WeChat weight program shows promise for kids with autism

NCT ID NCT07514910

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Hunan Normal University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether a 16-week lifestyle program delivered through WeChat could help children with autism (ages 8-12) manage their weight. 276 families were split into three groups: usual care, the WeChat program alone, or the program plus weekly group coaching. The main goal was to see if the program could reduce BMI z-scores, a measure of weight relative to age and sex.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: WeChat-based lifestyle intervention (behavioral)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a scalable, low-cost way to help children with autism maintain a healthy weight.
What could go wrong: This is a completed trial, but results may not apply outside China or to children with different needs. The intervention is behavioral, so effects may vary.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism autism spectrum disorder Obesity obesity disorder prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

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

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER OBESITY PEDIATRIC OVERWEIGHT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shanghai University of Sport

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, 200438, China

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