A Comprehensive Process Evaluation of the Solmaz Institute: A Non-Clinical Childhood Obesity Program in Hickory, NC
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Authors
Crooks, Blaikley
Issue Date
2025-05-28
Type
Other
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Description/Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity is a major public health concern in the U.S., affecting nearly
20% of children, with projections suggesting over half may be impacted by 2050. This complex
condition results from behavioral, environmental, genetic, and socioeconomic factors, leading to
serious physical and mental health risks. Diagnosis typically involves Body Mass Index (BMI)
and other health indicators. Key risk factors include poor diet, inactivity, food insecurity, mental
health issues, and genetics. Treatment includes both clinical approaches in outpatient settings and
non-clinical, community-based interventions focused on prevention and lifestyle change. This
paper evaluates the Solmaz Institute, a free, non-clinical program at Lenoir-Rhyne University
that provides nutrition counseling and fitness coaching to children with obesity. Methodology:
Through chart reviews, interviews, and statistical analysis, this evaluation examined program
adherence to best practices and the relationships between various indicators of client
engagement. Results: Linear regression showed no significant relationship between response
times and either office staff presence (R = -0.01, p = 0.88) or initial parent meeting attendance (R
= -0.06, p = 0.43). However, strong, significant correlations were found between parent meeting
attendance and RD meeting attendance (R = 0.91, p = 0.00), and between RD and fitness session
attendance (R = 0.83, p = 0.00), accounting for 82% and 68% of the variance, respectively. No
correlation was found between the number of fitness interns and fitness session attendance (R =
0.04, p = 0.64). Conclusion: The findings indicate that while the Solmaz Institute largely aligns
with evidence-based guidelines, there are opportunities for improved coordination and client
follow-through. With continued enhancement, the Institute is well-positioned to support
longterm health outcomes for children affected by obesity in Catawba County.