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The Development of a Web-Based Program to Reduce Dietary Salt Intake in Schoolchildren: Study Protocol
Carley Ann Grimes1, Alison Booth1, Durreajam Khokhar1
1Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
JMIR Research Protocols
|June 2, 2017
Summary
High salt intake in Victorian schoolchildren necessitates interventions. The Digital Education to Limit Salt Intake in the Home (DELISH) program, a web-based tool, was developed and pilot-tested to reduce children's dietary salt and improve related knowledge and behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Nutrition
- Digital Health Interventions
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Schoolchildren in Victoria, Australia, exhibit high salt intake levels.
- Reducing dietary salt is crucial for preventing future cardiovascular health issues in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and pilot test the Digital Education to Limit Salt Intake in the Home (DELISH) program.
- To assess the program's effectiveness in reducing children's dietary salt intake.
- To improve child and parent knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors concerning salt consumption.
Main Methods:
- A 5-week, web-based intervention targeting 7-10 year old schoolchildren and their parents.
- Single-arm, pretest-posttest design to evaluate changes in salt intake via 24-hour urinary sodium excretion.
- Online surveys for children and parents on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors; feasibility assessed through process measures and interviews.
Main Results:
- Pilot testing of initial web sessions showed high engagement (95-100% enjoyment) with interactive elements.
- Feedback indicated sessions were text-heavy, leading to simplification and development of additional content.
- The DELISH program was implemented from June-December 2016; full results were anticipated by end of 2017.
Conclusions:
- This is the first Australian study to evaluate a web-based program for reducing primary school children's salt intake.
- The DELISH program shows potential for acceptability and effectiveness in lowering salt intake.
- Further testing via a randomized controlled trial is recommended if the program proves effective.
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