Multi-disciplinary weight management compared to routine care in youth with obesity: what else should be monitored?

PURPOSE: Efficacy of multi-disciplinary weight management (MDM) in youth has not been compared to their routine care. OBJECTIVES: To compare body mass index z-score (zBMI) and blood test (lab) changes (Δ) in youth before and after MDM and to correlate bio-impedance analysis (BIA) and lab measurements. METHODS: We compared zBMI Δ (from referring providers' records), within 3 months prior to MDM, to monthly zBMI Δ after MDM, in a retrospective cohort of youth at a tertiary MDM center. BIA and lab measurements after 6 months, MDM were compared to baseline. RESULTS: We reviewed 316 records (12.9 ± 3.5 years, 49% males, 104.8 ± 35.1 kgs). The pre-MDM zBMI Δ (0.02 ± 0.1) was reversed after MDM (-0.03 ± 0.09, visit 2, P < 0.001). The zBMI Δ progressed on follow-up (-0.14 ± 0.05, visit 6). Baseline BIA components correlated with Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides, and systolic blood pressure. HbA1c, HOMA-IR, and liver functions significantly improved on follow-up. MDM participation showed progressive attrition and dropped to 11.6% at visit 6. CONCLUSION: MDM in youth resulted in zBMI and lab improvements compared to their pre-MDM measurements. BIA provided additional outcome measures that correlated with metabolic markers. MDM follow-up was limited by the progressive participant drop-out. Behavioral economic strategies are needed to improve adherence.