Objective. It is uncertain whether children of all weight classifications receive the recommended screening and counseling and if these affect weight status in the subsequent year. Methods. Data from the 2008-2011 Medical Expenditures Panel Survey were used to examine associations between weight classification and receipt of weight-related screening and counseling from the pediatric provider (n = 9835). Body mass index (BMI) z-score in the subsequent year was modeled as a function of the BMI z-score in year 1. Results. Normal and overweight children have lower odds than obese children of receiving counseling regarding diet (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.50-0.68; AOR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.63-0.89, respectively) and exercise (AOR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.48-0.65; AOR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.64-0.89, respectively). Counseling was associated with a small increase in BMI z-score in the subsequent year (β = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.01-0.11), as was maternal weight class. Conclusions. Recommendations to focus prevention on the family unit may reduce childhood overweight and obesity.
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