Caregivers Perceptions about Discussing Children’s Weight: A Pilot Study

Background: Childhood obesity poses serious health problems, many of which have life-long repercussions. A major gap in current knowledge relates to caregivers perceptions about the role of the dental team in the provision of weight-related counseling. Our aim was to address this question by obtaining in-depth information regarding caregiver's perceptions about the role of the pediatric dental team in healthy weight-related counseling. Methods: This qualitative investigation used semi-structured, face-to-face, 45-minute interviews of English-speaking caregivers of children ages 4-6 who were receiving routine dental care in a dental school-based clinic. Interviews were transcribed and coded using standardized methodologies for qualitative research. The analytical approach was thematic and iterative, using ATLAS/ti data analysis software. Interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was obtained. Results: Theoretical saturation was obtained at 15 interviews, with two central themes emerging. Caregivers were 1) highly receptive to and expected the dental team to provide cariesrelated nutrition counseling and 2) generally receptive to healthy-weight counseling, while emphasizing that rapport/compassion would be key for effective communication. Conclusions: Previous investigations have shown that pediatric dentists have concerns that they may offend caregivers by broaching the topic of weight-related counseling. In this pilot study, we found caregivers expressed respect for the dental team's knowledge of weight and valued a compassionate approach in the context of an established rapport. The pediatric dental team has an opportunity to address childhood obesity through routine screening/assessment and the provision of nutrition-related counseling.