Ethnic Influences on Stress, Energy Balance and Obesity in Adolescents

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE · Dec 6, 2017

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how race, stress, and lifestyle choices affect weight and energy balance in young girls aged 13 to 17. The study focuses on African-American, Hispanic, and Caucasian females, exploring how these factors contribute to obesity in both everyday settings and controlled environments. Researchers aim to understand the different ways these influences can impact health, which is important for creating better support and treatment options for adolescents struggling with weight issues.

To be eligible for the study, participants need to be girls aged 13 to 17 who are either African-American, Hispanic, or Caucasian, and they should have a range of body weights—from normal to overweight and obese. However, girls with very low body weight, those on certain medications, or those with specific health or mental health conditions won't be able to take part. If selected, participants can expect to be involved in assessments and activities that help researchers learn more about the relationship between stress, physical activity, and weight management. This study could provide valuable insights for improving health outcomes in adolescents facing obesity.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • African-American, Hispanic, Non-Hispanic White females from 13-17 years old and Tanner Stage ≥III.
• • BMI values will be balanced (1/3rd normal, 1/3rd overweight and 1/3rd obese range percentile BMI values) using Center for Disease Control criteria
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Participants with a BMI below the normal range, trying to lose weight, on medications that affect appetite or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, or with a history of bariatric surgery, will be excluded.
• • Restrained or binge eaters, individuals who score below 50 on a 100 mm Visual Analog Scale for foods provided in the study, or those allergic to these foods will be excluded.
• • Participants with major psychiatric disorders (e.g., anxiety, eating, mood, substance use disorders) or medical problems (e.g., endocrine disorders or unstable cardiac, pulmonary or renal conditions) will be excluded.
• • Pregnant females, or those suspected of being pregnant, will be excluded.