Weight management recommendations for youth with Down syndrome: Expert recommendations

Abstract

Youth with Down syndrome (DS) have a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity compared to the general youth population. Due to physiological and cognitive differences observed in youth with DS, weight management recommendations developed for the general population, may not be suitable for youth with DS. However, there are no recent recommendations for weight management in youth with DS. A workgroup of clinicians and researchers with extensive experience working with youth with DS came together to give clinicians and families guidance for weight management in youth with DS. Recommendations were developed by the workgroup via a methodical, deliberative process. After the initial development of the recommendations, they were shared with an expert review panel and caregivers who rated the strength of the recommendation and strength of the evidence. The workgroup moved forward the recommendations which the review panels rated as strong. Eight recommendations were developed which focused on screening for overweight and obesity, screening for health conditions that may impact dietary intake and physical activity, screening for feeding difficulties, setting appropriate recommendations for dietary intake and physical activity, and well as prevention and treatment of overweight and obesity using evidence-based strategies. These recommendations can be implemented by clinicians working with youth with Down syndrome as well as the family, school, and other relevant entities.

Comprehensive Care for Adults with Down Syndrome in Primary Care Settings

“…The prevalence of being overweight and/or obese among adults with DS ranges from 23% to 70% 19 . Other studies showed an obesity prevalence rate of 49% among DS youth, compared with 39% in the general youth population, and in a multicenter study, 94% of adults were found to have obesity 20,21 . Risk factors for obesity in this population include hypothyroidism, hypotonia, a lower resting metabolic rate, poor dietary habits, and insufficient physical activity 22 .…”

“…19 Other studies showed an obesity prevalence rate of 49% among DS youth, compared with 39% in the general youth population, and in a multicenter study, 94% of adults were found to have obesity. 20,21 Risk factors for obesity in this population include hypothyroidism, hypotonia, a lower resting metabolic rate, poor dietary habits, and insufficient physical activity. 22 The current screening recommendations to address obesity in adults with DS entail an annual evaluation of body mass index at the primary care setting.…”

Exploring the Complex Interplay of Obesity, Allergic Diseases, and Sleep-Disordered Breathing In Children

“…Studies show that youth with DS experience a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity compared to their peers in the general population. Estimates suggest that 49% to 80% of young individuals with DS are overweight or obese, with this number rising to 90% by adulthood [22]. The aetiology of obesity in youth with DS is multifactorial [22].…”

“…Estimates suggest that 49% to 80% of young individuals with DS are overweight or obese, with this number rising to 90% by adulthood [22]. The aetiology of obesity in youth with DS is multifactorial [22].…”

Brief report: Physical activity assessment and counseling in adults with Down syndrome

“…Low physical activity levels are known to increase the risk for co‐occurring chronic medical conditions, including osteoporosis and dementia, for which individuals with Down syndrome are at increased risk (Agiovlasitis et al, 2020; Bull, 2020; Chicoine et al, 2021; Oreskovic et al, 2020). In addition, individuals with Down syndrome are at increased risk for medical conditions impacted by physical activity, including respiratory and mental health conditions (Ptomey et al, 2023). Physician counseling on physical activity may be helpful in motivating patients and caregivers to increase physical activity levels in adults with Down syndrome, and support in creating physical activity plans that match with the patient's capacity.…”