Exploring the acceptability of a specialist obesity treatment intervention (Fast Track to Health) for adolescents; a mixed-method study.

Background

Fast Track to Health was a 12-month intervention for adolescents with obesity and associated complications. Adolescents followed a very low-energy diet (VLED) and intermittent (IER) or continuous energy restriction (CER). This study explored adolescents', parents', and dietitians' perspectives of the intervention.

Methods

A convergent parallel mixed-methods evaluation was conducted. Acceptability questionnaires were collected from adolescents (Week-16: n=113, Week-52: n=88) and parents (Week-16: n=108, Week-52: n=80). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents (n=14), parents (n=11), and dietitians (n=6) at Week-52. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed.

Results

Adolescents rated enjoyability (score 0-100) at Week-16 [Mean (SD) IER: 63.5 (21.1) vs. CER: 65.9 (20.2), p=0.550] and Week-52 [IER: 67.2 (18.1) vs. CER: 61.0 (23.4), p=0.198], showing no significant difference between groups. Most parents reported benefits at Week-16 (IER: 86% vs. CER: 93%, p=0.263) and Week-52 (IER: 79% vs. CER: 83%, p=0.717). Adolescents positively rated their experience with dietitians. Qualitative feedback emphasized the impact of clear dietary advice, easy and frequent access to support, continuity of care, and family engagement.

Conclusions

This evaluation offers insights into a specialised dietary intervention for adolescents. Findings can inform future obesity treatments for adolescents in outpatient tertiary healthcare settings.