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Autism Spectrum Disorder And The Child's Weight–Related Behaviors: A Parents' Perspective, Michele Polfuss, Norah L. Johnson, Susan A. Bonis, Fallon Apollon, Kathleen Sawin

College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications

Purpose

To explore parent perspectives of how the attributes of their child's autism spectrum disorder(ASD) impact nutrition, physical activity, screen time behaviors and risk for obesity. Secondarily, we examined the parent's perception of the healthcare providers (HCP) influence on these weight-related behaviors.

Design and method

We conducted and audio-recorded telephone interviews with parents of children with ASD (n = 8) using a structured question guide. Data were transcribed and thematic analysis was conducted. Issues surrounding weight-related behaviors and parental strategies used were reported.

Results

Two overarching themes with eight subthemes emerged: (1) Challenges related to features of ASD (subthemes included …

Body Composition Measurement In Children With Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida And Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review Of The Literature, Michele L. Polfuss, Paula E. Papanek, Fallon Meyer-Wentland, Andrea Moosreiner, Lenore R. Wilkas, Kathleen J. Sawin

Exercise Science Faculty Research and Publications

Pediatric obesity is a major health concern that has an increased prevalence in children with special needs. In order to categorize a child’s weight, an assessment of body composition is needed. Obtaining an accurate body composition measurement in children with special needs has many challenges associated with it. This perplexing scenario limits the provider’s ability to screen, prevent and treat an abnormal weight status in this vulnerable population. This systematic review summarizes common methods of body composition measurements, their strengths and limitations and reviews the literature when measurements were used in children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida and spinal cord …