The 10-year status of pediatric gastroenterologists' perception of their roles in the management of childhood obesity.
Sara Karjoo, Senthilkumar Sankararaman, Fotini Tania Mitsinikos, Marwa Abu El Haija, Sheela Mahendra, Ayesha Baig, Ruba A Abdelhadi, Ruben E Quiros-Tejeira, Timothy Sentongo
Abstract
Open AccessIn 2013, a survey of NASPGHAN members on their involvement in managing pediatric obesity revealed that most pediatric gastroenterologists viewed their roles as primarily supportive, focusing on the management of obesity-related gastrointestinal comorbidities. This 10-year follow-up survey, which targeted pediatric gastroenterology programs and practices, found similar perceptions, along with an increased interest in learning about obesity pharmacotherapy. Additionally, most programs and practices reported limited access to dedicated dietitians, a lack of funding, and a desire for greater institutional support for multidisciplinary programs addressing obesity. Notably, none of the funded programs cited philanthropy as a source of funding. These findings underscore the need for greater advocacy to increase dietitian support and educational opportunities in obesity pharmacotherapy, the development of multidisciplinary teams, and the exploration of philanthropic support for innovative programs in the management of children with obesity.