Abstract

GAIPO, Sara et al. Education Week for Azorean Obese Children - An Approach to Treatment and Prevention of Childhood Obesity. Nutrícias [online]. 2012, n.14, pp.42-45. ISSN 2182-7230.

Introduction: Childhood obesity is a public health problem that has gained a terrifying expression along the last decades, constituting itself a major issue in relation to prevention and health promotion. Based on this problem was designed by three dietitians in São Miguel island a project promoting healthy lifestyles for Azorean children with overweight or obesity. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of an environment promoting a healthy lifestyle in the anthropometric parameters of obese and overweight children that attend the nutrition appointments in the Health Centers and Hospital in São Miguel Island. Methodology: Development of physical activity sessions, recreational activities and educational sessions, nutritional education and healthy cooking, always supported by a balanced food environment. Anthropometric evaluation was made according to the ISAK methodology (International Standards for Anthropometric Assessment). Results: After intervention, there was a mean weight loss of 1,9kg per person and a mean reduction in fat mass of 1,69 percent, both decreases being more pronounced in boys than in girls. Conclusions: As was observed in the first edition of this project, all participants lost weight and fat mass in the end of the intervention. This kind of projects may result in an effective approach in the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity.

Keywords : Childhood obesity; Food education; Physical activity.

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