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Outcomes
To date, over 2,500 children have been evaluated in the program.
Upon initial screening, 47 percent were hypertensive, 55 percent had abnormal lipid/cholesterol levels, and an extraordinarily high proportion-- 38 percent-- had “The Metabolic Syndrome”- that is, they demonstrated three or more risk factors. Considering children with even one risk factor have a four-fold higher chance of developing type II diabetes, it is remarkable that the incidence of new onset of type II diabetes among the program’s participants has been less than one percent.
The program is intended to instill healthy eating and fitness habits for life. Relative weight loss (measured as a reduction in B.M.I.-z scores)—i.e., a decrease in the rate of weight gain based on increments in height and related to age as children continue to grow-- is expected and health outcomes have been very positive. For participants enrolled in the program for an average of 18 months:
- 71 % reduced or maintained their Body Mass Index score
- 72 % reduced or maintained their blood pressure
- 73 % reduced or maintained their cholesterol levels
- 68 % reduced or maintained their insulin levels
In addition to tracking clinical indicators, “fit tests” are administered regularly at the training sessions. The Fit Test measures standard physical abilities (e.g., example, sit-ups, running short lengths, squats, reach length) and is based on the New York City Fitness Gram and the President’s Council on Exercise.
Other metrics include changes in attitude regarding eating behaviors and improvement in dietary and exercise habits.