Development of a School-Based Obesity Intervention for Mexican Americans

Abstract

The goal of this article is to provide insight into the development of a school-based pediatric obesity intervention for urban, low-income, minority students. This program has demonstrated significant improvements in weight-based outcomes that were maintained long-term. First, an overview of the rationale for intervening in a school system is provided, and several relevant issues that health care providers face when working in communities are discussed. After this, the components and outcomes of a school-based intervention are listed, with particular attention given to necessary adaptations needed in a school setting. Finally, barriers and facilitators to engaging a school system, unanticipated issues, and overall thoughts on future directions that should be explored to support health care providers with a pediatric obesity focus in school settings are examined. Overall, this article attempts to address practical issues that are faced by individuals who are trying to improve the lives of children who are overweight and obese.