Work

The Gap in Integrated Pediatric Care: A Systematic Review of Family-Based Weight Management for Children Living with HIV

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Background: As children living with HIV (CWH) achieve longer life expectancy, they face an emerging 'double burden' of infectious and non-communicable diseases, specifically pediatric overweight and obesity (OW/OB). This risk is exacerbated by weight-inducing Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs). We systematically reviewed family-based pediatric weight management interventions for CWH aged 6 to 12 globally. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42024554376), we searched Medline, Embase, and Cochrane (2007-2024) for clinic-linked behavioral interventions reporting body composition or behavioral outcomes. Results: From 1026 records and 7 full-text reviews, no studies met the inclusion criteria. Excluded studies lacked clinical integration or targeted adult populations. Conclusion: This 'null' finding represents a critical evidence gap and clinic concern: CWH receive weight-inducing medications without evidence-based behavioral support. Future research must prioritize integrating care models using implementation science frameworks (RE-AIM/CFIR) to bridge the gap between primary HIV care and obesity management in resource-constrained settings.

Source: Sage Open Pediatrics

DOI: 10.1177/30502225261421700

Authors: Joshua S. Yudkin, Christopher Owens, James Gilbreath, Charles Martyn-Dickens

Institutions: Texas A&M University, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Fogarty International Center