Results of a multi-level intervention to prevent and control childhood obesity among latino children: the aventuras para niños study

Abstract

Background Community-based interventions are needed to reduce the burden of childhood obesity. Purpose To evaluate the impact of a multi-level promotorabased (Community Health Advisor) intervention to promote healthy eating and physical activity and prevent excess weight gain among Latino children. Methods Thirteen elementary schools were randomized to one of four intervention conditions: individual/family level (Family-only), school/community level (Community-only), combined (Family+Community), or a measurement-only condition. Participants were 808 Latino parents and their children enrolled in kindergarten through 2nd grade. Measures included parent and child body mass index (BMI) and a self-administered parent survey that assessed several parent and child behaviors. Results There were no significant intervention effects on children's BMI z-score. The family intervention changed several obesity-related child behaviors (e.g., fruit/vegetable consumption) and these were mediated by changes in parenting variables (e.g., parent monitoring). Conclusion A promotora-based behavioral intervention was efficacious at changing parental factors and child obesity-related health behaviors. © The Society of Behavioral Medicine 2011.