of the alimentary factor in its improvement. Materials and methods used: single-center retrospective cohort study had been carried out on the basis of the Russian Federal Research Centre for Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety (Moscow, Russia) in 2016-2024. The study included patients with an established diagnosis of DRE against the background of KD aged 1 to 18 y/o. Patients were monitored for 24 months as follows: quarterly during the first year and semiannually during the second year of observation, using anthropometric, clinical-laboratory and clinical-instrumental research methods. Results: by the 3rd month of KD, out of 174 pediatric patients, the diet was effective in 105 (60%); by 12th month, 100% control over attacks was achieved in 11 (6%). Analysis of anthropometric parameters made it possible to establish that at the initial point of observation, in accordance with the z-score of the body mass index (BMI), 108 (64%) had normal nutritional status, 22 (13%) had malnutrition and 40 (24%) were overweight/obese. When studying the dynamics of weight and height indicators of children who were on KD throughout the observation period, it was found that the median BMI z-score statistically significantly changed upward (p=0.047), which was largely due to growth retardation, with a decrease in the height/age z-score throughout the observation period (p&lt;0.001). It was found that the protein component of the diet, as well as the level of ketonemia, have a significant impact on the dynamics of the BMI z-score in KD patients. The amount of protein in the diet at 6% to 7% of the energy value contributed to the maintenance of optimal growth parameters in children within this research. Conclusion: the significance of the BMI indicator in assessing the nutritional status over KD decreases against the background of growth retardation. Taking into account the value of the protein/energy indicator when calculating nutrition helps in maintaining of the physical development rate in such patients.

Drugs used in psychiatry causing an increase in body weight in children-a review.

Body weight gain is a prevalent adverse effect observed in psychiatric medication therapy. With the notable increase in mental health diagnoses among children and adolescents over the last decade, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of medications associated with weight gain poses an additional risk for obesity development. This study aimed to identify psychiatric drugs that may induce weight gain in children as a side effect. Twenty-nine publications were included in this systematic review, investigating the effects of nineteen different drugs on children's weight. The majority of these drugs belonged to atypical antipsychotics and anticonvulsants. Nearly all included articles reported that the examined substances resulted in weight gain in children. As childhood obesity has become a significant problem with various metabolic, psychological and social consequences, it is crucial to carefully consider therapy options. In addition to evaluating effectiveness, it is important to also assess the potential for weight gain. Clinicians and nutrition specialists should individually evaluate patients' nutritional needs, evaluate obesity risk, and provide appropriate dietary guidance to minimalize the risk of weight gain.

Planning policies to restrict fast food and inequalities in child weight in England: a quasi-experimental analysis.

England has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in Europe. To promote a healthier food environment in 2015, Gateshead Council in North East England introduced planning guidelines effectively banning any new fast-food outlets. Our aim was to investigate whether this policy led to any reductions in childhood overweight and obesity prevalence and the inequalities in these outcomes. We used data from the National Child Measurement Programme, the Food Standards Agency Food Hygiene Rating Scheme data, and the Office of National Statistics between 2012 and 2020. We estimated a difference-in-differences model employing propensity score matching to identify a control group. We found no significant change in population-level childhood overweight and obesity in Gateshead compared with control areas. In subgroup analysis by area-level deprivation, we found that the quintile of deprivation with the highest proportion of fast-food outlets had a statistically significant reduction of 4.8% in the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity compared with control areas. Restricting fast-food outlets in areas with a high concentration of such outlets as part of a package of policies to reduce childhood obesity may help to reduce prevalence and inequalities in childhood overweight and obesity.

Associations of Neighborhood Food Retail Environments with Weight Status in a Regional Pediatric Health System.

Background: There have been mixed findings on the relationships between childhood obesity and macroscale retail food environments. The current study investigates associations of the neighborhood retail food environment with changes in children's weight status over 6 years in the Kansas City Metropolitan area. Methods: Anthropometrics and home addresses were collected during routine well-child visits in a large pediatric hospital (n = 4493; >75% were Black or Latinx children). Children had measures collected during two time periods ([Time 1] 2012-2014, [Time 2] 2017-2019). Establishment-level food environment data were used to determine the number of four types of food outlets within a 0.5-mile buffer from the children's residence: supermarkets/large grocery stores, convenience stores/small grocery stores, limited-service restaurants, and full-service restaurants. Children who moved residences between periods were "movers" (n = 1052). Associations of baseline and changes in food environment status with Time 2 weight status were assessed using mixed-effects models. Results: Movers who experienced no change in the number of convenience stores or small grocery stores within a 0.5-mile of their home had increased likelihoods of having overweight/obesity and less favorable BMIz changes, compared with movers who experienced a decrease in convenience stores/small grocery stores within a 0.5-mile distance. No associations were observed among nonmovers. Conclusion: Findings suggest that moving to an area with fewer unhealthy retail food outlets (e.g., convenience stores) is associated with a lower risk of obesity in children. Future research is needed to determine whether larger-scale changes to the retail food environment within a neighborhood can support children's healthy weight.

Association of childhood obesity or weight change with early-onset follicular occlusion triad among children.

The effects of childhood obesity or weight gain on the development of early-onset follicular occlusion triad (FOT) among children, which includes hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), acne conglobata (AC), and dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (DCS), remain unknown. To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) or its changes and early-onset FOT development. This nationwide population-based longitudinal cohort study included a cohort of 2,012,928 Korean children who underwent two consecutive health examinations at 30-36 months and 42-48 months of age between 2009 and 2020. The BMI and its changes derived during health screenings at 30-36 and 42-48 months. We performed multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses to estimate the risk of early-onset FOT, including HS, AC, and DCS. During the follow-up, 1,283 FOT, including 143 HS, 1,068 AC, and 72 DCS, events were identified. Children with obesity were at an elevated risk of early-onset FOT compared to those with a normal weight (FOT: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-1.84; HS: aHR 2.30, 95% CI 1.39-3.82; AC: aHR 1.36, 95% CI 1.07-1.73). BMI gain was correlated with an elevated risk of early-onset FOT, particularly HS, whereas BMI loss was linked to a decreased risk of early-onset FOT, especially HS. Children who became obese had an increased early-onset FOT risk (aHR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07-2.14) compared to those who maintained a normal weight. Children who reduced from obese to normal weight exhibited a decreased risk of early-onset FOT (FOT: aHR 0.41, 95% CI 0.17-0.96, P for trend=0.02; HS: P for trend=0.05) compared to obese children who retained their weight. Childhood obesity was associated with an elevated risk of early-onset FOT, including HS and AC. Weight gain was correlated with an increased risk of early-onset FOT, especially HS, while weight loss was associated with a decreased risk of early-onset FOT, particularly HS. Implementing purposeful weight-reduction strategies may be helpful in preventing early-onset FOT development.

Use of cast index and three-point index in paediatric both bone forearm fractures: a prospective study

Introduction The majority of paediatric both bone forearm fractures are treated with manipulative reductions and casting; loss of reduction is one of the most commonly reported complications. We aimed to assess the role of cast index and 3-point index as predictor of outcome of a successful closed reduction in distal both bones forearm fractures.Materials and methods This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics, Kalpana Chawala Government Medical College in Karnal to assess the role of cast index and 3-point index as predictor of outcome of a successful closed reduction in distal both bones forearm fractures. In the present study, 55 patients 16 years old were included irrespective of sex with distal both bones forearm fractures, managed by closed reduction and casting were included.Results Fracture reduction failure was observed in 32.7 % of the patients. Both three-point index and cast index were found to be significantly higher in patients with reduction failure. It was observed that at 2 weeks Area under curve (ROC Curve) for Cast index and Three point index was 0.72 and 0.85 respectively. At 4 weeks, Area under curve for Cast index and Three point index was 0.77 and 0.84 respectively and at 6 weeks 0.74 and 0.86 respectively. Thus, in the present study, CI and 3PI had similar predictability for fracture reduction failure.Discussion There are a few limitations of our study: We could not observe the patients for a longer period of time to know re-modelling in the long term. We did not take in to consideration the severity of fracture, type of anesthesia used (conscious sedation versus General Anesthesia) and the fracture configuration while assessing the outcomes. We also did not collect information about anthropometric parameters like child weight and diameter of the forearm.Conclusion The three-point index and cast index are clinically useful tools to assess the quality of cast molding following closed reduction of pediatric forearm fractures and to predict re-displacement in distal forearm fractures.

Sharing the motherload: A review and development of the CO-Parent conceptual model for early childhood obesity prevention.

Fathers remain under-represented in early childhood obesity prevention research and interventions, despite growing evidence that paternal biopsychosocial factors and behaviors from pre- and post-conception can influence lifelong offspring health. Informed by a literature review of high-quality evidence, "CO-Parent" (childhood obesity-Parent) is a new conceptual model underpinned by couple interdependence theory and a socioecological framework. Literature was searched for the concepts parental AND weight-related behaviors AND child weight or weight-related behaviors, in databases including MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Global Health, Scopus, and SocINDEX. Prior evidence syntheses were prioritized as source data to inform model development. "CO-Parent" illustrates the interdependent and independent effects of maternal and paternal weight, weight-related behaviors, and well-being, across preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, and the early years on child weight-related behaviors and weight up to age five. The influences of public policy, social, environmental, economic, community, and other complex modifiable mediating factors are included in the model. The "CO-Parent" conceptual model paves the way for a paradigm shift by recognizing fathers as key figures in early childhood obesity prevention initiatives, encouraging them to "share the motherload." It highlights both the independent and interdependent roles fathers play in the epidemiology of obesity starting from preconception. CO-Parent also provides the foundations necessary to guide future theory and research to be more inclusive of fathers to further understanding of the independent and interdependent influences of parents in early childhood obesity prevention.

Exploring the impact of stimulant medications on weight in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), prevalent in 5% of children worldwide, impacts academic performance and often coexists with psychiatric disorders. Psychostimulant medications are primary treatments for ADHD, enhancing dopamine to reduce symptoms. However, dopamine increase may cause appetite loss. This pioneering study in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) explores psychostimulant effects on weight in children diagnosed with ADHD, aiming to uncover unique regional characteristics and contributing factors to weight changes. This retrospective cohort study assessed data from electronic medical records from 2017 to 2022, aiming to assess the impact of psychostimulants on weight in children aged 6-18 years. Inclusion criteria covered psychostimulant-treated and untreated patients with ADHD. Statistical analysis, involving longitudinal data methods aimed to demonstrate significant weight differences. Data from 107 pediatric patients diagnosed with ADHD were analyzed, with 86 meeting inclusion criteria. Most patients were male (80.2%). ADHD presentations varied, and methylphenidate immediate release was the most prescribed stimulant medication. Patients experienced initial weight loss followed by overall gain over 12 months. Coexisting conditions, maternal factors, family history, and correlations with autism spectrum disorder were explored. This study provides valuable insights into the effects of psychostimulant medications on the weight of children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD in the UAE. It suggests avenues for future research, emphasizing extended follow-ups to understand long-term psychostimulant effects, nuanced examinations of age and gender, and exploring interactions with comorbidities. Despite limitations, the research provides insights into ADHD medication effects, guiding personalized treatment approaches for pediatric populations.

The MapMe Body Scales: Validity and Reliability of a Biometrically Accurate, Photorealistic Set of Child Body Size Scales.

It is vital to identify children whose weight status means that they may benefit from medical or behavioural support, but adult visual judgements of child weight status are inaccurate, and children are seldom routinely weighed and measured. Consequently, there is a need for validated visual tools for use in training, communication, and interventions relating to child weight. This paper presents validation data for a set of innovative photo-realistic colour body size scales depicting boys and girls aged 4-5 and 10-11. Each age- and gender-specific scale consists of 7 figures based on three-dimensional (3D) scans of 388 children to accurately represent the change in body size caused by changing adiposity. To assess scale validity, 238 adult participants (105 men, 132 women, 1 non-binary individual) undertook two tasks: rating figure adiposity using a visual analogue scale and ranking figures in ascending order of adiposity (OSF Reference: gdp9j). Participants accurately estimated the relative adiposity of each figure, i.e., they were able to tell the difference between figures and correctly rank them by size. This demonstrates scale validity for use in body size tasks. One hundred and fifty-one participants also provided 3-day test-retest data, which demonstrates excellent short-term reliability. Overall, the MapMe child body size scales provide an anthropometrically accurate, valid, reliable, and usable tool for size-related tasks and communication with adults regarding child weight.

Association of parental eating styles and markers of food intake and nutritional status of Brazilian children

We analysed the relationships between maternal feeding styles and children’s eating and nutritional factors. A cross-sectional study was developed with 416 mothers linked to 130 public higher education institutions in all Brazilian states and their children aged 18 months to six years. A semi-structured online questionnaire was applied using the Google Forms tool, with questions about sociodemographic conditions, food consumption and anthropometry of the children. The children’s food consumption was assessed based on the Food Consumption Markers Form (SISVAN) for the age groups up to 24 months (n = 84) and over 24 months (n = 332), and the parental style in feeding, based on the Parental Feeding Styles Questionnaire (QEPA). The assessment of the child’s nutritional status was based on the weight and height data reported by the mother. The body mass index/age (BMI/Age) was calculated and classified into age-specific WHO curves. Descriptive analysis and univariate analyses were performed, in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 26.0) programs (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). To test the association between categorical variables, the Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was used, and multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the independent association between the variables of interest, with an estimated odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance was adopted at 5%. Children under 24 months of age with authoritative mothers were 8.7 times more likely to consume ultra-processed foods and 5.3 times less likely to consume foods rich in vitamin A than those with indulgent mothers. Children over 24 months old with authoritative mothers were 2.5 times more likely to eat meals while watching television, 2.0 times more likely to consume sandwich cookies, candies and sweets, and 2.3 times less likely to have at least the three main meals of a day, compared to those with indulgent mothers. The chances of overweight children being born to authoritative mothers were two times greater compared to underweight children. Higher scores in the demandingness domain among responsive mothers increased the odds ratios of children eating unhealthy foods, using screens during meals, and proved to be a protective factor against low child weight.

The effects of Moringa oleifera leaves on the nutritional status of children under five years

Children's health status is important for determining the human quality of life. Thus, the first life of a newborn child is critical because the consequences of disturbances that occur in children can be permanent. Moringa oleifera has been known as a miracle tree with many health benefits, including for children. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera in different forms (boiled soup and biscuit) in improving the nutritional status of children under five years old. The study was a quasi-experiment with a pre-posttest non-equivalent control group design. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, with a total of forty-eight participants divided into two groups (24 participants for the Moringa soup group and 24 participants for the Moringa biscuit group). The interventions were given for 30 days. The result shows that children's weight was significantly altered after the intervention in both groups (p&lt;0.001). Height was not significantly changed after the intervention in the Moringa soup group (p = 0.100) and in the Moringa biscuit group (p = 0.317). In conclusion, both Moringa soup and biscuits effectively improve weight in children under five years of age.

Healthy Change Intervention: A Cluster RCT in Preschooler Mothers in Mexico and the United States.

To assess effects of Healthy Change intervention on maternal perception of her child's body weight (MPCW), maternal feeding style, and obesogenic home environment. A randomized control trial was conducted, consisting of two arms: the intervention group received the Healthy Change program, and the control group received the Hygiene and Accident Prevention program. A total of 356 mother-preschool child dyads participated, 182 in the intervention group and 174 in the control group, residing in Mexico and the United States. Data were collected at baseline and after the program through self-administered questionnaires completed by mothers and child anthropometric measurements. Although no significant between-group difference in pre- and post-intervention change of MPCW was found, sub-analyses revealed that a higher proportion of mothers in the intervention group accurately perceived their child's body weight at the study endpoint using categorical (67% vs. 57.1%, p < 0.005) and visual scales (48.9% vs. 41.8%, p < 0.015). Additionally, more mothers of overweight children in the intervention group accurately perceived their children's overweight and obese status compared to those in the control group (29.8% vs. 10.3%, X2 = 4.26, df = 1, p < 0.039). The intervention group also displayed a higher proportion of mothers with authoritative feeding style (26.4% vs. 16.5%, p < 0.036) and significantly higher family nutrition and physical activity scores (29.1 vs. 28.0, p < 0.000) at the study endpoint. Healthy Change Intervention led to improved accuracy of MPCW, a shift toward maternal authoritative feeding styles, and positive changes in obesogenic home environments.

THE ACCOMPANIMENT OF SUPPLEMENTARY FOOD FOR MONITORING THE STUNTING RISK CHILDREN IN RENGAS I VILLAGE OGAN ILIR

Introduction: The Ogan Ilir Regency district has the second-highest prevalence of stunting in South Sumatra, with a prevalence rate of 24.9%. Providing additional meals (PMT) is an essential component, especially to improve the conditions of low-income communities affected by malnutrition, with a specific focus on young children. The purpose of the activity is to provide a continuous supply of food, thus preventing body weight loss and promoting optimal nutritional well-being. Methods: The event took place at a village in Payaraman District situated in Ogan Ilir Regency. The participant were the two children, namely Anak R (3.5 years old) and Anak S (1.7 years). The service methods included the process of meal preparation for PMT and the delivery of meals to the homes of children. The method used for the PMT involved the daily allocation of food, the nutrient composition of various foods, including pumpkin, potatoes, carrots, maize and similar substitutes. At the end of the month, the final anthropometric measurements were collected. The anthropometric measurements encompassed body weight, and height. The weight of the youngster was measured using a digital scale manufactured for further analysis. Results: There was a noticeable improvement in weight and height of Anak R and Anak S. Anak R demonstrated a weight gain after the programme from exactly 9.30 kg to 9.80 kg, while Anak S showed an increased weight from 7.80 kg to 8.50 kg. Anak R's height improved from 81.0 cm to 85.0 cm and Anak S's from 71.0 cm to 72.0 cm. Despite the observed growth in the weight and height of both children, the acquired findings did not meet the desired levels for each child's weight and height. Conclusion: Community service activities include food supplementary accompaniment and stunting surveillance has assisted for children with high risk of stunting conditions to gain weight and height after food additions. The accompaniment community service activity can be used as an effort to reduce cases of malnutrition.