The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of a comprehensive treatment for African-American adolescents with obesity and their overweight or obese caregiver (e.g., parent). Families who decide to participate in this study will be randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups: the FIT Families group or the Home-Based Family Support (HBFS) group. This means participants have a 50/50 chance (like flipping a coin) of being in either group. Participants randomized to FIT Families will have sessions with a community health worker (CHW) in the home or community once or twice weekly based on the family's preference for the first three months, and weekly for the second three months. Some of the sessions might occur virtually (online) if needed. Participants randomized to HBFS will receive six months of weekly family counseling in their home or community with a community health worker (CHW). Some of these sessions might occur virtually (online) if needed. Participants in both groups will receive education and support for healthier lifestyles.
The study will last 18 months. During the 18-month study period, youth and caregivers will wear a FitBit activity tracker during the six months of the intervention and then for 2 weeks at the fourth assessment, complete study assessments, have their height, weight, and blood pressure measured, and provide finger prick blood samples to be tested for blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Potential benefits to caregivers and youth who participate in the study include: positive changes in healthy lifestyle behaviors and weight loss, decrease in health risks associated with obesity, and improved family relations, though these cannot be guaranteed.