Evidence report/technology assessment
-
Evid Rep Technol Assess (Full Rep) · Sep 2008
ReviewEffectiveness of weight management programs in children and adolescents.
To examine available behavioral, pharmacological, and surgical weight management interventions for overweight (defined as BMI > 85th to 94th percentile of age and sex-specific norms) and/or obese (BMI > 95th percentile) children and adolescents in clinical and nonclinical community settings. ⋯ The research evaluating the treatment of obese children and adolescents has improved in terms of quality and quantity in the past several years. While there are still significant gaps in our understanding of obesity treatment in children and adolescents, the current body of research points the way to further improvements needed to inform robust policy development. Publication of additional research and policy activities by others, including the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, is expected in the near future. And, in considering this important public health issue, policymakers should not ignore the importance of obesity prevention efforts as well as treatment.