Purpose
It is essential to investigate the users’ needs in developing user-centered, family-based applications (apps) for managing childhood obesity.
Methods
This study conducted focus group interviews with ten parents, ten children, and four app developers to investigate the need to develop a family-based mobile app for childhood obesity. The interview period was from July 17 to August 30, 2023. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
The results highlighted 31 key themes critical to family-based app development, including the need for comprehensive content promoting healthy lifestyle habits, tailored expert support, and motivational factors for app engagement, which were categorized as intrinsic, extrinsic, and social motivations and technological features. Participants also highlighted potential challenges, such as app usability issues and the need for a user-friendly interface. The pivotal role of parents in guiding and supporting their children’s health behaviors was emphasized, particularly in creating a supportive environment that encourages sustained engagement with the app.
Conclusion
These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the needs and preferences of parents, children, and app developers in managing childhood obesity. Emphasis on integrating healthy lifestyle content, providing expert support, and incorporating motivational strategies is crucial for the app’s success. Additionally, addressing potential difficulties and recognizing the pivotal role of parents are essential considerations. These insights will inform the design and development of a user-centered mobile app that supports families in managing childhood obesity.

Purpose
This study examined the combined effects of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption, screen-based sedentary behaviors, and sleep duration on adolescent obesity.
Methods
It followed a cross-sectional study design and conducted secondary analysis on data from 20,497 high school students who participated in the 17th (2021) Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey. This study underwent logistic regression analysis in complex sampling analysis.
Results
The combinations of low and medium consumption of SSBs, excessive screen-based sedentary behaviors, and short sleep durations were associated with a 1.18 and 1.12 fold increased likelihood of obesity (95% confidence interval [CI]=1.03–1.35) and (95% CI=1.02–1.22), respectively. The combination of high SSB consumption, appropriate screen-based sedentary behaviors, and short sleep duration (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.15, 95% CI=1.01–1.31) and high SSB consumption, excessive screen-based sedentary behaviors, and short sleep duration (aOR=1.40, 95% CI=1.16–1.69) were associated with obesity.
Conclusion
Integrated and tailored programs considering combination patterns of SSB consumption, screen-based sedentary behaviors, and short sleep duration need to be developed for preventing adolescent obesity.

Citations

• Association Between Family Structure and Obesity among Korean Adolescents
  Yoonsoo Sung, Jung Ah Lee
  Journal of Epidemiology.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef

Purpose
This study investigated weight status in survivors of childhood acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and identified related factors.
Methods
A retrospective review of the electronic medical records of survivors of childhood ALL (n=230) was conducted. We analyzed the survivors' characteristics, including sex, age, weight status at diagnosis, central nervous system involvement, risk classification, length of treatment, radiation therapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Analysis of variance and the chi-squared test were applied to investigate influencing factors.
Results
The weight status distribution was as follows: 23 individuals (10.0%) were classified as underweight, 151 individuals (65.7%) were healthy weight, and 56 individuals (24.3%) were overweight/obese. Age at diagnosis (F=10.03, p<.001), weight status at diagnosis (x2=43.41, p<.001), and risk classification (F=10.98, p=0.027) showed significant differences among the weight status groups. Survivors who were older at diagnosis and those in the very high-risk category had a higher likelihood of experiencing underweight status during their survivorship, while survivors who were overweight/obese at diagnosis were more likely to remain overweight/obese at the time of survival.
Conclusion
Considering the potential health implications related to an unhealthy weight status in survivors of ALL, it is imperative to undertake early identification and implement interventions for at-risk individuals.

Citations

• Early Increase in Weight Is Seen During Treatment for Paediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia—A Retrospective Analysis of Medical Records
  Håkon Endal, Bjørn Helge Handegård, Katrine Nordeng Mellem, Anita Andrejeva, Inga Maria Rinvoll Johannsdottir, Bendik Lund, Trond Flægstad, Inger P. Landsem
  Acta Paediatrica.2025; 114(11): 2935.     CrossRef

Purpose
This study aimed to systematically develop an obesity prevention program for adolescents to promote healthy eating and physical activity in schools.
Methods
The development of the Let's Eat Healthy and Move at School program for adolescents followed the six steps of intervention mapping (IM). IM is a widely used protocol for developing systematic and effective interventions based on theories and evidence.
Results
To better understand the problem and identify the needs of adolescents, interviews were conducted with teachers, school nurses, and students (step 1). In step 2, the desired behaviors and their determinants were established and combined into a matrix comprising 16 change objectives. In step 3, theoretical methods such as persuasive communication and consciousness-raising were chosen. The program was segmented into three educational activity sessions in step 4. In step 5, an implementation manual was developed for program instructors to ensure effective and accurate implementation. Finally, practices for evaluating the program's effectiveness and procedures were designed in step 6.
Conclusion
The Let’s Eat Healthy and Move at School program will provide adolescents with guidelines to promote healthy living and prevent obesity in everyday life using strategies for sustainable adolescent obesity prevention and management.

Citations

• Healthier School Systems for Learners: Government Role in Fostering Holistic Interventions
  Nsikakabasi Samuel George, Deborah Oluwaseun Shomuyiwa, Molly Unoh Ogbodum, Francis Ima Imoke, Alicja Domagała
  Journal of Education and Community Health.2024; 11(2): 112.     CrossRef

Purpose
Obesity among children from low-income families is becoming a social problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an obesity prevention program that included physical activity, nutrition education, behavioral modification, and primary caregiver participation components among children from low-income families.
Methods
The study analyzed a nonequivalent control group using a pretest-posttest design. A total of 77 children were recruited from six community childcare centers using purposive sampling. For the intervention group (n=40), the pretest was administered before the combined intervention program involving the participants' primary caregivers was conducted for 8 weeks. The posttest was conducted immediately after the program and again four weeks after the program.
Results
Flexibility (F=4.64, p=.020), muscular endurance (F=11.22, p<.001), nutritional knowledge scores (F=4.79, p=.010), body image satisfaction scores (F=4.74, p=.012), and self-esteem scores (F=3.81, p=.029) showed significant differences and interactions between group and time for the intervention and control groups.
Conclusion
Strategies to actively engage the primary caregivers of low-income families in children's obesity programs are needed. Obesity prevention programs for children based on the program in this study should be routinely developed, and continuing attention should be given to children from low-income families.

Citations

• Development of an integrated health promotion program for school-age children from vulnerable families in South Korea: a methodological study
  Eunjeong Bae, Eun Kyoung Choi
  Child Health Nursing Research.2025; 31(2): 107.     CrossRef
• Associations between Skipping Meals, Eating Alone, and Overweight or Obesity: A Secondary Data Analysis of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
  Yoon Jeong Choi, Jiwoo Lee
  Korean Journal of Adult Nursing.2025; 37(3): 297.     CrossRef
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of the standard traditional Korean medicine-based health promotion program for disadvantaged children in South Korea
  Eunhye Hyun, Jiseon Ryu, Kibong Kim, Sangjae Lee, Seungtae Kim, Byungmook Lim
  BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef

Purpose
This study aimed to develop a mobile-based self-management health alarm (MSHA) program for modifying obese children's lifestyle based on the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) model and to test its feasibility.
Methods
A methodological study for the development of the MSHA program and pilot study with a one-group pretest-posttest design for feasibility testing was conducted. The MSHA program was designed to provide obesity-related information (I), monitor daily diet and exercise, provide motivational text messages (M), and enhance healthy diet and exercise skills (B) via a mobile-based web platform. In the feasibility test, six obese children participated in the 4-week program, and the number of days per week that they achieved their goals and differences in metabolic components were assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Results
Participants successfully achieved their diet and exercise goals≥5 days per week. Body mass index (z=-1.99, p=.046), waist circumference (z=-2.20, p=.028), and triglyceride levels (z=-2.21, p=.027) significantly decreased.
Conclusion
The MSHA program showed positive effects on health behaviors and metabolic syndrome risk. The program may be effective in improving metabolic syndrome in obese children by promoting self-health management behaviors.

Citations

• Development and pilot evaluation of a theory-based self-care program for late school-aged children with atopic dermatitis: a quasi-experimental study in South Korea
  Da-Jeong Kum, Kyung-Sook Bang
  Child Health Nursing Research.2026; 32(1): 66.     CrossRef
• Communicating physical activity messages with adolescents: what works? A scoping review with stakeholder consultation
  Caera L Grady, Elaine Murtagh, Kwok Ng, Enrique García Bengoechea, Catherine B Woods
  International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and .2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Health self-management programs for adolescents and young adults with chronic medical condition transitioning from pediatric to adult care: a scoping review
  Yi Qi, Lin Xia, Yifan Chen, Ting Yi, Yiwen Hu, Ziling Xie, Yan Wang, Chaoqun Dong
  European Journal of Pediatrics.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Theory-Based Mobile Self-Management Interventions and Behavior Change Techniques for Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Scoping Review
  Heeae Moon, Sun-Kyung Hwang
  Korean Journal of Adult Nursing.2025; 37(4): 368.     CrossRef
• Development and validation of the information-motivation-behavioural skills model-based human immunodeficiency virus education kit for adolescents in Malaysia
  Wan Nur Syamimi Wan Mohamad Darani, Aimi Nadira Mat Ruzlin, Zahir Izuan Azhar, Xin Wee Chen
  Scientific Reports.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Healthier School Systems for Learners: Government Role in Fostering Holistic Interventions
  Nsikakabasi Samuel George, Deborah Oluwaseun Shomuyiwa, Molly Unoh Ogbodum, Francis Ima Imoke, Alicja Domagała
  Journal of Education and Community Health.2024; 11(2): 112.     CrossRef

Purpose
Community child centers (CCCs) were introduced to provide after-school activities and care, including meal services to children from low-income families. The assistant cooks, who have the main responsibility for making and serving food at CCCs, are a major factor influencing the eating habits of children using CCCs. In this study, we tried to identify and understand who the assistant cooks are, what their job responsibilities are, and what they need in order to be able to provide children with healthy meals.
Methods
Three focus group interviews were held with 17 workfare program participants who worked as assistant cooks at CCCs, and content analysis methods were applied using the NVivo 12 qualitative data analysis software.
Results
The assistant cooks reflected on their perceptions of the children's health at the CCCs, their own cooking style, and their role at the CCCs. Additionally, barriers to the optimal provision of their services were pointed out, and improvements were suggested.
Conclusion
The results of this study can be used as a fundamental resource for the development of tailored interventions that consider a child's unique environment to address health disparities, specifically with respect to childhood obesity.

Citations

• Diet-Related Disparities and Childcare Food Environments for Vulnerable Children in South Korea: A Mixed-Methods Study
  Jiyoung Park, Seolhyang Baek, Gahui Hwang, Chongwon Park, Sein Hwang
  Nutrients.2023; 15(8): 1940.     CrossRef
• An Interactive Live and Online Cooking Program for Children in Vulnerable Families—An Exploratory Study
  Jiyoung Park, Sein Hwang, Seolhyang Baek, Gill A. Ten Hoor
  Healthcare.2022; 10(12): 2389.     CrossRef

Purpose
This study was conducted to examine factors associated with obesity among Korean adolescents.
Methods
The participants were 436 Korean adolescents aged 12~18 years who took part in the seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016). The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, the x2 test, one-way analysis of variance, and multinomial logistic regression using complex sample analysis.
Results
Among the participants, 9.7% were classified as being obese, and 11.9% as being overweight. Several health parameters, including systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, and triglyceride, fasting blood sugar, and alanine aminotransferase levels, varied according to obesity. Distorted perceptions of body shape showed a significant negative association with overweight, and carbohydrate intake was negatively associated with obesity.
Conclusion
These findings indicate that obesity in Korean adolescents was associated with lifestyle and health parameters. Therefore, intervention programs for obese or overweight adolescents should focus on preventing them from developing health problems.

Citations

• Effects of night eating on oral health characteristics and symptoms of poor oral health in adolescents: a cross-sectional study using the 18th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey
  Seung–Hee Hong
  Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(2): 150.     CrossRef
• Combined effects of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, screen-based sedentary behavior, and sleep duration on South Korean adolescent obesity: a cross-sectional study
  Jin Suk Ra, Do Thi Thu Huyen
  Child Health Nursing Research.2024; 30(2): 77.     CrossRef
• Dietary safety management competency for the sustainable health management of adolescents
  Yunhwa Kim
  Journal of Nutrition and Health.2022; 55(3): 406.     CrossRef
• Disparity between Subjective Health Perception and Lifestyle Practices among Korean Adolescents: A National Representative Sample
  Aniceto Echalico Braza, Jinsoo Jason Kim, Sun Hee Kim
  Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.2022; 12(3): 153.     CrossRef

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to identify trends in intervention studies on childhood obesity in Korea.
Methods
From 1996, when the first research paper on childhood obesity intervention was published, to 2015, 192 published papers were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results
The number of studies increased sharply between 1996 and 2007, but declined slightly from then. The majority of studies involved only children as intervention participants. Most were elementary students, and overweight and obese children. Exercise therapy was the most common type of intervention. Parental participation was found in 35 studies, while teacher’s participation was found in only one study. In many studies physiological indicators were used as measurement variables, but follow-up was done in only 10 studies. Finally, only a few studies applied a conceptual framework, while a quasi-experimental research design was used for most studies.
Conclusion
Examination of trends in intervention studies on childhood obesity in Korea, shows there has been a quantitative increase but not enough improvement in terms of the quality of interventions. Findings in the present study suggest that it is necessary to seek diversity in terms of study participants, interventions and evaluation method along with quality improvement in research methodology.

Citations

• What Are the Challenges of School Nurses in South Korea in Managing Obese Children From Low-Income Households?
  Jeonghyun Cho, Jiyoung Park, Chongwon Park, Jinah Lee, Jina Oh, Gahui Hwang
  The Journal of School Nursing.2023; 39(6): 506.     CrossRef
• Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training Intervention on Physical Fitness and Body Mass Index of Overweight Primary Schoolchildren
  Aleksander OSİPOV, Irina ORLOVA, Tatyana RATMANSKAYA, Tatıana LEPİLİNA
  Pamukkale Journal of Sport Sciences.2023; 14(1): 63.     CrossRef
• Additive Effects of Exercise or Nutrition Intervention in a 24-Month Multidisciplinary Treatment with a Booster Intervention for Children and Adolescents with Overweight or Obesity: The ICAAN Study
  Sarah Woo, Young-Su Ju, Young-Gyun Seo, Yoon-Myung Kim, Hyunjung Lim, Kyung-Hee Park
  Nutrients.2022; 14(2): 387.     CrossRef
• Effects of a 12-Week Diet versus Diet plus Aerobic and Resistance Exercise Program on Acylated and Desacylated Ghrelin, and Ghrelin O-Acyltransferase in Adolescent Girls with Obesity
  Hyun Jun Kim, Young Jin Tak, Sang Yeoup Lee, Jeong Pyo Seo
  International Journal of Environmental Research an.2022; 19(3): 1480.     CrossRef
• The Let’s Eat Healthy and Move at School program for adolescents in South Korea: Program design, implementation, and evaluation plan using intervention mapping
  Jiyoung Park, Gill A. Ten Hoor, Seolhyang Baek, Sochung Chung, Yang-Hyun Kim, Gahui Hwang
  Child Health Nursing Research.2021; 27(3): 225.     CrossRef
• Effectiveness of a combined obesity prevention program in South Korea for children from low-income families that included primary caregiver participation
  Namhee Park, Mihae Im
  Child Health Nursing Research.2021; 27(3): 211.     CrossRef
• Service Providers’ Perspectives on Barriers of Healthy Eating to Prevent Obesity among Low-income Children Attending Community Childcare Centers in South Korea: A Qualitative Study
  Jiyoung Park, G. A. Ten Hoor, Jeonghyun Cho, Soobin Kim
  Ecology of Food and Nutrition.2020; 59(3): 311.     CrossRef
• Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Obesity: Recommendations from the Committee on Pediatric Obesity of the Korean Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition
  Dae Yong Yi, Soon Chul Kim, Ji Hyuk Lee, Eun Hye Lee, Jae Young Kim, Yong Joo Kim, Ki Soo Kang, Jeana Hong, Jung Ok Shim, Yoon Lee, Ben Kang, Yeoun Joo Lee, Mi Jin Kim, Jin Soo Moon, Hong Koh, JeongAe You, Young-Sook Kwak, Hyunjung Lim, Hye Ran Yang
  Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition.2019; 22(1): 1.     CrossRef
• Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric obesity: recommendations from the Committee on Pediatric Obesity of the Korean Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition
  Dae Yong Yi, Soon Chul Kim, Ji Hyuk Lee, Eun Hye Lee, Jae Young Kim, Yong Joo Kim, Ki Soo Kang, Jeana Hong, Jung Ok Shim, Yoon Lee, Ben Kang, Yeoun Joo Lee, Mi Jin Kim, Jin Soo Moon, Hong Koh, JeongAe You, Young-Sook Kwak, Hyunjung Lim, Hye Ran Yang
  Korean Journal of Pediatrics.2019; 62(1): 3.     CrossRef
• An Integrative Literature Review of Interventions for School-aged Overweight and Obese Children
  Juhyun Jo, Sang-Youn Jang, Dajeong Kum, Jihee Lim, Jeongeun Kim
  Perspectives in Nursing Science.2019; 16(2): 75.     CrossRef
• A Systematic Review of Forest Therapy Programs for Elementary School Students
  Min Kyung Song, Kyung-Sook Bang
  Child Health Nursing Research.2017; 23(3): 300.     CrossRef

Purpose
Little is known about the dieting experiences of obese adolescent boys, as the majority of studies on obesity in children and adolescents have included only girls. This qualitative study was designed to explore the ways in which male middle school boys attach subjective meanings to their obese bodies, and experience dieting practices in their everyday lives.
Methods
Fifteen obese boys aged 14 to 16 were interviewed via in-depth, face-to-face interviews. All interview data were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
Having a large build and increased strength that prevented bullying by peers had positive meanings participants attributed to their obese bodies. However, negative meanings existed as well, including feeling heavy and having no physical endurance, having a clammy and odorous body, and being bullied and vulnerable to disease. With respect to dieting experiences, multiple positive and negative subthemes were identified.
Conclusion
The findings of this study show the intersection between adolescence and everyday life challenges for obese middle school boys in the Korean culture. Further, recommendations for healthcare professionals include a gender-specific approaches when intervening and planning programs for obese adolescents.

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to analyze differences in health behaviors among adolescents in order to provide fundamental data to develop an effective body weight control program.
Methods
Secondary analysis was done using data from the 9th (2013) Online Survey on Adolescents’ Health Behaviors by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The adolescents were divided into low weight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity groups according to body mass index (BMI). Differences in health behaviors were analyzed.
Results
Gender, grade, socioeconomic status, perceived-health status, exercise, breakfast, fast food, ramen noodles, snacks, carbonated soft drinks, fruits and vegetables, satisfaction with sleep, stress, smoking, and alcohol consumption were significantly different among the groups. Ingestion of carbonated soft drinks and snacks was significantly higher in the low weight group compared to the normal weight group. Eating fast foods, ramen noodles, and snacks was significantly lower in the overweight and obesity groups compared to the normal weight group.
Conclusion
Findings indicate that health behaviors among the groups differ from traditional knowledge about obesity. To develop optimal programs and improve efficacy, prior knowledge should be used to think differently and individualized programs should be based on an understanding health behaviors of adolescents.

Citations

• Effects of Multidisciplinary Health Promotion Program Among Children in Community Childcare Center
  Yerin Kim, Gyeong Seob Shin, Jungwon Park, Minji Kang, Kumhee Son, Yoon Myung Kim, Kyung Hee Park, Hyunjung Lim
  Clinical Nutrition Research.2024; 13(1): 8.     CrossRef
• Association of dietary habits with general and abdominal obesity in Korean children and adolescents: cluster analysis of nationwide population survey data
  Ye-Jin Yun, Yu-Jin Kwon, Yaeji Lee, Seok-Jae Heo, Ji-Won Lee
  Frontiers in Endocrinology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• The Relationship between Positive Parenting Attitude and Children’s BMI Z-score: Focusing on the Mediating Effect of Exercise Time and Number of Breakfasts Consumed of Children
  Seoyoung Choi, Sangshin Park
  Journal of Health Informatics and Statistics.2023; 48(3): 210.     CrossRef
• Health behaviors and mental health among adolescents: A comparison based on BMI using the 2021 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey
  Hye-Ryeon Park, Na-Geong Kim
  Belitung Nursing Journal.2023; 9(6): 571.     CrossRef
• Health literacy of adolescents in the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review
  Rafaela Aparecida Prata, Tamara Barros Bicudo, Juliana Bastoni da Silva, Marla Andréia Garcia de Avila
  Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Letramento em saúde de adolescentes na pandemia de COVID-19: revisão integrativa
  Rafaela Aparecida Prata, Tamara Barros Bicudo, Juliana Bastoni da Silva, Marla Andréia Garcia de Avila
  Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Recognition and preference of rice-based home meal replacement for breakfast among adolescents in the Jeonbuk area
  Hae-Rim Oh, Hyunsuk Kim, Su-Jin Jung, Youn-Soo Cha
  Journal of Nutrition and Health.2021; 54(3): 262.     CrossRef
• eHealth Literacy, Awareness of Pandemic Infectious Diseases, and Healthy Lifestyle in Middle School Students
  Sinyoung Choi, Kyung-Sook Bang, Da-Ae Shin
  Children.2021; 8(8): 699.     CrossRef
• Application Design for Child Obesity Management Based on Users’ Preferences and Needs
  Jisan Lee, Kim Jeongeun, Byun Ahjung, Jin Meiling, Piao Meihua, Kwak Kyungryeon, Lee Hyeoiyun
  Western Journal of Nursing Research.2020; 42(5): 356.     CrossRef
• Factors associated with Obesity among Korean Adolescents based on the Seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016)
  Hyun Young Koo, Eun Kyung Lee
  Child Health Nursing Research.2019; 25(1): 28.     CrossRef
• Influence of perceived stress on obesity in South Korean adolescents using data from the 13th 2017 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey
  Hye Ja Gu
  Korean Journal of Health Education and Promotion.2019; 36(1): 29.     CrossRef
• Dietary and Lifestyle Factors Associated with Weight Status among Korean Adolescents from Multicultural Families: Using Data from the 2017–2018 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Surveys
  SuJin Song, Hyojune Song
  Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2019; 24(6): 465.     CrossRef
• The Differences in Obesity Rates According to Status of Co-Residence with Their Parents in Korean Adolescents: The Implication of the Gender of Single Parent Living with Adolescents
  Nahee Kim, Young Gyu Cho, Jae-Heon Kang, Hyun Ah Park, Kyoungwoo Kim, Yang-Im Hur, Duho Kwon
  Korean Journal of Health Promotion.2018; 18(4): 177.     CrossRef

Purpose
The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of preschooler obesity/overweight and to identify associated factors.
Methods
This study was a cross-sectional study. Data for 591 preschoolers, 432 fathers and 538 mothers from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-2014 were included. Obesity/overweight was defined by 2007 Korean National Growth Charts. T-test, Rao-Scott χ2, multivariate logistic regression was used for the analysis.
Results
Prevalence rates for preschooler obesity/overweight were 14.9% (obesity, 5.4%; overweight, 9.5%). The preschoolers with atopic dermatitis or allergic rhinitis or asthma (OR=2.78, 95% CI [1.27-6.09], p=.011) and eating more thiamine per day (OR=1.01, 95% CI [1.00-1.02], p=.001) showed higher obesity/overweight development. The only parental factor affecting preschooler obesity/overweight was parental body mass index (father, OR=1.18, 95% CI [1.09-1.28], p<.001; mother, OR=1.09, 95% CI [1.04-1.15], p<.001).
Conclusion
Interventions on preventing preschooler obesity should be introduced much earlier for children with risk factors. Results from this study can be used as preliminary data to develop effective strategies to prevent obesity in Korean preschoolers.

Citations

• Validation of the Korean Version of the Nutrition Screening Tool for Every Preschooler (NutriSTEP ® ): Using the Rasch Model
  So Hyun Park, Youn-Jung Son, Hanjong Park
  Journal of the American Nutrition Association.2025; : 1.     CrossRef
• Analysis of the factors that influence preschool children eating behavior by applying the health belief model: Seoul and Gyeonggi Province
  Sung-Mi Cha, Soo-Youn Kim
  Nutrition Research and Practice.2023; 17(3): 541.     CrossRef
• Social Ecological Factors for Adolescent Obesity: Using the 2021 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data
  Kyong Sil Park
  Journal of Health Informatics and Statistics.2023; 48(3): 233.     CrossRef
• Relationship between the Dietary Behavior of Young Children and Their Mothers in Daejeon, Korea Using the Nutrition Quotient for Preschoolers and Adults
  InYoung Jeong, SuJin Song
  Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2021; 26(1): 12.     CrossRef
• Risk Factors in Early Life for Preschool Children in Korea that are Associated with Being Overweight or Obese
  Jin Suk Ra, Hyun Jung Yun
  Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives.2020; 11(1): 15.     CrossRef
• Relations among Maternal Employment, Depressive Symptoms, Breastfeeding Duration, and Body Mass Index Trajectories in Early Childhood
  Jihyoung Kim
  Journal of The Korean Society of Maternal and Chil.2020; 24(2): 75.     CrossRef
• Factors associated with Obesity among Korean Adolescents based on the Seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016)
  Hyun Young Koo, Eun Kyung Lee
  Child Health Nursing Research.2019; 25(1): 28.     CrossRef
• Assessment of dietary behaviors among preschoolers in Daejeon: using Nutrition Quotient for Preschoolers (NQ-P)
  Hye-Jin Lee, Jin Hee Kim, SuJin Song
  Journal of Nutrition and Health.2019; 52(2): 194.     CrossRef
• Association between Body Mass Index and Dental Caries : Based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013 - 2015
  Jihye Jang, Miso Lee, Jaegon Kim, Yeonmi Yang, Daewoo Lee
  THE JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN ACADEMY OF PEDTATRIC DEN.2019; 46(3): 283.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to investigate knowledge related to child obesity of child daycare center workers.
METHODS
The participants in this study were 360 child daycare center workers in 2 cities in South Gyeongsang Province. Data were collected from February to June, 2011, using self-report questionnaires including questions about the general characteristics of the daycare center workers and their knowledge related to child obesity. Frequency, percentage, arithmetic mean, standard deviation, t-test and ANOVA were used to analyze the data with the SPSS WIN 16.0 program.
RESULTS
The knowledge scores of child daycare center workers about child obesity averaged 74.8. The domains of diet (0.87 points) and prevention (0.86 points) had high scores, while, the domains of general characteristics (0.64 points) and diagnosis (0.59 points) had low scores.
CONCLUSION
These results indicate that obese education programs for child daycare center workers should be developed in order to identify and teach children with obesity appropriately.

Citations

• Estimation of Effects of Factors Related to Preschooler Body Mass Index Using Quantile Regression Model
  Hee Soon Kim, Yun Hee Park, Hyun Bong Park, Su Hee Kim
  Asian Nursing Research.2014; 8(4): 293.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The purpose of the study was to identify differences in physiological.psychological.environmental.behavioral characteristics between obese and control children participating in a health camp and to identify the factors related to childhood obesity.
METHODS
Two hundred eighty seven children aged 6 to 12 years were recruited from a health camp for elementary students in D city, Korea. Data collection was done on November 28 and 29, 2009. Anthropometric measurements, blood tests, and self-report surveys were conducted. Chi-square test, independent t-test, ANCOVA, and multiple logistic regression were performed using PASW statistics 18.0.
RESULTS
Obese children had adverse conditions for both physiological and psychological characteristics. In terms of environmental and behavioral characteristics, high maternal BMI and more than two hours of TV watching were significantly associated with high risk of childhood obesity (OR=1.11, 95% CI=1.02-1.21; OR=2.05, 95% CI=1.23-3.41).
CONCLUSION
Through a multi-factorial approach, the current study identified the differences between obese and control children participating in a health camp and risk factors of childhood obesity. These findings provide preliminary data and perspectives on intervention research for prevention and management of childhood obesity.

Citations

• Process evaluation of a kindergarten-based intervention for obesity prevention in early childhood: the Toybox study Malaysia
  W. L. Cheah, B. K. Poh, A. T. Ruzita, J. A. C. Lee, D. Koh, S. Reeves, C. Essau, C. Summerbell, Y Noor Hafizah, G. N. J. Anchang, E. L. Gibson
  BMC Public Health.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Parent Involvement Intervention in Developing Weight Management Skills for both Parents and Overweight/Obese Children
  Hee Soon Kim, Jiyoung Park, Kye-yeong Park, Myung-Nam Lee, Ok Kyung Ham
  Asian Nursing Research.2016; 10(1): 11.     CrossRef
• Economic Differences in Risk Factors for Obesity Among Overweight and Obese Children
  Hee Soon Kim, Ok Kyung Ham, Mi Na Jang, Hyun Jung Yun, Jiyoung Park
  The Journal of School Nursing.2014; 30(4): 281.     CrossRef
• An Emotional Self-Regulation Program for Obese Children: Pilot Study Using Mixed Methods
  Hee-Soon Kim, Yu-Mi Ma, Ji-Young Park, Seung-Hyun Kim
  Child Health Nursing Research.2013; 19(3): 187.     CrossRef
• Factors Influencing Health-Related Quality of Life of Overweight and Obese Children in South Korea
  Hee Soon Kim, Jiyoung Park, Yumi Ma, Ok Kyung Ham
  The Journal of School Nursing.2013; 29(5): 361.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of self-efficacy and health promotion behavior in obese elementary school children.
METHODS
The participants for this study were 280 students from seven elementary schools, located in Chonbuk Province. For data analysis, descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficients and simple linear regression were used with SPSS WIN ver 15.0 Program.
RESULTS
The mean scores for self-efficacy and health promotion behavior were 2.95+/-0.60 and 2.99+/-0.39 respectively. There were significant positive correlations between health promotion behavior and self-efficacy (r= .614, p < .001). The main predictor of health promoting behavior in obese elementary school children was self-efficacy, which explained 37.7%.
CONCLUSION
The findings from this study indicate a need to develop nursing intervention programs to health promotion behavior in obese elementary school children including the promotion of self-efficacy.

Citations

• An Integrated Review of Health Care in Child and Adolescent Cancer Survivors Based on Roy’s Adaptation Model
  Hye Jin Kim, Eunjoo Lee
  Asian Oncology Nursing.2024; 24(2): 82.     CrossRef
• Knowledge Related to Child Obesity of Child Daycare Center Worker
  Dong-Jin Lee, Young-Ok Yang
  Journal of Korean Academy of Child Health Nursing.2011; 17(4): 247.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the Health Promotion Life Profile of normal-weight and obese children, and factors related to obesity in elementary school children, and provide basic data for the development an obesity management program for these children.
METHOD
The survey participants were 878 fourth to sixth grade elementary school children in Gwangju. chi-square-test, t-test, ANOVA and multiple logistic regression with the SPSS program were used to analyze the collected data.
RESULTS
The Health Promotion Life Profile showed significant differences between normal-weight and obese groups according to food habits (t=3.305, p= .001) and exercise habits (t=-4.065, p=< .001). The Health Promotion Life Profile of obese children was also significantly different according to interest in weight control (F=3.044, p= .050), regular breakfast (F=3.699, p= .014), regular meals (F=6.868, p= .002). The multiple logistic regression analysis, showed that factors in obesity were significantly different according to gender, interest in weight control, fast eating, overeating and predilection for some food.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study suggest that items on Health Promotion Life Profile such as food habits and exercise habits should be included in education programs to prevent obesity in elementary school children.

Citations

• Factors Affecting Obesity and Overweight in Korean Preschool Children: Based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-2014
  Inju Hwang, Kyung-Sook Bang
  Child Health Nursing Research.2016; 22(4): 237.     CrossRef
• Obesity Index and Related Factors among Elementary School Students Visiting Pediatric Department of General Hospital
  Hwan-Hee Lee, Soo-Kyong Choi, Jung-Sook Seo
  Journal of the Korean Dietetic Association.2012; 18(2): 186.     CrossRef
• Comparisons of obesity assessments in over-weight elementary students using anthropometry, BIA, CT and DEXA
  Ok-Kyeong Yu, Yang-Keun Rhee, Tae-Sun Park, Youn-Soo Cha
  Nutrition Research and Practice.2010; 4(2): 128.     CrossRef
• Perceived Body Image, Intentional Caloric Restriction and Physical Manifestations of Unbalanced Nutrition according to Body Mass Index in Fifth and Sixth Grade Elementary School Students
  Bo Hwan Kim, Ji Hea Choi
  Journal of Korean Academy of Child Health Nursing.2009; 15(4): 359.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The aims of this study is to analysis the effects of obesity management programs for children and to measure the differences in the effects by type and dependent variables in order to analyze the structures of the programs.
METHODS
Sixty-one peer-reviewed journals including child obesity and intervention studies published between 2000 and 2010 were included for meta-analysis. Effect size and statistics of homogeneity were by STAT 10.0.
RESULTS
A total of 61 studies were used in the analysis, and the effect size of the independent studies was determined to be -0.23 (95% CI, -0.32 ~ -0.15). Serum Leptin and Insulin were the big effect size among the studies that used dependent variables. The theses used in the research did not display publishing bias.
CONCLUSION
Obesity management programs that have been confirmed to be effective need to be developed into regional protocols. A continuous control of obese children and research for effective intervention program are in need.

Citations

• Health behaviors and mental health among adolescents: A comparison based on BMI using the 2021 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey
  Hye-Ryeon Park, Na-Geong Kim
  Belitung Nursing Journal.2023; 9(6): 571.     CrossRef
• Effectiveness of obesity interventions among South Korean children and adolescents and importance of the type of intervention component: a meta-analysis
  Siyoung Choe, Jaesin Sa, Jean-Philippe Chaput, Deokjin Kim
  Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics.2022; 65(2): 98.     CrossRef
• Effects of Program to Promote Obesity Prevention Behaviors on Pre-Schoolers: Focused on Kindergartener in Korea
  Inju Hwang, Kyung-Sook Bang
  Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing.2021; 51(2): 188.     CrossRef
• Effectiveness of a combined obesity prevention program in South Korea for children from low-income families that included primary caregiver participation
  Namhee Park, Mihae Im
  Child Health Nursing Research.2021; 27(3): 211.     CrossRef
• An Integrative Literature Review of Interventions for School-aged Overweight and Obese Children
  Juhyun Jo, Sang-Youn Jang, Dajeong Kum, Jihee Lim, Jeongeun Kim
  Perspectives in Nursing Science.2019; 16(2): 75.     CrossRef
• Delphi Survey for Designing a Intervention Research Study on Childhood Obesity Prevention
  Min Jeong Kim, Eunju Sung, Eun Young Choi, Young-Su Ju, Eal-Whan Park, Yoo-Seock Cheong, Sunmi Yoo, Kyung Hee Park, Hyung Jin Choi, Seolhye Kim
  Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2017; 38(5): 284.     CrossRef
• Effects of an Abdominal Obesity Management Program on Physiological Bio-markers of Middle-aged Women in Korea: A Meta-analysis
  KyengJin Kim, HaeSook Hong, WanJu Park, SangJin Ko, YeonKyung Na
  The Korean Journal of Obesity.2016; 25(3): 138.     CrossRef
• Evidence of Interventions for Preventing Obesity of Children and Adolescents Using Existing Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
  Seolhye Kim, Eunju Sung, Sunmi Yoo
  Korean Journal of Health Promotion.2016; 16(4): 231.     CrossRef
• Professional Identity of Elementary School Health Teachers: A Grounded Theory Approach.
  Jin Ok Kwon, Jina Oh, Eun Ha Kim, Dae Dong Hahn
  Child Health Nursing Research.2015; 21(1): 64.     CrossRef
• Review of Meta-analysis Research on Exercise in South Korea
  Youngshin Song, Moonhee Gang, Sun-Ae Kim, In-Soo Shin
  Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing.2014; 44(5): 459.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The purpose of the study was to develop an emotional self-regulation program for obese children and to examine the program's effectiveness on depression, eating habits, and body mass index.
METHODS
The emotional self-regulation program was developed from theory-based strategies and a pre-post pilot study was conducted with 46 children (19: intervention, 27: control). The program included 6 weekly group sessions over 2 months. The embedded experimental model of concurrent mixed methods was used to better understand research outcomes by converging both quantitative and qualitative data. Anthropometric measurements and surveys were performed before and after the intervention. Three focus group interviews were conducted with all participants after intervention to explore their experiences.
RESULTS
The intervention group displayed decreased depression levels in the quantitative outcomes. The participants also expressed positive outcomes such as improvements in confidence, impulse management, intimacy, happiness, and losing weight.
CONCLUSION
These findings suggest that emotional self-regulation skills are crucial factors for obese children not only to manage their emotional problems but also to control their weight. Further research is needed with a larger sample size and randomized controlled trials.

Citations

• Effectiveness of obesity interventions among South Korean children and adolescents and importance of the type of intervention component: a meta-analysis
  Siyoung Choe, Jaesin Sa, Jean-Philippe Chaput, Deokjin Kim
  Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics.2022; 65(2): 98.     CrossRef
• Physical Activity Assessment of Preschool Children Using Accelerometer - Including Comparison of Reintegrating Counts of Different Epoch Lengths -
  Ji-Yeon Kim, Yeon-Jung Choi, Mun-Jeong Ju, Eun-Kyung Kim
  Journal of the Korean Dietetic Association.2016; 22(3): 214.     CrossRef

PURPOSE
The aim of this study was to explore the relationship of being from low-income families on children's behavior problems and obesity.
METHODS
The research design was a descriptive survey study, and the participants were 197 children from low-income families who took part in activities at a local children's center. They were selected through convenience sampling. The participants completed a questionnaire, BASC-2 (Behavior Assessment System for Children).
RESULTS
The results are as follows: 22.3% had obesity, a rate higher than that of children in general. Further, 37.3% had attention deficit problems, 33.8% had problems adapting to school and 49% had other adaption problem. There was a gender-specific difference with respect to all of the behavior problems.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study indicate a lack of an identified child policy for behavior problems and health, and suggest a need for various programs and policies which could lead to development of behavior screening programs for children from low-income families.

The problem of childhood obesity is accelerating throughout the world. Korea is no longer an exception to this problem. The following topics are discussed in this review article: 1) the linkage between childhood obesity and adult obesity, which is often associated with metabolic diseases such as type2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers; 2) characteristics of childhood obesity; 3) measurement of obesity and its unique problem; 4) recent trends in interventions for childhood obesity. Lastly, the author points out that nurses are best suited for carrying out interventions to prevent obesity in childhood. As childhood obesity is a risk factor for persistence of obesity into adulthood, the need to consider the priority of prevention of obesity during childhood is emphasized in this review.

PURPOSE
To compare normal weight children with obese children in terms of family factors, eating habits, and sociocognitive factors.
METHOD
This study compared 217 obese children with 231 normal standard weight children of 4th-6th graders from 7 elementary schools in Kangwon province. The study also surveyed 817 their parents using questionnaires in which familial factors, eating habits, and sociocognitive factors such as dietary self-efficacy, locus of control and self-esteem were included.
RESULTS
Obese children had more obese family members, more family members with chronic metabolic disease, and lower breast-feeding rate than normal weight group. Dietary self-efficacy was positively correlated with eating habits and locus of control while no correlation was found with obesity index.. Self-esteem was negatively correlate with obesity index. Both the parents and the childrens eating habits showed significant positive correlation to the obesity index.
CONCLUSION
These results implied familial factors, eating habits, and sociocognitive factors influenced childhood obesity. Thus, further research targeting to positive attitude toward familial dietary practices combined with significant sociocognitive factors, may lead to prevention and effective management of childhood obesity.

This study is to identify the characteristics of the growth and deveolpment, and to assess Obesity Index, BMI and Kaup Index of infants paticipated in a healthy breast-feeding contest. The subjects of this study were 94 breast- feeding infants, ages from 6 to 8 months. Their weight and height were measured and compared with Korean Standards. Their developmental state was tested by DDST(Denver Developmental Screening Test) standardized in Korea. The data were analyzed by using the SPSS-WIN 10.0. The result is as follows : 1. The weight of infants was more than Korean Standards, but the height was less. 2. There were statistically significant differences in Obesity Index, BMI and Kaup Index. Obese infants estimated by Obesity Index were about 10%, but by BMI and Kaup Index were 35.1% and 27.7%. 3. Spearman's rhos of Obesity Index and Kaup Index, Obesity Index and BMI, and Kaup Index and BMI were individually 0.526, 0.528 and 0.753. In conclusion, BMI should be added to the criteria for assessing healthy breast-feeding infants.

Behavior modification is an approach to decrease degree of obesity through changing maladaptive eating habit and life style. It produces small amount of weight loss but it has few side effects and low dropout rate. It also has great effectiveness on maintenance of decreased weight. This study was performed to investigate effects of behavior modification on physical variables, fat and thin habit, and self-esteem in obese elementary school children. Sixty two students of 4th, 5th, and 6th grade were selected from two elementary schools located in the suburbs of Seoul. Thirty four children in one school were assigned to experimental group and twenty eight children in another school were assigned to control group. All subjects were healthy and were not on any type of obesity control. Behavior modification, in this study, was consisted of introduction, self-monitoring and stimuli control, education about diet and physical activities, individual counseling and reinforcement, requesting personal assistance, cognitive restructuring, and closing and long-term planning. Experimental group was received 60 ~ 70 minutes of behavior modification once a week for 8 weeks from October 16 to December 22, 2000. Control group was not received any intervention. Data were collected before and after intervention by measuring physical variables, fat and thin habit, and self-esteem. Physical variables consisted of obesity index, skinfold thickness, body fat(percentage of body fat, fat mass, fat free mass), serum lipids(total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglyceride) and serum leptin. The results were as follows ; 1. physical variables 1)Obesity index of the experimental group was significantly decreased after behavior modification. But there was no significant difference between two groups. 2)The increase of skinfold thickness was significantly low in the experimental group compared to the control group. 3) Percentage of body fat and fat mass were significantly decreased in the experimental group. Fat free mass was significantly increased in the experimental group. 4) Total cholesterol, HDL-C, triglyceride and serum leptin between the experimental group and control group showed no significant difference. LDL-C was significantly decreased in the control group. 2. Thin habit score was significantly increased in the experimental group. In subcategories of habit, thin scores of life style, attitude, social relationship, nutrition were significantly increased in the experimental group. 3. Self-esteem score was significantly increased in the experimental group. These results indicate that behavior modification is effective in decreasing percentage of body fat and fat mass, in less increasing skinfold thickness and in increasing fat free mass, thin habit, and self-esteem. In conclusion, behavior modification can be used as safe and effective strategy for managing obesity in elementary school children.

PURPOSE
This study was performed to test an obesity management program for elementary school children. The program was assessed by examining its effects on the obesity, dietary attitudes, dietary habits, and exercise habits.
METHODS
The participants were 65 elementary school children, of which 32 were assigned for the experimental group and 33 for the control group. The experimental group received an 8 weeks obesity management program. The outcome variables were measured before and after the program. chi2-test and t-test were used to analyze the data.
RESULTS
After the obesity management program, the BMI and fat mass percentage in the experimental group were significantly reduced. The score for dietary attitudes and dietary habits changed in a positive direction.
CONCLUSIONS
The findings from this study suggest that the obesity management program was effective in decreasing the rate of obesity and increasing the score for dietary attitudes and dietary habits. The program should be effective in the management of obesity in elementary school children.

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to develop an effective obesity management program for elementary school children, based on the motivation theory.
METHOD
This study was a methodological study. A child obesity management program, based on the motivation theory was developed, a web site was made and children with obesity participated in the internet program. After the children finished the program, they evaluated the clinical validity of the program. The clinical validity was tested from Jun 12 to 16, 2006. The participants were 6 students. The evaluation tool was Keller's IMMS(Instructional Material Motivation Survey). Data were evaluated using means+/-SD for four major components A,R,C,S (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction), based on ARCS in the motivation theory.
RESULTS
The program developed in this study was named 'ARCS children obesity escape', and the URL is 'http://www.119kid.co.kr'. Regarding the four components of ARCS, the overall reaction of participants showed that they were very highly motivated by this program.
CONCLUSION
Utilizing the ARCS motivation strategies for solving obesity problems for children is an effective method to motivate the management of obesity, and can increase achievement motivation, attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction with the management of obesity. Thus, the program developed in this study is expected to reduce obesity in children, and become an important guide for obesity management and health improvement for children.

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of a obesity management program on BMI, body composition, knowledge, perception and attitudes, mood and exercise habits in obese elementary school children with the goal of developing nursing interventions to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Method
The study used a pre-experimental design with a one-group pre-post test. The content of the 8-week obesity management program included obesity education, diet control education, behavioral modification education, counseling, hand-reflexo massage, and exercise. Participants were 36 obese children who were students in elementary schools in K city. Data collection was done from October 4th to November 28th, 2005. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test.
RESULTS
After the students received the obesity management program, their BMI scores were significantly lowered, and scores for mood and excercise habits were significantly improved.
CONCLUSION
The results show this obesity management program is effective in changing the BMI, mood, and behavioral modifications in obese students. The results suggest that this program be utilized to manage obesity in obese children, and that this study be replicated to compare an experimental group with a control group in order to verify the effects of the obesity management program.