NAPLES, Fla. - eTradeWire -- Healthcare Network, the largest pediatric care provider in Collier County, has launched a new evidence-based, multi-disciplinary initiative to tackle the rise in obesity among local children and teens.

Made possible by grants from the Naples Children and Education Foundation (NCEF), founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wellness Warriors is a proactive, comprehensive and culturally appropriate effort to reduce childhood obesity through nutritional, medical and behavioral health care, as well as family involvement alongside child-focused interventions.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, one in five U.S. children and adolescents are obese, which affects some groups more than others, including adolescents, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black children and children in families with lower incomes. For children, obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95^th percentile for age and sex.

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Healthcare Network partnered with the University of Florida Department of Endocrinology and University of Central Florida College of Medicine to identify the needs and the highest-risk communities, which include Immokalee, Golden Gate and East Naples. The team worked collaboratively to develop a protocol based on evidence-based guidelines.

The pilot program demonstrated measurable success in reducing BMI among participating children. Overall, 55% of children who completed three or more registered dietitian (RD) visits saw a reduction in BMI, underscoring the value of ongoing support. Notably, among those with six or more RD visits, 100% achieved a decrease in BMI. This strong correlation between program engagement and improved outcomes validated the approach and informed the development of Wellness Warriors, designed to maximize sustained participation and holistic support for children and their families.

Once patients are identified, they are invited conditionally and must complete a motivational and behavioral health assessment before being accepted into the program. The program follows American Academy of Pediatric guidelines and begins with baseline measurements, including fitness and medical tests, routine visits with a physician and nutritionist, as well as screenings for eating disorders and other mental health needs. Diet, BMI and bloodwork are routinely monitored, and the program is adjusted as needed. Education is an integral part of the program, which engages parents as well.

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While the program is managed by Healthcare Network, it extends to private practices as well. The goal is to reach 400 children in Collier County over the course of the two-year program.

To learn more about the program, visit HealthcareSWFL.org/Childrens-Care (https://healthcareswfl.org/services/childrens-care/).