Version 2.1.1.0

Abstract

Grant Number:	2R44HD040702-02
PI Name:	SOUTHARD, DOUGLAS R.
PI Email:	dsouthard@hmcva.com
PI Title:
Project Title:	Preventing & treating childhood obesity with MetaKenkoh

Abstract: DESCRIPTION (provided by investigator): It is estimated that 13% of children aged 6 to 11 years are overweight, almost twice as many as 20 years ago. The health implications of this increasing prevalence are serious, due to associated increased risks of childhood diabetes, hypertension, and low self-esteem. Overweight children are also more likely to become overweight/obese adults, who are at higher risk for heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and some types of cancers. To address this public health concern, Health Management Consultants of VA proposes to build upon the Phase I MetaKenkoh project, an Internet-based, real-life-activity game for children and their parents aimed at preventing/treating childhood obesity. Specific aims are to: 1) Expand the futuristic story of MetaKenkoh; 2) Enhance existing puzzles/games; 3) Create new puzzles/games and characters; 4) Incorporate additional graphics, animation, and sound; 5) Provide peer comparisons to enhance motivation; 6) Develop an embedded Instant Messenger system; 7) Incorporate Internet-enabled physical activity sensors; 8) Design a resource website for parents; 9) Evaluate impact of the game on user physical activity and nutritional intake. MetaKenkoh could be used as part of school health and wellness programs, as a health education component of physician practices, or as an independent intervention via on-line subscription.

Thesaurus Terms:
Internet, child behavior, computer program /software, computer system design /evaluation, educational resource design /development, health education, obesity, play, weight loss
child physical development, communication, computer assisted instruction, computer assisted patient care, exercise, health behavior, pediatrics
child (0-11), clinical research, human subject

Institution:	HEALTH MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS OF VA
	OF VIRGINIA, INC.
	BLACKSBURG, VA 24060
Fiscal Year:	2003
Department:
Project Start:	01-JUN-2001
Project End:	31-JAN-2005
ICD:	NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
IRG:	ZRG1

---