Los equipos de pediatria ante la obesidad infantil: un estudio cualitativo dentro del proyecto STOP

Abstract

Introduction: Understanding the underlying factors that influence the approach to overweight and obesity in children is basic to best support families searching a solution to this important public health problem. Objective: To assess attitudes and feelings of paediatric staff in addressing overweight and childhood obesity to parents, exploring perceived barriers and facilitators, for an effective care. Participants and method: Qualitative study by means of individual semi-structured questionnaires of paediatric staff (paediatricians and paediatrician nurses; n = 57; 68% female) of primary health care centres and hospitals in Mallorca. Thematic analysis was done. Results: Three themes emerged from the data: 'Parents' attitude in childhood obesity >> (sub themes 'The conscience of parents >>, 'The parents ask for help >>), 'Paediatric staff and childhood obesity >> (sub-themes 'Approaching to the problem: The interview with parents >>, 'Looking together for the solution >>), and 'System barriers >> (sub-themes 'Improving teamwork and health policy >>, 'Family participation in addressing childhood obesity >>). Conclusions: Paediatric staffs know how to treat childhood obesity, but demand training on motivation. Effectivity on therapy of childhood obesity will be obtained after parents/carers recognize the problem and establish a trustful relationship with paediatric staff. The health system is still a barrier to the activity of paediatric personnel.