Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) represent some of the most significant public health challenges facing our society. Disparities in obesity and T2D emerge early in life and disproportionately impact Latino populations. Latino youth exhibit higher rates of insulin resistance [1] and pre-diabetes [2] than white youth and nearly 30% of obese Latino youth exhibit pre-diabetes [3]. These data support estimates by the CDC that up to 50% of all Latino youth born in the year 2000 will develop T2D in their lifetime [4]. In addition to adverse physical health, recent data suggest that obese Latino youth are more likely to experience psychosocial consequences including symptoms of depression and anxiety [5] as well as reduced perceived quality of life (QoL). The extent and magnitude of adverse negative health consequences among obese Latino youth set the stage for long-term morbidity and mortality. Therefore, interventions aimed at improving physical and psychosocial health out- comes among Latino youth are urgently needed.
