Inclusion team science improves participation of children with disabilities in pediatric obesity programs

Abstract

Background: Children with disabilities have higher prevalence rates of obesity compared to children without disabilities. Evidence supports the importance of early interventions in preventing pediatric obesity from progressing to adulthood obesity but there are limited opportunities for children with disabilities to participate in these early life programs.

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine multiple frameworks of disability inclusion that progressively reshaped an existing pediatric obesity intervention program toward improving participation for children with disabilities.

Methods: A qualitative narrative analysis approach involving semi-structured interviews, focus groups and participant observations was used to describe the experiences of eight obese children with disabilities, twelve obese children without disabilities, ten parents and ten volunteer healthcare student trainers who participated in an obesity intervention program, Fit Kids for Life (FKFL).

Results: FKFL participants' positive worldviews of disability inclusion, active involvement of parents and family members, diverse team of health professionals and volunteers, and improved health outcomes facilitated children with disabilities' participation in the program. Disability and obesity stigma and lack of local inclusive sites hindered access and participation for children with disabilities.

Conclusions: Results support using inclusion team science to improve participation and outcomes of a pediatric obesity intervention program for children with disabilities.

Keywords: Disability; Health promotion; Inclusion; Pediatric obesity; Team science.