Recorded presentation

Marilyn M. Gardner, PhD, Department of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1 Big Red Way, STH 410E, Bowling Green, KY 42101, 270.745.5864, marilyn.gardner@wku.edu

The prevalence of children at or above the 85th percentile in a rural mid-south area is more than twice the national average. A study of pediatricians (N=44) and the parents of their pediatric patients ages 3 - 14 (N=260), was conducted to assess attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of each cohort as it relates to pediatric weight management issues. More than 40% of the pediatric patients were at or above the 85th percentile; however, close to 90% of parents misidentified these children as normal weight. Findings suggest that a negative spiral exists between parents and pediatricians with regard to the diagnosis and treatment of overweight children. Further, there are inconsistencies between beliefs and behaviors in both cohorts that contribute to this problem. The implications and suggestions for change will be discussed in addition to the data.

Learning Objectives:

• At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to state common misperceptions of parents and physicians regarding pediatric weight management issues.
• At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to identify targets for change within their own communities with regards to pediatric weight management issues.

Keywords: Obesity, Child/Adolescent

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation