Abstract
Background Lambeth has implemented a healthy weight care pathway including capacity building of multi-agency staff. Successes include being the only borough in the country to see statistical reductions in childhood obesity over 5 years; but the challenge of 39.2% of 10–11-year olds leaving primary school as overweight/obese persists. When families approach GPs to validate the National Child Measurement Programme feedback, challenges include interpretation and explanation of body mass index (BMI). GPs have also felt uncomfortable raising the issue in routine consultations.
Aim To understand potential enablers to raising the issue of unhealthy weight in children in general practice.
Method 70 staff (GPs 58%; Nurses 25%; GP registrar/trainee 7%; and HCA/other 10%) completed a bespoke childhood obesity capacity building workshop (accredited by the Royal College of GPs). Using scenario-based activities and end of session written questionnaire we gathered: knowledge and perceptions of weight measures, role of diet, nutrition and physical activity, as well as current blocks and potential enablers for brief intervention.
Results Less than 5% of participants were able to identify a very overweight child by visual inspection. Confidence in raising the issue was reported due to enhanced knowledge of energy intake, physical activity and provision of a BMI wheel (40%), new ways of raising the issue (30%), understanding of supportive services in Lambeth (30%).
Conclusion Supportive measures identified within a whole systems approach including role of schools, government, public health and the CCG are informing future planning.
- © British Journal of General Practice 2018