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Luo Y, Maafs‐Rodríguez AG, Hatfield DP. The individual-level effects of social media campaigns related to healthy eating, physical activity, and healthy weight: A narrative review. Obes Sci Pract 2024; 10:e731. [PMID: 38187123 PMCID: PMC10767147 DOI: 10.1002/osp4.731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Social media are promising channels for health communication promoting positive weight-related behaviors, but no prior studies have synthesized evidence on the independent effects of social media campaigns focused on promoting healthy eating, physical activity (PA), and healthy weight. This study aimed to fill that gap and inform future social media-based obesity-prevention research and practice by reviewing findings from studies testing the effects of such campaigns on individual-level cognitive, behavioral, and anthropometric outcomes. Method The Web of Science and PubMed databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between 2012 and 2023 that explored the independent effects of social media campaigns related to healthy eating, PA, or weight management. Study characteristics and outcomes were extracted and summarized. Results Eleven studies were included in this review describing campaigns targeting healthy eating-related outcomes (e.g., fruit and vegetable consumption, meal preparation, nutrition label reading), PA, or weight management. Most campaigns (n = 7) were developed by universities or research centers. Priority audiences included parents, adult females, adolescents, college students, and adult government employees. The majority (n = 8) of the campaigns used single platforms, with the most common being Facebook, Instagram, blogs, and YouTube. Campaigns had mixed effects on cognitive outcomes (e.g., intention, attitude, knowledge), behavioral outcomes (e.g., food choices, PA), and anthropometric outcomes (e.g., weight, waist circumference). Conclusion Social media campaigns focused on promoting healthy eating, PA, and healthy weight had mixed effects on individual-level cognitive, behavioral, and anthropometric outcomes. Various limitations of the included studies make it difficult to ascertain which factors influence campaign effectiveness. Advancing knowledge in this area is important, particularly given social media's widespread use and potential for broad reach. New research with features such as rigorous study designs, larger and more diverse samples, and strong theoretical foundations may provide important insights into what types of interventions are effective or not and under what conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Luo
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Ana G. Maafs‐Rodríguez
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
- ChildObesity180Tufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Daniel P. Hatfield
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
- ChildObesity180Tufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
- FHI 360DurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
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Hatfield DP, Must A, Kennedy W, Staiano AE, Slavet J, Sabelli RA, Curtin C, Bandini LG, Nauta P, Stuetzle C, Bowling AB. GamerFit-ASD beta test: adapting an evidence-based exergaming and telehealth coaching intervention for autistic youth. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1198000. [PMID: 37732006 PMCID: PMC10507699 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1198000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Health disparities faced by autistic youth are exacerbated by inadequate physical activity (PA) and sleep, whereas healthy PA and sleep may improve mood and function. Adaptive Game Squad (AGS) is an evidence-based telehealth coaching and exergaming intervention to improve PA and sleep for adolescents with diverse neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions. This study aimed to adapt AGS for autistic youth ages 10-15 years; beta-test the modified intervention for feasibility, accessibility, and engagement; and further refine the intervention for a larger planned demonstration pilot. Methods Interdisciplinary experts adapted AGS to create GamerFit-ASD, a 12-week intervention that included a progressive exergame schedule, Fitbit step-tracking, weekly health coaching, and health tip/exercise videos. For beta testing, the intervention was shortened to a 4-week trial with 5 parent/child dyads. Children completed exit surveys and parents and children were interviewed about intervention feasibility, accessibility, and engagement. Exit survey data were summarized with descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using a modified grounded-theory approach. Results All participants (n = 5; ages 10-14 years) attended all 4 planned coaching sessions and completed an average of 9 of 12 planned exergame challenges for a weekly average of 50 min. All participants reported enjoying coaching sessions, 4 of 5 reported enjoying exergames, and 3 of 5 reported enjoying on-demand exercise videos. In interviews, children generally reported finding participation feasible, exergaming challenges active and fun, and coaches friendly and helpful. Parents reported high feasibility of supporting their children's involvement and valued child goal-setting and intervention flexibility; however, some found telehealth sessions overly scripted. Several adaptations to coaching scripts, coach training, and parent materials were made for the larger demonstration pilot, including changes to reduce scriptedness of coaching sessions, to provide parents with more information specific to autism, and to make video content more appropriate to children's needs/preferences. Discussion A telehealth coaching and exergaming intervention appears feasible, accessible, and engaging for autistic youth aged 10-15. Future studies with larger, more diverse samples, longer study durations and/or follow-up periods, and more rigorous study designs are needed to advance understanding of the appropriateness and effectiveness of this type of intervention for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P. Hatfield
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Aviva Must
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Winston Kennedy
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA, United States
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Amanda E. Staiano
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - James Slavet
- Marblehead Family Therapy and Wellness, Marblehead, MA, United States
| | - Rachael A. Sabelli
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Carol Curtin
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Linda G. Bandini
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Phillip Nauta
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Christopher Stuetzle
- Department of Computer and Data Sciences, School of Science and Engineering, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA, United States
| | - April B. Bowling
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
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Hatfield DP, Sharma S, Bailey CP, Bakun P, Hennessy E, Simon C, Economos CD. Implementation of nutrition and physical activity-related policies and practices on college campuses participating in the Healthier Campus initiative. J Am Coll Health 2022:1-8. [PMID: 35549645 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2071617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate implementation of nutrition/physical activity-related policies/practices at colleges participating in a healthy campus initiative and campus health leaders' perceptions of policies/practices' support for student health and ease of/barriers to implementation. Participants: Health leaders at colleges participating in the Healthier Campus Initiative (HCI), with completed or ongoing three-year HCI commitments. Methods: Surveys asked which of 41 guidelines were implemented and perceptions around support for student health and ease of/barriers to implementation. Qualitative interviews explored similar domains. Results: Campuses with completed HCI commitments (n = 17) averaged 27.6 guidelines implemented, versus 21.1 on campuses with commitments ongoing (n = 13; p = 0.003). Perceived support for student health and implementation ease varied by guideline. Common implementation barriers included financial costs and time. Interviews largely reinforced these findings. Conclusions: Completion of a campus environmental change initiative may be associated with more health-supporting practices. Campuses may benefit from implementing coordinated policy/practice changes supporting healthy eating and physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Hatfield
- ChildObesity180 and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shanti Sharma
- ChildObesity180 and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caitlin P Bailey
- ChildObesity180 and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter Bakun
- ChildObesity180 and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Erin Hennessy
- ChildObesity180 and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caitlin Simon
- The Partnership for a Healthier America, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Christina D Economos
- ChildObesity180 and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Conrad Z, Hatfield DP, Hennessy E, Maneval E, Ty E, Pankey CL. Evaluating Moderation of Parent-Teen Overweight/Obesity Relation by Household Socioeconomic Status. Curr Dev Nutr 2021; 5:nzab030. [PMID: 33959690 PMCID: PMC8085476 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence links parent-offspring weight status, but few studies have evaluated whether markers of socioeconomic status moderate this relation. The 2014 Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating study was used to assess intergenerational weight status in a national sample of parent-teen dyads. Multivariable logistic regression models assessed the relation between parent-teen weight status, controlling for teen and parent dietary factors, physical activity, demographic factors, and socioeconomic factors. Models with interaction assessed moderation by household food security status and participation in federal assistance programs. In fully adjusted models, sons were 2.66 (95% CI: 1.56, 4.55) times more likely to have overweight/obesity if their mother had overweight/obesity, and daughters were 3.35 (95% CI: 1.91, 5.86) times more likely. This relation was stronger in mother-son pairs in households with lower food security. These findings provide important new information that can be used to inform nutritional counseling efforts and educational programs that support families with socioeconomic disadvantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach Conrad
- Department of Health Sciences, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
| | - Daniel P Hatfield
- Division of Nutrition Interventions, Communication and Behavior Change, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
- ChildObesity180, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erin Hennessy
- Division of Nutrition Interventions, Communication and Behavior Change, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
- ChildObesity180, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Esther Ty
- College of Arts & Sciences, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
| | - Christopher L Pankey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lewisburg, WV, USA
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Pufall Jones E, Hatfield DP, Connolly N. Every School Healthy: Creating Local Impact Through National Efforts. J Sch Health 2020; 90:995-1003. [PMID: 33184888 PMCID: PMC7702037 DOI: 10.1111/josh.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whole school, whole community, whole child (WSCC) approaches to education address contexts beyond school that influence young people's academic and life outcomes. These recommended approaches demand mobilization of an array of actors, but such mobilization is challenging. Little research has explored strategies for convening national experts to support local communities. METHODS This paper presents a case narrative of Every School Healthy (ESH), a grant-funded effort to support organizations/school districts in 6 communities building WSCC initiatives by engaging national youth development organizations as expert advisors to ESH and communities. A thematic analysis of the narrative yielded 3 key learnings. RESULTS Three themes emerged as key learnings regarding implementation of national-local initiatives: (1) baseline assessment of local communities should be conducted to identify opportunities for maximizing strengths; (2) national organizations must be flexible with the expertise they bring to the initiative; (3) national organizations should prioritize community-cultivated solutions and meet communities where they are. CONCLUSIONS The 3 themes presented in this case narrative offer insights for effectively mobilizing national organizations to support healthy, equitable school environments at the local level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel P. Hatfield
- Childhood Obesity 180, Tufts University, 75 Kneeland StreetBostonMA02111
| | - Nico Connolly
- America's Promise Alliance, 1110 Vermont Avenue, N.W, Suite 900WashingtonDC20005
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Bailey CP, Sharma S, Economos CD, Hennessy E, Simon C, Hatfield DP. College campuses' influence on student weight and related behaviours: A review of observational and intervention research. Obes Sci Pract 2020; 6:694-707. [PMID: 33354347 PMCID: PMC7746970 DOI: 10.1002/osp4.445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Research indicates that most college students are not meeting dietary and physical activity guidelines, and the average student gains an estimated 1.6-3.0 kg during 4 years of study. College administrations are well-positioned to influence student weight-related health behaviours by ensuring that campus environments/policies promote health. However, to date, campus health interventions have largely addressed individual and interpersonal factors rather than environmental/policy-level changes. Using an ecological perspective, this narrative review synthesizes the literature on campus environmental/policy-level factors (e.g., food availability, physical activity requirements) associated with student diet, physical activity and weight, as well as campus interventions to address these factors. Web of Science and PubMed databases were searched between December 2018 and November 2019. Results indicate that campus food environments may contribute to overconsumption and weight gain, and the number of campuses requiring students to participate in physical activity courses is in decline. Eight examples of environmental/policy-level campus interventions are presented: nutrition labels in dining halls, campus-wide healthy choice marketing campaigns, restricted payment methods for à la cart dining, trayless dining, health-themed residence halls, peer health education programmes, active classroom spaces and physical activity course requirements. Implications for research and health promotion programmes/policies in the field of college health are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin P. Bailey
- ChildObesity180, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Milken Institute School of Public HealthThe George Washington University950 New Hampshire Ave NW #2Washington, DC20052USA
| | - Shanti Sharma
- ChildObesity180, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Christina D. Economos
- ChildObesity180, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Erin Hennessy
- ChildObesity180, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Caitlin Simon
- Partnership for a Healthier AmericaWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Daniel P. Hatfield
- ChildObesity180, The Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Hennessy E, Hatfield DP, Chui K, Herrick S, Odalen C, West T, Pratt R, Wright C, Sacheck J. Changes In Ability, Confidence, And Motivation Among Children In A Novel School-based Physical Literacy Intervention. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2018. [DOI: 10.1249/01.mss.0000538514.53208.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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8
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Miller GF, Sliwa S, Michael S, Lee S, Burgeson C, Krautheim AM, Hatfield DP, Sharma S, Economos CD. Evaluation of Let's Move! active schools activation grants. Prev Med 2018; 108:36-40. [PMID: 29288779 PMCID: PMC5828981 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2017.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Let's Move! Active Schools (LMAS), now Active Schools, is a national initiative in the United States (US) that aims to engage schools to increase students' opportunities to be physically active. This evaluation describes changes in school-level practices related to physical education (PE) and physical activity (PA) among schools that received an LMAS-partner grant from ChildObesity180 or Fuel Up to Play 60 (FUTP60). ChildObesity180 and FUTP60 asked grantee schools to complete nine common questions, between October 2013 and August 2014, before and after receiving the grants to assess progress in implementing practices for PE and PA. "Yes" responses indicated presence of PE/PA-supportive practices. For schools with complete pre and post data (n=972), frequencies of "yes" responses were calculated for each practice at pre/post. Schools receiving a FUTP60 partner grant reported statistically significant improvements from pre to post across five practices for PE and PA, and ChildObesity180 grantees reported significant increases on all practices except daily recess, which was already in place at 95% of schools at pre-survey. Schools across both grant programs reported the largest increases for promoting PA via messaging, implementing classroom PA breaks, and providing PA before and after school. Schools in both programs reported smaller, but statistically significant, increases in requiring the recommended minutes of PE. This study illustrates the feasibility of offering small grants, at a national scale, for schools to make changes that support PA throughout the day. Results suggest that schools can shift PA policies and practices over the course of a school year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle F Miller
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, United States.
| | - Sarah Sliwa
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, United States
| | - Shannon Michael
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, United States
| | - Sarah Lee
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, United States
| | | | | | - Daniel P Hatfield
- ChildObesity180, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shanti Sharma
- ChildObesity180, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Christina D Economos
- ChildObesity180, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
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Hatfield DP, Chomitz VR, Chui KKH, Sacheck JM, Brown AA, Economos CD. Impact of a Community-Based Physical Activity Program on Fitness and Adiposity Among Overweight and Obese Children. Health Promot Pract 2016; 18:75-83. [PMID: 27199149 DOI: 10.1177/1524839916642714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This study tested whether overweight/obese children's attendance in a community-based physical activity (PA) program was associated with changes in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and adiposity and whether in-program activity levels influenced those associations. Program sessions (offered twice/week, 2 hours/session, over 9 months) included structured exercise/sports. At baseline and follow-up, CRF was measured as Progressive Aerobic Cardiorespiratory Endurance Run (PACER) laps, height/weight were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Attendance was recorded as sessions attended. Children wore pedometers in 10 representative sessions; in-program activity was calculated as mean steps/minute across sessions. Linear mixed models tested associations between attendance and changes in PACER score and BMI and the influence of in-program activity on those associations. A total of 101 participants (56% male, 93% Hispanic) completed baseline and one or two follow-up fitness/adiposity measurements. Attendance was associated with PACER change (β = .093, p = .01) but not BMI change (β = .00026, p = .97). There were significant interactions between attendance and in-program activity: Attendance more favorably affected PACER (p < .0001) and BMI (p = .03) as in-program activity levels increased. Attending community-based PA programs may improve CRF among overweight/obese children, particularly when participants are highly active during program time. Community practitioners should not only enroll overweight/obese children in PA programs but also promote adequate attendance/in-program activity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Allison A Brown
- 1 Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.,2 East Boston Neighborhood Health Center, East Boston, MA, USA
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Hatfield DP, Lynskey VM, Economos CD, Nichols ER, Whitman NB, Nelson ME. Crowdsourcing Innovative Physical Activity Programs. Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine 2016. [DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Hatfield DP, Sliwa SA, Folta SC, Economos CD, Goldberg JP. The critical role of communications in a multilevel obesity-prevention intervention: Lessons learned for alcohol educators. Patient Educ Couns 2016; 100 Suppl 1:S3-S10. [PMID: 26830515 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2016.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Multilevel interventions to prevent underage drinking are more effective than individual-level strategies, and messaging campaigns are key to such approaches. Recognizing the benefits of translating best practices across public health domains, this paper details the communications campaign from Shape Up Somerville (SUS), an exemplar for multilevel community-based approaches to address pediatric obesity, highlighting lessons learned for alcohol educators. METHODS All elements of SUS, including the communications strategy, were developed collaboratively with local partners. Communication initiatives included community-engaged brand development to unify diverse intervention components; school-based communications to promote new opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity; and media partnerships to promote healthy behaviors community-wide. RESULTS The overall SUS intervention was effective in reducing prevalence of overweight/obesity among first- to third-graders in Somerville relative to control communities. Process evaluation showed that communications successfully reached diverse community segments and raised awareness of and receptivity to changes. CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Communications campaigns are essential components of multilevel interventions addressing public health challenges including obesity and underage drinking. Such communications should be developed collaboratively with the target audience and stakeholders, designed to engage community members at multiple levels through multiple channels within a systems framework, and sustained through local partnerships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Hatfield
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
| | - Sarah A Sliwa
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA; Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Sara C Folta
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Christina D Economos
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Jeanne P Goldberg
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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12
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Hatfield DP, Chomitz VR, Chui KKH, Sacheck JM, Economos CD. Demographic, Physiologic, and Psychosocial Correlates of Physical Activity in Structured Exercise and Sports Among Low-Income, Overweight Children. J Nutr Educ Behav 2015; 47:452-8.e1. [PMID: 26145759 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe correlates of physical activity (PA) in structured exercise and structured sports sessions among low-income, overweight children participating in a community-based PA program. METHODS A total of 93 children (55% male; 91% Hispanic) aged 8-14 years were included. Participants wore pedometers in a sample of 10 of 59 total sessions offered; mean steps per minute were calculated for structured exercise and sports sessions. Separate multivariable regression models tested associations between steps per minute in exercise and sports sessions and 5 potential correlates: baseline body mass index z-score, aerobic fitness (Progressive Aerobic Cardiorespiratory Endurance Run laps), perceived athletic competence (Harter self-perception profile), sex, and age. RESULTS Only age (ß = -2.9; P = .02) significantly predicted steps per minute in exercise sessions. Age (ß = -4.3; P = .007), fitness (ß = 0.45; P = .03), and male sex (ß = 8.7; P = .02) significantly predicted steps per minute in sports. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS In structured exercise and sports, perceived competence may not influence overweight and obese children's PA. However, girls and older or less fit children may engage less actively, especially in sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Hatfield
- Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA; ChildObesity180, Tufts University, Boston, MA.
| | - Virginia R Chomitz
- Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA; Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA
| | - Kenneth K H Chui
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA
| | - Jennifer M Sacheck
- Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA
| | - Christina D Economos
- Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA; ChildObesity180, Tufts University, Boston, MA
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13
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Economos CD, Hatfield DP, King AC, Ayala GX, Pentz MA. Food and physical activity environments: an energy balance approach for research and practice. Am J Prev Med 2015; 48:620-9. [PMID: 25891062 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Increases in the prevalence of overweight and obesity are a function of chronic, population-level energy imbalance, whereby energy intakes exceed energy expenditures. Although sometimes viewed in isolation, energy intakes and expenditures in fact exist in a dynamic interplay: energy intakes may influence energy expenditures and vice versa. Obesogenic environments that promote positive energy balance play a central role in the obesity epidemic, and reducing obesity prevalence will require re-engineering environments to promote both healthy eating and physical activity. There may be untapped synergies in addressing both sides of the energy balance equation in environmentally focused obesity interventions, yet food/beverage and physical activity environments are often addressed separately. The field needs design, evaluation, and analytic methods that support this approach. This paper provides a rationale for an energy balance approach and reviews and describes research and practitioner work that has taken this approach to obesity prevention at the environmental and policy levels. Future directions in research, practice, and policy include moving obesity prevention toward a systems approach that brings both nutrition and physical activity into interdisciplinary training, funding mechanisms, and clinical and policy recommendations/guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina D Economos
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Daniel P Hatfield
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Abby C King
- Health Research and Policy Department and the Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford
| | - Guadalupe X Ayala
- San Diego State University and the Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, San Diego
| | - Mary Ann Pentz
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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Hatfield DP, Sweeney KP, Lau J, Lichtenstein AH. Critical assessment of high-circulation print newspaper coverage of the Institute of Medicine report Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Public Health Nutr 2014; 17:1868-76. [PMID: 23902633 PMCID: PMC10282350 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980013002073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Revised: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate high-circulation US and Canadian newspaper coverage of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D and assess pre-report and post-report reporter-specific vitamin D-related coverage. DESIGN Two independent reviewers analysed the newspaper articles. The key report findings cited, proportion of sentences describing the IOM report and proportion of sentences describing critical viewpoints on the report were calculated. The content of articles written by reporters with a history of pre-report vitamin D-related articles was compared with that of articles written by reporters without such a history. SETTING Factiva and LexisNexis searches of the top thirty US and three English-language Canadian print newspapers, by circulation. SUBJECTS Articles on the IOM report published from 30 November to 21 December 2010 and previous vitamin D-related articles written by the same reporters. RESULTS Only ten articles met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Articles inconsistently cited the key findings in the IOM report. Reporters with a history of pre-report articles highlighting the benefits of vitamin D dedicated a greater proportion of sentences to viewpoints critical of the IOM report (P < 0·01). There was no significant difference between pre-report publication history and proportion of sentences focused on the IOM report. A borderline-significant difference (P = 0·058) was observed between pre-report articles highlighting the benefits of vitamin D and the absence of reference to potential risks of vitamin D overconsumption. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that newspaper articles did not consistently or comprehensively report the IOM recommendations and that pre-report publication history of reporters was related to post-report article content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Hatfield
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kathryn P Sweeney
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Joseph Lau
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alice H Lichtenstein
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory, Jean Mayer–US Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
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