Wellness Warriors: Empowering Youth in the Battle against Obesity

by Salvatore Anzalone, MD, FAAP

Nationally, one in five children live with obesity, as reported by the American Academy of Pediatrics. This disease, which is defined as body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex, impacts some groups more than others. Demographics that are most at-risk for obesity include adolescents, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black children and children in low-income families who may not have consistent access to nutritious foods.

Of the children we serve at Healthcare Network ages 10 and up, nearly 1,500 have obesity. This is a significant problem, as childhood obesity can lead to increased health issues in adulthood, like obesity, joint problems and blood pressure issues.

With support from Naples Children and Education Foundation (NCEF), founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, Healthcare Network has launched Wellness Warriors, a proactive, comprehensive and culturally appropriate effort to reduce childhood obesity. As thelargest pediatric care provider in Collier County, Healthcare Network’s uniquely positioned to lead this work. The program combines nutritional, medical and behavioral health care, as well as family involvement alongside child-focused interventions to create lasting positive change.

Healthcare Network partnered with the University of Florida Department of Endocrinology and University of Central Florida College of Medicine to identify the needs and the highest-risk communities, which include Immokalee, Golden Gate and East Naples, and to develop a protocol based on evidence-based guidelines.

102 Collier County children who qualified as obese were identified to be part of a pilot program that included nutritional counseling, exercise and behavioral health support. The pilot program identified barriers, such as motivation, family history of obesity and chronic disease, transportation, time and cultural factors, such as diet.

The pilot program demonstrated measurable success in reducing BMI among participants. Overall, 55% of children who completed three or more registered dietitian (RD) visits saw a reduction in BMI, and among those with six or more RD visits, 100% achieved a decrease in BMI. This strong correlation between program engagement and improved outcomes validated the approach and informed the development of Wellness Warriors, designed to maximize sustained participation and holistic support for children and their families.

Once patients are identified, they are invited to the program conditionally and must complete a motivational and behavioral health assessment before being accepted. The program follows American Academy of Pediatric guidelines and begins with baseline measurements, including fitness and medical tests, routine visits with a physician and nutritionist, as well as screenings for eating disorders and other mental health needs. Diet, BMI and bloodwork are routinely monitored, and the program is adjusted as needed.

Education and parental involvement are integral parts of the program. Take 11-year-old Nathan Blagg as an example – Blagg and his mother had a session with Wellness Warriors’ nutritionist to discuss what a healthy plate should look like. Through his participation in the program, Blagg, a picky eater, has become open to trying new foods, like broccoli, and avoiding sugary drinks at restaurants, rather opting for water. With the right education, making the effort to better your diet becomes easier.

Healthcare Network also works to educate at-risk families on how they can adjust their cultural dishes to better serve their health and wellbeing. Obesity impacts ethnic groups at a higher frequency, and while deeply rooted in heritage, many dishes are high in carbs and calories. Healthcare Network works with families to recommend tweaks to traditional recipes to make them healthier while maintaining the flavors and traditions that they love.

Adolescents already involved in the program have reported increased happiness and self-confidence, and Healthcare Network hopes to provide 400 children in Collier County with the same feeling of accomplishment and empowerment in the next two years.

To learn more about Wellness Warriors and see if your child qualifies, visit HealthcareSWFL.org/Childrens-Care or call 239.658.3000.

About the Author

Salvatore Anzalone, MD, FAAP, is a Director of Pediatrics and Vice-President of Clinical Business Development at Healthcare Network. Healthcare Network provides high-quality pediatric care focused on the health and well-being of children at every stage of development. From routine checkups and immunizations to dental care and behavioral health, the pediatric team is committed to supporting families throughout Southwest Florida. To make an appointment with a pediatric provider, call 239-658-3000 or visit healthcareswfl.org