How effective is family-based behavioral treatment for childhood overweight and obesity when implemented in pediatric primary care settings?In this randomized trial with follow-up over 24 months, children, parents, and siblings with overweight or obesity assigned to undergo family-based treatment had significantly better weight loss outcomes, measured by percentage above the median body mass index for their age and sex, than those assigned to undergo usual care.
Family-based treatment used a variety of behavioral techniques to develop healthy eating, physical activity, and parenting behaviors within families. The treatment goal was 26 sessions over a 24-month period with a coach trained in behavior change methods; the number of sessions was individualized based on family progress.