Obesity Prevention for Individuals with Spina Bifida.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
Obesity is a common comorbidity in individuals with spina bifida. Carrying excess weight exacerbates the inherent health challenges associated with spina bifida, impedes the individual's ability to self-manage their condition, and creates further challenges for family members and caregivers. This manuscript provides a narrative review of key issues for understanding and prevention of obesity in persons with spina bifida within the context of the social ecological model.


RECENT FINDINGS
Specific variables related to obesity and spina bifida include individual factors (i.e., body composition and measurement issues, energy needs, eating patterns, physical activity, and sedentary activity) family factors (i.e., parenting/family, peers), community factors (i.e., culture, built environment, healthcare and healthcare providers, and school), and societal factors (i.e., policy issues). Due to the complex etiology of obesity and its increased prevalence in individuals with spina bifida, it is critical to initiate prevention efforts early with a multifactorial approach for this at-risk population. Increased research is warranted to support these efforts.
['Polfuss|Michele|M|', 'Bandini|Linda G|LG|', 'Sawin|Kathleen J|KJ|']
D001823:Body Composition D002149:Energy Intake D004777:Environment D015444:Exercise D005195:Family Relations D005247:Feeding Behavior D006801:Humans D009752:Nutritional Status D009765:Obesity D015995:Prevalence D012307:Risk Factors D016135:Spinal Dysraphism
Obesity Prevention Spina bifida Body composition Physical activity Body mass index Myelomeningocele Nutrition Overweight Physical disabilities Special needs