Year: 2025 | Month: January-March | Volume: 10 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 46-63
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/gijhsr.20250106
A Systematic Review of Qualitative Experiences in Tier 2 Weight Management Programs in School-Aged Children
Adisa Faithful. O1, Adisa Excel, E2
1Department of Nursing, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
2Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun, Nigeria.
Corresponding Author: Adisa Faithful. O
ABSTRACT
Background: Childhood obesity, affecting numerous young children from various backgrounds has gradually become a rampant problem. Weight management programs, especially Tier 2, serve as opportunities to prevent and manage obesity among these children and their families, paying special attention to behavioural, physical, and environmental elements of the affected individual.
Method: The study uses a systematic review approach to analyse findings from existing qualitative literature to assess the personal experiences of families and children managing obesity through Tier 2 weight management option. Some of the factors assessed centred around family background, school management, adherence to the program, and structure of the weight management program.
Findings: The recurring barriers that impact affected individuals’ adherence to weight management programs included finance and lack of time. Findings showed that family background and culture paid a significant part in participants’ engagement with weight management programs. Support from school, parents, and the program itself were found to be essential in promoting adherence.
Conclusion: For Tier 2 weight management programs to be effective, it is crucial to tailor the programs’ offerings to consider various cultural beliefs, financial status of families, as well appropriate mental health services for those participating in the program. It is suggested that further studies can build on the findings from this study and examine the cultural diversity of participants of Tier 2 weight management programs.
Keywords: Child Obesity, Weight Management Programs, Qualitative Experience, Tier 2 weight management approach