ESPE Abstracts

Introduction: Obesity is a significant public health concern affecting children and young people (CYP) worldwide. The impact of obesity on CYP is multi-faceted and can have a significant effect on their lives. They are at risk of being stigmatized and discriminated against, leading to poor academic performance and social functioning. It is crucial to assess the impact of obesity on the lives of CYP through tools such as Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) questionnaires.

Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a retrospective review of the baseline and three-month follow-up HRQOL scores in a group of CYP with obesity, who are being managed as part of the tertiary multidisciplinary (MDT) weight management service.

Methods: 31 patients with a mean age of 14.2 years (M:F, 14:17) and a mean BMI of 44.1kg/m2 completed the paediatric QOL questionnaire [PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales] at baseline and 3 months after intervention from the MDT team. Scores were categorised under four individual sections and the summary scores were also calculated. Psychosocial health summary score compiled scores on emotional, social, and school functioning results and the physical health summary score complied scores on physical function. The mean score for all items were evaluated.

Results: Overall, the total score improved from a baseline of 52.11/100 to 55.37/100 after 3 months of intervention from MDT team. The subdomains most impacted were school function and emotional score, with baseline scores of 44.69/100 and 47.80/100, respectively. With active intervention and support, school and emotional scores improved to 49.06/100 and 50.625/100. The social function score also improved from 53.84/100 to 61.15/100 within the same period. Overall, the psychosocial score summary showed improvement from 49.35/100 to 53.82/100.

Conclusion: Our study highlights that targeted intervention by MDT weight management service could improve the HRQOL in CYP with obesity. The PedsQL questionnaire helps healthcare professionals to identify the specific issues and offer focussed support. The study provides compelling evidence for investment in MDT teams to provide ongoing support to manage the obesity-related complications, including mental health issues, thereby improving the long-term outcomes and overall well-being.