Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: The UK has seen a steady rise in childhood obesity over the last 30 years, with nearly a third of children aged 2–15 now overweight or obese. Childhood obesity represents a significant health burden, costing the NHS many millions of pounds.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, perception and actions of obese patients at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital (RMCH), to guide recommendations for improving the weight management service.

Methods: Questionnaires were sent to 118 patients involved in the ‘Metformin in Obese Children and Adolescents’ (MOCA) trial and patients on the metabolic clinic. Fifty-five multiple-choice questions were asked on 5 subject areas: personal details, diet, exercise, home life and health. Questions asked about the participants’ current behaviour, knowledge and perceptions in each area.

Results: Forty-nine questionnaires were returned. The mean age of respondents was 16 years and 80% were female. A third of participants were confused about how to eat healthily, and nearly a quarter admitted not understanding food labels. Despite 94% knowing that 5 portions of fruit or vegetables a day was recommended, 89% were not meeting this target. 63% said they were not very/not at all active. Seventy-three percent wanted to be more active but only 36% found exercise at school enjoyable. Most participants wanted to learn about cooking healthy foods. Worrying about being overweight was prevalent (80%) and may be a good indicator of motivation to change.

Conclusions: This survey identified a number of areas in which knowledge could be improved, including healthy eating and understanding food labels. Cooking could be used as a basis for educating young people about healthy food. Exercise sessions outside of the school environment could provide an opportunity for enjoyable activity leading to weight loss. Motivational techniques combined with education would be most beneficial.