Family-based behavioural treatment of obesity: acceptability and effectiveness in the UK.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the acceptability and impact of family-based behavioural treatment (FBBT) for childhood obesity in a clinical setting in the UK.


METHODS
Pre- and post-treatment assessment for four consecutive treatment groups.


METHODS
Treatment groups took place at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London.


METHODS
Participants were 33 families with obese (BMI >or=98th centile for age and sex) children aged 8-13 years.


METHODS
FBBT was delivered over 12 sessions.


METHODS
Overweight (percentage BMI), self-esteem, mood and eating attitudes were assessed before and after treatment; overweight was re-assessed at 3-month follow-up for those who completed treatment.


RESULTS
The FBBT programme materials translated easily to the UK setting and the programme was well-liked by participants. Twenty-seven out of 33 families (82%) completed the sessions. Children lost 8.4% BMI over the time of treatment, and this was maintained at 3-month follow-up. Self-esteem and depression improved significantly and there was no change in food pre-occupation, anorexia or bulimia on the ChEAT.


CONCLUSIONS
These results establish that FBBT is feasible and acceptable in a clinical setting in Britain. They indicate that significant loss of overweight can be achieved using the programme without adverse psychological consequences.
Edwards
C
C
Cancer Research Health Behaviour Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK.
Nicholls
D
D
Croker
H
H
Van Zyl
S
S
Viner
R
R
Wardle
J
J
D000293:Adolescent; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D002648:Child; D003863:Depression / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D002666:Psychology, Child; D012649:Self Concept; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D006113:United Kingdom; D015431:Weight Loss