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Jamie Barrand | Oct 16, 2015

Edmonton Oliver Primary Care Network program targets childhood obesity

A study underway by a team from the Edmonton Oliver Primary Care Network (PCN) in Edmonton, Canada, is utilizing new technology that could help parents keep better track of their children's diet and physical activity habits, thus decreasing the risks of childhood obesity.

Known as RIPPLE (the Resource Information Program for Parents on Lifestyle and Education), the technology includes screenings, intervention tools and referrals to treatment programs. In addition to providing information on childhood weight issues, it also offers advice related to children's lifestyle behaviors.

The program is offered to parents of children ages 5-17 while they are waiting to see pediatricians at the Allin Clinic. Answers to questions about their children's diet and physical activities are entered using a wireless tablet.

"Through this technology, parents are giving us better, more accurate information about their children's lifestyles. In turn, this helps us provide better support for families," Jillian Avis, a doctoral candidate with the Department of Pediatrics (Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry) at the University of Alberta, said.

Based on the answers entered, parents are offered handouts to help their children and families make healthier lifestyle choices.

"We're hoping to enhance parents' awareness and increase their motivation to support children's healthy-lifestyle behaviors," Dr. Geoff Ball, associate professor with the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Alberta, said. "We follow up after one month to determine what, if any, changes are taking place and to connect them to more resources, if necessary."

New resources will be added regularly to the program.

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