OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between parents' underestimation of their child's weight status and concerns about their child's weight and health. METHODS: We conducted interviews with parents in an urban pediatric clinic (January through June 2006). Children's height and weight were measured at the visit using standard techniques. RESULTS: 193 children were included (response rate 87%, 18 months-9 years, 70% black); 31% of parents underestimated their child's weight status (46% of overweight children, 24% of normal weight). Parents of normal-weight children who underestimated were more likely to be concerned about their child's weight (39% vs 2.9%, P < .001) than those who did not underestimate. Parents of overweight children who underestimated were less likely to be concerned about their child's weight (7.7% vs 59%, P < .001) than those who recognized their children as overweight. CONCLUSIONS: Many parents continue to underestimate their child's weight status. These perceptions may present a barrier to the prevention of childhood obesity.
OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between parents' underestimation of their child's weight status and concerns about their child's weight and health. METHODS: We conducted interviews with parents in an urban pediatric clinic (January through June 2006). Children's height and weight were measured at the visit using standard techniques. RESULTS: 193 children were included (response rate 87%, 18 months-9 years, 70% black); 31% of parents underestimated their child's weight status (46% of overweight children, 24% of normal weight). Parents of normal-weight children who underestimated were more likely to be concerned about their child's weight (39% vs 2.9%, P < .001) than those who did not underestimate. Parents of overweight children who underestimated were less likely to be concerned about their child's weight (7.7% vs 59%, P < .001) than those who recognized their children as overweight. CONCLUSIONS: Many parents continue to underestimate their child's weight status. These perceptions may present a barrier to the prevention of childhood obesity.
Authors: Marloes Rietmeijer-Mentink; Winifred D Paulis; Marienke van Middelkoop; Patrick J E Bindels; Johannes C van der Wouden Journal: Matern Child Nutr Date: 2012-10-01 Impact factor: 3.092
Authors: Emilie L M Ruiter; Jenneke J E H Saat; Gerard R M Molleman; Gerdine A J Fransen; Koos van der Velden; Cornelia H M van Jaarsveld; Rutger C M E Engels; Willem J J Assendelft Journal: PLoS One Date: 2020-01-16 Impact factor: 3.240