Free summer camps may curb childhood obesity in Low-Income kids

NCT ID NCT04072549

Completed Prevention Sponsor: University of South Carolina Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether offering free summer day camps with physical activity, enrichment, and meals could reduce unhealthy weight gain in 651 first- to third-graders from low-income households. The camps removed cost barriers that often lead to sedentary time and poor diet during summer break. Researchers measured changes in BMI, physical activity, sleep, diet, and screen time to see if this approach helps prevent obesity.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Free summer day camp program with financial incentives
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could offer a low-cost way to prevent childhood obesity in low-income families by removing cost barriers to healthy summer activities.
What could go wrong: This is a completed behavioral study, not a drug trial. Results may not apply to all communities, and long-term effects beyond summer are unknown.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Obesity obesity disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

OBESITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Michael Beets

Columbia, South Carolina, 29208, United States
University of South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina, 29201, United States

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