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Effectiveness of a primary school-based intervention to reduce overweight
Wilma Jansen1, Gerard Borsboom, Abraham Meima
1Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. w.jansen@ggd.rotterdam.nl
Summary
The Lekker Fit! school program effectively reduced overweight and improved fitness in younger primary school children (grades 3-5). This multi-component intervention shows promise for tackling childhood obesity in urban settings.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric obesity research
- School-based health interventions
- Physical activity promotion
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern, particularly in low-income, urban areas.
- School environments offer a crucial setting for implementing health interventions.
- Previous studies highlight the need for effective, multi-component strategies to address overweight and fitness in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of the Lekker Fit! school-based intervention program on overweight prevalence and physical fitness in primary school children.
- To assess the effectiveness of a multi-component approach combining physical education, extracurricular activities, and education.
Main Methods:
- A cluster randomized controlled trial involving 20 schools and 2,622 children (ages 6-12) in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
- The intervention included three physical education sessions weekly, additional sports activities, and an educational program.
- Primary outcomes measured were weight status, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and 20-meter shuttle run fitness.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in overweight prevalence (OR 0.53) and waist circumference (-1.29 cm) were observed in younger children (grades 3-5).
- Improved fitness (20 m shuttle run: 0.57 laps) was noted in grades 3-5.
- No significant effects on BMI or outcomes for older children (grades 6-8) were found.
Conclusions:
- The multi-component Lekker Fit! intervention is effective for reducing overweight and improving fitness in younger primary school children (grades 3-5).
- School-based programs focusing on physical activity are vital for combating childhood obesity.
- Further research may explore adaptations for older age groups and long-term effects.
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