Healthy Eating Program for Childhood Obesity
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to improve healthy eating habits among Hispanic families in rural Arkansas. It will test a culturally tailored program called the La CASA (Comunidad, Alimentación, Seguridad y Amén) Program, which includes cooking workshops and educational activities to determine if it helps mothers with healthy food preparation and increases children's fruit and vegetable intake. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving the healthy eating program and the other receiving informative videos on topics like mental health and dental care. The trial seeks mothers who have lived in the U.S. for at least a year, have a child aged 7 to 12, and can speak English or Spanish. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for families to contribute to research that could enhance community health and wellness.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on healthy eating and cooking, so it's unlikely that medication changes are required.
What prior data suggests that this healthy eating program is safe for children?
Research has shown that family-based programs, such as the La CASA Program, are generally safe and effective for treating childhood obesity. These programs include activities that promote healthy eating and exercise, and participants typically manage them well. No negative effects have been reported from the La CASA Program itself.
In other studies on similar programs, participants often engage in activities like cooking workshops and group learning sessions. These activities are designed to be safe and supportive for both children and their families. Families frequently find these activities enjoyable and helpful, indicating they are well-received.
Overall, programs like La CASA have demonstrated a strong safety record. They focus on practical, everyday changes rather than medical treatments, which usually results in fewer safety concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the La CASA Program because it takes a community-centered approach to tackle childhood obesity. Unlike standard treatments, which often focus on individual diet plans or exercise regimens, this program leverages Community Health Workers to deliver personalized healthy eating modules directly in the home. Additionally, it incorporates cooking demonstrations in a church setting, fostering a supportive community environment. This unique method not only targets dietary habits but also engages families and communities, potentially leading to more sustainable lifestyle changes.
What evidence suggests that the Growing Healthy Children and Families in Rural Arkansas intervention could be effective for childhood obesity?
Research has shown that family-based programs like the La CASA Program, which participants in this trial may receive, effectively treat childhood obesity. These programs involve the whole family and focus on healthy eating habits. This trial will compare the La CASA Program with a Control/Attention Group that receives video recordings on various health topics. Studies indicate that community-based efforts can greatly help prevent children from becoming overweight or obese. A similar program succeeded by working with Hispanic families and emphasizing culturally important aspects. This approach helps families make lasting changes in their diet and lifestyle, leading to healthier children.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Martha Rojo, PhD
Principal Investigator
UAMS
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Hispanic children with obesity and their mothers. Participants will be from churches involved in the study, willing to attend cooking workshops, and report on diet and physical activity. They must not have conditions that exclude them as per the trial's specific criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants in the intervention group receive seven healthy eating modules delivered by Community Health Workers in the home setting, plus two to three cooking demonstrations in the church setting.
Control
Participants in the control group receive seven bi-weekly messaging videos via Facebook/WhatsApp.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in diet quality and dietary behaviors using questionnaires and Veggie Meter measures.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- La CASA (Comunidad, Alimentación, Seguridad y Amén) Program
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Arkansas
Lead Sponsor