Long-Term Outcomes of Group-Based Treatment for Obese Children and Adolescents

Objective: A 1-year, group-based, treatment program with parental involvement was conducted on 115 obese youths during 2006-2011. The intervention decreased obesity severity. The current study assessed the participants’ long-term weight loss and obesity-related complications.Methods: Participants were invited for a single visit. Their weights, heights, and waist circumferences were measured and compared with corresponding figures at group-based treatment program completion. Factors associated with changed percentage weight-for-height (%W/H) were assessed.Results: There were 43 subjects, including 6 participating telephonically. The median follow-up duration was 5.8 years. %W/H, BMI, and waist circumference increased significantly (p = 0.012, 0.002, and 0.003, respectively). %W/H rose for 26 participants (60.5%; failed group) but declined or stabilized for 17 (39.5%; successful group). The successful-group exercise duration and frequency were significantly higher (p = 0.006 and 0.018, respectively). Three participants had type 2 diabetes, including 1 known case, all in the failed group. Newly-found obesity-related disorders were elevated transaminases (6 participants, with 5 from the failed group), elevated blood pressure (1 failed-group participant), and dyslipidemia (one from each group).Conclusion: Only 40% of the participants maintained long-term weight reduction. Regular exercise was associated with successful weight maintenance. Obesity-related complications were common in the failed group.