Evaluating an Evidence-Based Program that Addresses Childhood Obesity in a Middle School

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Christina Smith (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate the implementation of the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program in a rural Eastern North Carolina middle school. The objectives were to: 1) review descriptive and demographic data of select group of high risk students,2) interview key informants, and 3) observe the implementation of the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program in the school. // Background: The evidence-based program, 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go!, reinforces the message of 5 fruits and vegetables, 2 hours of screen time, 1 hour of physical activity, and 0 sugary drinks (Canterbury & Hedlund, 2013). This project was completed in a middle school with a diverse population of Latino (34%), African American (33%), and White (32%) students. High risk (HR) students were identified as having a BMI greater than or equal to the 95th percentile. // Implementation: Demographic and descriptive data of selected students were gathered through a record audit. Interview data was used to better understand of the use of the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program. Observational data was gathered to determine the implementation of the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program in the middle school setting. // Findings: The program evaluation determined that the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program was not fully implemented for all students in this middle school, however, most of the program components were implemented among the selected students. The FNP implemented the program with all selected students during BMI follow up visits. The dietician met and implemented the program with 75% of the selected students. The PE teacher was primarily responsible for physical activity 2/3 of the school year. There were 24 HR students. Of these students, all had a BMI greater than or equal to the 96th percentile and 6 students (25%) had a BMI in the 100th percentile. Health disparities were observed and the highest risk cohort was 6th grade African American males. // Recommendations: Social marketing in addition to health teaching will increase the effectiveness of the 5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! program in the school. This may include placing 5-2-1-0 posters in the school, collaborating with teachers and parents, and providing hands-on opportunities in the form of cooking classes and health fairs. A written report will be provided to school administration and the school-based health center advisory board at the end of the project.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Smith, Christina. (2015). Evaluating an Evidence-Based Program that Addresses Childhood Obesity in a Middle School. Unpublished manuscript, Honors College, East Carolina University, Greenville, N.C. ?

Language: English

Date: 2015

Keywords

5-2-1-0 Let's Go!, Evidence-based, Childhood obesity

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