Article

Children with disabilities are two to three times more likely to become
overweight or obese than typically developing children. Children with spina
bifida (SB) are at particular risk, yet obesity prevalence and weight management
with this population are under-researched. This retrospective chart review
explored how weight is assessed and discussed in a children's SB outpatient clinic. METHOD: Height/weight data were extracted from records of children aged
2-18 with a diagnosis of SB attending an outpatient clinic at least once between
June 2009-2011. Body mass index was calculated and classified using Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention cut-offs. Notes around weight, diet and
physical/sedentary activities were transcribed verbatim and analysed using
descriptive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Of 180 eligible patients identified, only
63 records had sufficient data to calculate BMI; 15 patients were overweight
(23.81%) and 11 obese (17.46%). Weight and physical activity discussions were
typically related to function (e.g. mobility, pain). Diet discussions focused on
bowel and bladder function and dietary challenges. CONCLUSIONS: Anthropometrics
were infrequently recorded, leaving an incomplete picture of weight status in
children with SB and suggesting that weight is not prioritised. Bowel/bladder
function was highlighted over other benefits of a healthy body weight, indicating
that health promotion opportunities are being missed. Implications for
Rehabilitation It is important to assess, categorise and record anthropometric
data for children and youth with spina bifida as they may be at particular risk
of excess weight. Information around weight categorisation should be discussed
openly and non-judgmentally with children and their families. Health promotion
opportunities may be missed by focusing solely on symptom management or function.
Healthcare professionals should emphasise the broad benefits of healthy eating
and physical activity, offering strategies to enable the child to incorporate
healthy lifestyle behaviours appropriate to their level of ability.

Langue : ANGLAIS