A school-based physical activity promotion intervention in children: rationale and study protocol for the PREVIENE...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Public Health Interventions
• School Health Programs

Background:

• Childhood physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors are significant public health concerns.
• School-based interventions are crucial for promoting physical activity in children.
• The PREVIENE Project addresses the need for low-cost, feasible interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of five school-based interventions on physical activity, fitness, anthropometry, sleep health, academic achievement, and quality of life in primary school children.
• To compare the impact of individual interventions (active commuting, Physical Education, recess, sleep health) versus an integrated program.
• To provide evidence for implementing effective physical activity promotion strategies in schools.

Main Methods:

• A total of 300 third-grade children (8-9 years) from six schools participated in 8-week interventions or a control group.
• Outcomes measured include physical activity (accelerometry), fitness (ALPHA battery), anthropometry, sleep health (accelerometers, diaries, questionnaires), academic achievement, and quality of life.
• The generalized linear model was used to analyze the effectiveness of interventions on measured outcomes.

Main Results:

• Data collection and analysis are ongoing; specific results are not yet available in the abstract.
• The study is designed to provide objective and subjective measures of various health and academic outcomes.
• The generalized linear model will be employed to determine the statistical significance of intervention effects.

Conclusions:

• The PREVIENE Project will offer valuable insights into the effectiveness and implementation of diverse school-based physical activity interventions.
• Findings will guide the development and adoption of evidence-based programs to enhance children's health and well-being.
• The study emphasizes a comprehensive approach to promoting physical activity in the school setting.