NCT07229508 · State University of New York at Buffalo
Developmental Trajectories of Reinforcer Pathology and Childhood Obesity
(TRACK)
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to understand how children's food preferences, physical activity, and decision-making change over time and how these behaviors relate to body weight and overall health.
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to understand how children's food preferences, physical activity, and decision-making change over time and how these behaviors relate to body weight and overall health.
Primary outcome measures
zBMI
Time frame: 0, 12, 24 and 36 months
Height and weight will be measured to determine zBMI using the CDC extended BMI-for-age growth charts. First, height (m) and weight (kg) will be used to calculate BMI (kg/m\^2), then, using the CDC extended BMI-for-age growth charts, a zBMI score will be determined based on the charts.
body fat
Time frame: 0, 12, 24 and 36 months
Body fat (% of body weight) will be measured using the Tanita BF-400 Total Body Analyzer.
percent change over the overweight BMI
Time frame: 0, 12, 24 and 36 months
Height and weight will be measured to calculate changes in overweight status of children. Change in percent overweight from 0, 12, 24, 36 months. First, height and weight will be used to calculate BMI (kg/m\^2), then CDC extended growth charts will be used to determine BMI percentile. Percent overweight is calculated as ((childBMI percentile - 85th BMI percentile)/(85th BMI percentile)) x 100. Percent over the age- and sex- specific 85th BMI percentile for children will be used.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Male and female children
- Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) or Hispanic families
- Children from low SES families (as defined by household education, eligibility for government assistance)
- Children in overweight/obese category (defined by range in each cohort)
Exclusion criteria
- Medical causes for obesity
- Stature below the 5th percentile
- Physical activity restrictions
- Psychopathology
- Medication use that affects activity or appetite
- Children that spend less than 65% of their time in participating parent's household
- BMI percentile criteria
- Liking of study foods and activities
- Dietary restrictions and food allergies
Where
- Buffalo, New York
Collaborators
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 17, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations