Management of childhood obesity: An audit of clinical practice in secondary care

Abstract

Aim: Childhood obesity continues to be a major health issue for children world-wide, with well-recognised major health effects. This study evaluated the prevalence of obesity in children presenting to secondary care in Southern New Zealand, as well as their clinical management. Methods: Obesity prevalence was determined by a review of data contained in the electronic anthropometry database in the region for the period 19 July 2010–16 July 2015. All clinical records were further examined using a standard data extraction form for 333 obese children regarding their clinical management. Results: A total of 8551 individuals were identified in the database for review. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher than the average national rates but stable over the 5-year period. Children of Maori and Pacific Island ethnicity, those most deprived and males were over-represented in terms of obesity. Of the 333 obese children whose clinical management was examined, 45.0% received a diagnosis of obesity. Of those diagnosed, 24.7% had further investigations related to possible obesity complications, and 72.7% were given management plans. Older females were more likely to receive clinical intervention, while Maori and Pacific Island children were less likely. Conclusions: Of the children seen in this secondary care setting, 40% are overweight or obese, and yet the rate of clinical intervention left room for improvement, suggesting a need for further staff education and clear guidelines. Maori and Pacific Island children have higher obesity burden but were less likely to receive clinical intervention. This may highlight a need for specific education regarding cultural practices.