Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion
8-2025
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Kala A. Christopherson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Abstract
PURPOSE To implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a clinic-based childhood obesity intervention program for Hispanic/Latino children.
BACKGROUND From 1975 to 2016, childhood obesity rates have more than quadrupled, affecting Hispanic/Latino families the most. Growing evidence suggests that incorporating the family unit and utilizing culturally centered weight management interventions can be cost-effective and pragmatic compared to a standard, generic approach.
METHODOOLOGY A quality improvement project was initiated to provide information on the degree of success of a clinic-based childhood obesity program for Hispanic/Latino children and their parents. The intervention focused on delivering a culturally centered health promotion message based on the 5-4-3-2-1-Go! evidence-based strategies. Knowledge of healthy lifestyle practices was evaluated using a pre-post intervention measurement of child body mass index (BMI), along with evidence-based age-appropriate surveys.
RESULTS Seven children participated in the intervention, during which their BMI decreased on average -0.43 kg/m², with only one child having an increase in BMI. 85.71% of children improved their BMI compared to baseline. Children in 1st-3rd grade met or exceeded knowledge health recommendations in 100% of post-surveys, while those in 4th grade or above did so in 93%.
IMPLICATIONS It is essential to acknowledge the impact that culturally centered interventions can have on developing programs that target weight management strategies. These interventions can foster positive, long-term changes in behavior, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes as children transition into adulthood. While family-based strategies appear beneficial, additional studies are necessary to evaluate their effectiveness.
Keywords
Hispanic Americans, Hispanic, Latino, pediatric obesity, childhood obesity, culture, cultural competence, weight reduction programs, weight reduction assistance, body mass index, body weight management, obesity management, body weight maintenance, and weight loss
Recommended Citation
Remigio Acevedo, "Culturally Centered, Primary Care Interventions for Effective Weight Management Goals in Hispanic/Latino Children" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 101.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/101