Weight loss programs that focus on changing behaviors can help obese children, according to a report from the United States Department of Health and Human Services Agency.

About 17 percent of American children are obese, which means that their body mass indices are in the 95th percentile for their age, weight, and height. Obesity puts these children at risk for diabetes, fatty liver disease, heart problems, and other medical maladies.

The children in the study ranged in age from eight to 16. Some attended programs that met outside of school once or twice a week for six to twelve months. The most effective ones emphasized good diet and exercise habits.

At the end of the programs, participants had lost between three and 23 pounds. Heavier children and those enrolled in the most intensive weight loss programs for teens achieved the best results.

"Obese children and their families may be discouraged about their weight, but our review found there are programs out there that can help kids to either gain weight more slowly as they grow or, when appropriate, lose weight," said Dr. Evelyn Whitlock, a director of the Kaiser Center for Health Research in Portland, Oregon.

Labels: behaviors, lifestyle, therapy