Evaluating the Impact of an 8-Week Family-Focused E-Health Lifestyle Program for Adolescents: A Retrospective, Real-World Evaluation

Abstract

Background/objectives: Overweight and obesity in adolescents is a significant public health concern, yet limited interventions exist in Australia to promote healthy behavior change in families and young people. This retrospective, real-world evaluation aimed to describe the impact of an 8-week e-Health program (Think, Eat And Move, [TEAM]) on anthropometric, behavioral and wellbeing outcomes in adolescents. Methods: Eligible TEAM program participants were aged 13–17 years, resided in Central or Eastern Sydney, Australia, had overweight/obesity, were at risk of or had a chronic health condition and/or required healthy lifestyle support. Retrospective program data were used to assess the impact of TEAM on weight, height and BMI z-score, dietary intake, physical activity and wellbeing indices. Results: Of 567 registered participants, 313 completed the TEAM program and were included in the analysis (median age 14.4 years, 56.2% female). The median (interquartile range) BMI z-score reduced from 1.8 (1.4–2.2) pre-program to 1.6 (1.1–2.1) post-program (p < 0.001, n = 262). Significant improvements in health behaviors following the program were observed, including increased consumption of fruit, vegetables and water; reduced consumption of confectionery and take-away foods; increased days of physical activity; and reduced sedentary time. Significant positive changes were also observed in knowledge and wellbeing measures. Conclusions: Adolescents completing the TEAM program demonstrated clinically important changes in anthropometry and improved nutrition and physical activity behaviors. E-Health modalities for promoting behavior change should be considered in public health strategies for adolescents.