Article

Children with disabilities are at higher risk of obesity, engage in less
physical activity and report poorer quality dietary habits than their
non-disabled peers.
This study reviewed current evidence on interventions
designed to facilitate weight management and/or weight-related behaviors (i.e.
physical activity and/or healthy eating habits) in children with physical
disabilities. METHODS: A scoping review was performed using established
methodology. Data from studies meeting specific inclusion criteria were extracted
and analyzed using summary statistics, and common characteristics thematically
identified. RESULTS: Thirty-four articles were included in the synthesis. No
long-term obesity prevention interventions were identified. The majority of
research focused upon children with cerebral palsy, and had case study, quasi- or
non-experimental designs. All interventions reporting positive outcomes (n = 18)
addressed physical activity, with common themes including using motivational
strategies for the child and child self-direction. Incremental increases in
workload and engaging in strength training for longer than 15 minutes were also
effective. Interventions targeting body weight/composition did not report success
in the long term. CONCLUSIONS: A robust evidence base is lacking for long-lasting
obesity interventions for children with physical disabilities. Current research
provides some insights into the specific components that should be considered
when planning such interventions in the future.

Langue : ANGLAIS