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McCartney K, Wood G, Gabbert K, Warner M, Tompkins NO. Home Gardening Resurgence During COVID: Motivations and Perceived Benefits of Participating in Grow This! Health Promot Pract 2023; 24:1230-1236. [PMID: 35778887 DOI: 10.1177/15248399221102919] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Gardening is associated with a wide array of health benefits. We describe the dissemination of a low-cost social media-based campaign (Grow This!), an intervention intended to reach novice gardeners and which combined elements of old (seeds) and new (Facebook) technology. Grow This! was implemented before (2018, 2019) and during (2020) the COVID pandemic, providing an interesting framework for understanding participants' motivations for gardening. Pre- and post-surveys assessed a variety of topics, including participants' motivations for participating in Grow This!, how they planned to participate, previous gardening experience, the main benefits attributed to participation, and intentions to garden in the future. Descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis were used to analyze the survey data. More than 25,000 people participated in Grow This! over the 3 years, with the majority (77%) participating as a family. Participation in the project spiked during COVID. Primary motivations for participating in Grow This! pre-COVID were education, enjoyment, family engagement, and self-sufficiency; during COVID, motivations remained the same, but shifted in rank. Just over a third of participants were novice gardeners. Participants attributed numerous benefits to their participation, including stress reduction/relaxation, more outdoor time, reduced grocery bills, and eating more fruits and vegetables than normal. A total of 83% of respondents reported being highly likely to have a garden in the future. Home gardening as an intervention is ripe for dissemination, particularly in the aftermath of COVID. Public health professionals can benefit from this understanding of people's motivations to garden and the perceived benefits associated with gardening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gina Wood
- West Virginia University, Charleston, WV, USA
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Gabbert KD, Tompkins NO, Murphy E. Addressing the Gap Between Academic Research and Grassroots Public Health Practice: Supporting Policy, Systems, and Environmental Changes in Rural Communities. Health Promot Pract 2023; 24:161S-169S. [PMID: 36999499 DOI: 10.1177/15248399221115452] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Public health practice continues to expand beyond traditional partners to increase reach and impact in communities. This is particularly important in rural communities, who face inequities in the social determinants of health and increased chronic disease burden. However, the capacity for non-traditional community organizations to understand and implement public health work varies widely. Promoting policy, systems, and environmental change strategies (PSE's) is a promising method to support public health in rural communities, due to their variety, flexibility, and potential impact.Using a mixed methods approach to data analysis, we explore the barriers, challenges, and lessons learned from efforts in two rural Appalachian counties to stimulate use of PSE strategies through micro-funding. Several significant barriers were identified: challenges with evaluation and reporting, and lack of understanding and limited utilization of PSE strategies. Successful approaches to overcome these barriers included (1) changing reporting processes to reduce reliance on technology and shift reporting burden from community partners to researchers, (2) adapting data collection to capitalize on strengths of project partners, and (3) abandoning scientific language to embrace more common terminology used in communities. Policy changes were the least utilized strategy. This strategy may be less relevant in rural grassroots organizations with a small staff. Additional research into barriers to policy change is recommended. Enhanced training and support for grassroots, local-level PSE interventions could expand public health promotion in rural areas, reducing rural health disparities.
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Seiler M, Crosier V, Vance J, O'Hara Tompkins N. Activating Worksites to Implement Policy, Systems, and Environmental Changes: Outcomes and Overcoming Challenges. Am J Health Promot 2022; 37:520-523. [PMID: 36271657 DOI: 10.1177/08901171221135593] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although workplaces are prime settings for health promotion, little is known about the implementation of policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes focused on chronic disease. PSEs have broader reach and are more sustainable than individual level strategies. DESIGN non-experimental, one group design with no control.Setting: West Virginia, a state with significant chronic disease-related health disparities. SUBJECTS Convenience sample of 27 workplaces, representing 6 industry types. INTERVENTION $1000 in micro funding awarded to workplaces to participate in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Work@Health®/ScoreCard, and implement PSEs. MEASURES ScoreCard baseline results; post project survey results. ANALYSIS Descriptive analysis of ScoreCard; survey responses coded into PSE and I (individual level strategies) categories; frequencies were calculated. RESULTS 63% of the workplaces were very small (1-100 employees). Chronic disease-related organizational practices (ScoreCard) were minimal: nutrition (5/24), physical activity (7/22), diabetes (5/15), cholesterol (4/13), and high blood pressure (6/16). Workplaces reported a total of 95 PSEs: P-8, S-55, and E-32. CONCLUSION Policy change was the least frequently attempted and reported PSE strategy. More research with a stronger study design is needed to determine if (1) baseline organizational practices (Scorecard scores) improve, (2) PSEs (especially P) can be implemented without micro funding/TA, (3) workplace-type is related to use of the funds/TA, and (4) enacting PSE changes leads to healthier employees.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James Vance
- Division of Health Promotion and Chronic Disease, 161119West Virginia Bureau for Public Health, Charleston, WV, USA
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Tompkins NO, Wright J, Giacobbi P, Alelaiwat B, Vance J, Gregory M, Bromley C, Ross M. Maximizing the Potential of Mini-Grants to Promote Policy, Systems, and Environmental Changes: Outcomes and Challenges. Health Promot Pract 2021; 23:445-452. [PMID: 34551602 DOI: 10.1177/15248399211039788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES This article describes the implementation and evaluation of a chronic disease mini-grant initiative, coordinated by a state health department in collaboration with multiple stakeholders. Braided funding from federal and state sources was used to build and implement the initiative. INTERVENTION APPROACH Mini-grants, facilitated by five different facilitating organizations, were funded to promote implementation of policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes at the local level. Grant recipients represented a variety of sectors, including education, government, and nonprofit organizations. EVALUATION METHODS Primary (surveys) and secondary (final reports) data documented achievement of PSE changes. RESULTS A total of $196,369 was dispersed to 65 organizations; 126 PSE changes in the areas of physical activity, nutrition, and tobacco were reported. Challenges in implementing and evaluating mini-grants were identified, including the heterogeneity of the sectors/settings involved and associated variability of proposed activities, time lines, measurement, and evaluation activities. COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) also disrupted the plans for many projects. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH The success of this initiative can be attributed to four main elements: (1) the use of intermediary organizations to facilitate the mini-grants; (2) a participatory evaluation process, combined with early and ongoing communication among all stakeholders; (3) a braided funding strategy; and (4) a multisector approach that engaged both traditional and nontraditional public health organizations. The processes and outcomes, including challenges, can inform other state health departments' efforts in braiding funding and engaging intermediary organizations to expand the reach of PSE changes at the local level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica Wright
- West Virginia Bureau for Public Health, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Charleston, WV, USA
| | | | | | - James Vance
- West Virginia Bureau for Public Health, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Charleston, WV, USA
| | | | - Craig Bromley
- West Virginia Bureau for Public Health, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Charleston, WV, USA
| | - Megan Ross
- West Virginia Bureau for Public Health, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Charleston, WV, USA
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Casanave K, Gabbert K, Tompkins NO, Murphy E, Elliott E, Zizzi S. Environmental Factors Affecting Rural Physical Activity Behaviors: Learning from Community Partners. Prog Community Health Partnersh 2021; 15:349-359. [PMID: 37934422 DOI: 10.1353/cpr.2021.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rural environments present many barriers to regular physical activity (PA), and residents who live in these communities are at higher risk for a variety of health issues. OBJECTIVES We used community-based participatory research (CBPR) to guide the development of project interventions and enhance partnerships within the communities. METHODS University-community partnerships, including Extension professionals, were used to gather data from twenty key informants in two West Virginia counties. RESULTS Respondents identified "places" as both barriers (lack of access or quality) and assets in their communities. "Community culture" was identified as a significant barrier. Solutions that emerged from the data include "new/enhanced places" or "events/programs". CONCLUSIONS These data supported the notion that there are unique social, cultural, and environmental factors affecting rural PA behavior. These interviews also contributed to increased capacity for local engagement and reinforced the need for community member leadership in the larger project.
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O'Hara Tompkins N, Northrup K, Grant J, Weikle MF, Long D, Bassler J, Workman C, Ramsey Z, Jarrett T, Sirk H, Cottrell L. Translating School Physical Education and Activity Policies into Practice: A Case Study. Transl J Am Coll Sports Med 2020; 5. [PMID: 34549089 DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000132] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Public health experts recommend school-based policies as a population based approach to increase youth physical activity. The purpose of this case study is to describe one, largely rural, state's efforts to translate this recommendation into practice. Details about the genesis, implementation and evolution of two state level policies (physical education and physical activity), as well as in-house efforts of a State Department of Education to monitor policy compliance and challenges encountered are described. Two specific years are highlighted, due to policy and monitoring enhancements made during those particular time periods. Methods Data for this paper come from the West Virginia Department of Education for two time periods: 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 (n=369 elementary schools). Descriptive statistics for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data were used to document school level compliance and provide context for implementation challenges. Results Greater than 70% of school principals reported achievement of physical education and physical activity policy expectations for each year. Limited staff was the predominant explanation for nonfulfillment of physical education expectations, followed by lack of time and facilities. Recess and classroom-based physical activity were the primary strategies used to comply with the physical activity expectations. PE and PA policy compliance varied significantly by certain school characteristics in each school year studied. Conclusions Further investigation is warranted on how states translate public health policy recommendations into practice, including how physical education and physical activity policies are developed and monitored at the state level and how to support states and schools with monitoring and implementation challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Josh Grant
- West Virginia Department of Education Office of Middle/Secondary Learning
| | - Mary Folz Weikle
- West Virginia University, School of Public Health, Prevention Research Center
| | - Dustin Long
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Biostatistics
| | - John Bassler
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Biostatistics
| | - Charlotte Workman
- West Virginia University, School of Public Health, Prevention Research Center
| | - Zachary Ramsey
- West Virginia University, School of Public Health, Prevention Research Center
| | - Traci Jarrett
- West Virginia University, School of Public Health, Prevention Research Center
| | - Hannah Sirk
- West Virginia University, School of Public Health, Prevention Research Center
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Umstattd Meyer MR, Perry CK, Sumrall JC, Patterson MS, Walsh SM, Clendennen SC, Hooker SP, Evenson KR, Goins KV, Heinrich KM, O'Hara Tompkins N, Eyler AA, Jones S, Tabak R, Valko C. Physical Activity-Related Policy and Environmental Strategies to Prevent Obesity in Rural Communities: A Systematic Review of the Literature, 2002-2013. Prev Chronic Dis 2016; 13:E03. [PMID: 26741997 PMCID: PMC4707945 DOI: 10.5888/pcd13.150406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health disparities exist between rural and urban residents; in particular, rural residents have higher rates of chronic diseases and obesity. Evidence supports the effectiveness of policy and environmental strategies to prevent obesity and promote health equity. In 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended 24 policy and environmental strategies for use by local communities: the Common Community Measures for Obesity Prevention (COCOMO); 12 strategies focus on physical activity. This review was conducted to synthesize evidence on the implementation, relevance, and effectiveness of physical activity-related policy and environmental strategies for obesity prevention in rural communities. METHODS A literature search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINHAL, and PAIS databases for articles published from 2002 through May 2013 that reported findings from physical activity-related policy or environmental interventions conducted in the United States or Canada. Each article was extracted independently by 2 researchers. RESULTS Of 2,002 articles, 30 articles representing 26 distinct studies met inclusion criteria. Schools were the most common setting (n = 18 studies). COCOMO strategies were applied in rural communities in 22 studies; the 2 most common COCOMO strategies were "enhance infrastructure supporting walking" (n = 11) and "increase opportunities for extracurricular physical activity" (n = 9). Most studies (n = 21) applied at least one of 8 non-COCOMO strategies; the most common was increasing physical activity opportunities at school outside of physical education (n = 8). Only 14 studies measured or reported physical activity outcomes (10 studies solely used self-report); 10 reported positive changes. CONCLUSION Seven of the 12 COCOMO physical activity-related strategies were successfully implemented in 2 or more studies, suggesting that these 7 strategies are relevant in rural communities and the other 5 might be less applicable in rural communities. Further research using robust study designs and measurement is needed to better ascertain implementation success and effectiveness of COCOMO and non-COCOMO strategies in rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Renée Umstattd Meyer
- Baylor University, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, One Bear Place No. 97313, Waco, TX 76798.
| | - Cynthia K Perry
- School of Nursing Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Jasmin C Sumrall
- Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, Texas
| | | | - Shana M Walsh
- Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, Texas
| | | | | | - Kelly R Evenson
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Karin V Goins
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | | | - Nancy O'Hara Tompkins
- West Virginia Prevention Research Center, West Virginia University, Charleston, West Virginia
| | - Amy A Eyler
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sydney Jones
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Rachel Tabak
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Cheryl Valko
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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Litt J, Varda D, Reed H, Retrum J, Tabak R, Gustat J, O'Hara Tompkins N. How to Identify Success Among Networks That Promote Active Living. Am J Public Health 2015; 105:2298-305. [PMID: 26378863 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2015.302828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated organization- and network-level factors that influence organizations' perceived success. This is important for managing interorganizational networks, which can mobilize communities to address complex health issues such as physical activity, and for achieving change. METHODS In 2011, we used structured interview and network survey data from 22 states in the United States to estimate multilevel random-intercept models to understand organization- and network-level factors that explain perceived network success. RESULTS A total of 53 of 59 "whole networks" met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis (89.8%). Coordinators identified 559 organizations, with 3 to 12 organizations from each network taking the online survey (response rate = 69.7%; range = 33%-100%). Occupying a leadership position (P < .01), the amount of time with the network (P < .05), and support from community leaders (P < .05) emerged as correlates of perceived success. CONCLUSIONS Organizations' perceptions of success can influence decisions about continuing involvement and investment in networks designed to promote environment and policy change for active living. Understanding these factors can help leaders manage complex networks that involve diverse memberships, varied interests, and competing community-level priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Litt
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Danielle Varda
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Hannah Reed
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Jessica Retrum
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Rachel Tabak
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Jeanette Gustat
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Nancy O'Hara Tompkins
- Jill Litt and Hannah Reed are with Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora. Danielle Varda and Jessica Retrum are with University of Colorado, School of Public Affairs, Denver. Rachel Tabak is with Prevention Research Center, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO. Jeanette Gustat is with Department of Epidemiology, Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. Nancy O'Hara Tompkins is with West Virginia Prevention Research Center, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown
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Lemon SC, Goins KV, Schneider KL, Brownson RC, Valko CA, Evenson KR, Eyler AA, Heinrich KM, Litt J, Lyn R, Reed HL, Tompkins NO, Maddock J. Municipal Officials' Participation in Built Environment Policy Development in the United States. Am J Health Promot 2014; 30:42-9. [PMID: 25372234 DOI: 10.4278/ajhp.131021-quan-536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined municipal officials' participation in built environment policy initiatives focused on land use design, transportation, and parks and recreation. DESIGN Web-based cross-sectional survey. SETTING Eighty-three municipalities with 50,000 or more residents in eight states. SUBJECTS Four hundred fifty-three elected and appointed municipal officials. MEASURES Outcomes included self-reported participation in land use design, transportation, and parks and recreation policy to increase physical activity. Independent variables included respondent position; perceptions of importance, barriers, and beliefs regarding physical activity and community design and layout; and physical activity partnership participation. ANALYSIS Multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS Compared to other positions, public health officials had lower participation in land use design (78.3% vs. 29.0%), transportation (78.1% vs. 42.1%), and parks and recreation (67.1% vs. 26.3%) policy. Perceived limited staff was negatively associated with participation in each policy initiative. Perceptions of the extent to which physical activity was considered in community design and physical activity partnership participation were positively associated with participation in each. Perceived lack of collaboration was associated with less land use design and transportation policy participation, and awareness that community design affects physical activity was associated with more participation. Perceived lack of political will was associated with less parks and recreation policy participation. CONCLUSION Public health officials are underrepresented in built environment policy initiatives. Improving collaborations may improve municipal officials' policy participation.
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Litt JS, Reed HL, Tabak RG, Zieff SG, Eyler AA, Lyn R, Goins KV, Gustat J, Tompkins NO. Active living collaboratives in the United States: understanding characteristics, activities, and achievement of environmental and policy change. Prev Chronic Dis 2013; 10:E19. [PMID: 23391295 PMCID: PMC3567925 DOI: 10.5888/pcd10.120162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Changing the built environment to promote active lifestyles requires collaboration among diverse sectors. Multisectoral collaborative groups in the United States promote active lifestyles through environmental and policy changes. The objective of this study was to examine the characteristics of these collaborative groups and the extent to which they have achieved change. Methods We identified, recruited, and interviewed the coordinators of active living collaborative groups in the United States. We used descriptive statistics to characterize groups by composition, stakeholder engagement, and the extent of environmental and policy change in 8 strategic areas. Results Fifty-nine groups from 22 states participated in the study. Most groups had a diverse set of partners and used a range of activities to advance their agendas. Most groups achieved some form of environmental or policy change. On average, groups reported working on 5 strategy areas; parks and recreation (86%) and Safe Routes to School (85%) were named most frequently. More than half of groups reported their environmental initiatives as either in progress or completed. Groups reported the most success in changing policy for public plazas, street improvements, streetscaping, and parks, open space, and recreation. Complete Streets policy and zoning ordinances were the most frequently cited policy types. Engaging in media activities and the policy-making process in addition to engaging stakeholders appear to influence success in achieving change. Conclusion Although many groups successfully worked on parks and recreation improvements, opportunities remain in other areas, including transit and infill and redevelopment. Additional time and resources may be critical to realizing these types of changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill S Litt
- Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Eyler AA, Brownson RC, Aytur SA, Cradock AL, Doescher M, Evenson KR, Kerr J, Maddock J, Pluto DL, Steinman L, Tompkins NO, Troped P, Schmid TL. Examination of trends and evidence-based elements in state physical education legislation: a content analysis. J Sch Health 2010; 80:326-332. [PMID: 20591097 DOI: 10.1111/j.1746-1561.2010.00509.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop a comprehensive inventory of state physical education (PE) legislation, examine trends in bill introduction, and compare bill factors. METHODS State PE legislation from January 2001 to July 2007 was identified using a legislative database. Analysis included components of evidence-based school PE from the Community Guide and other authoritative sources: minutes in PE, PE activity, teacher certification, and an environmental element, including facilities and equipment. Researchers abstracted information from each bill and a composite list was developed. RESULTS In total, 781 bills were analyzed with 162 enacted. Of the 272 bills that contained at least 1 evidence-based element, 43 were enacted. Only 4 bills included all 4 evidence-based elements. Of these 4, 1 was enacted. Funding was mentioned in 175 of the bills introduced (37 enacted) and an evaluation component was present in 172 of the bills (49 enacted). CONCLUSIONS Based on this analysis, we showed that PE is frequently introduced, yet the proportion of bills with evidence-based elements is low. Future research is needed to provide the types of evidence required for development of quality PE legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy A Eyler
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Rye JA, O'Hara Tompkins N, Eck R, Neal WA. Promoting youth physical activity and healthy weight through schools. W V Med J 2008; 104:12-15. [PMID: 18491793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of overweight in youth has increased three- to four-fold in the United States since the 1960s. The school environment can play prominently in the mitigation of this epidemic by increasing physical activity opportunities/ levels, decreasing the availability of food/ beverage with added sugar, and enhancing students' scientific understandings about energy balance. The potential to increase energy expenditure goes beyond the school day to include safe routes for walking and biking to school (active transport) as well as the availability of school facilities as a community resource for physical activity outside of school hours. However, school consolidation and siting decisions have profound effects on active transport as well as the school as a community resource. Teachers and adolescents should not be overlooked as important partners in conceiving and carrying out programming that seeks to increase physical activity levels in youth and the broader community. As leaders and health care providers in their communities, physicians are postured to be effective advocates of, and to leverage in their own practice, school-based policies and practices towards promoting healthy weight in youth.
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O'Hara Tompkins N, Rye JA, Zizzi S, Vitullo E. Engaging rural youth in physical activity promotion research in an after-school setting. Prev Chronic Dis 2005; 2 Spec no:A15. [PMID: 16263048 PMCID: PMC1459460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND West Virginia, the second most rural state in the nation, has a higher than average prevalence of chronic diseases, especially those related to physical inactivity and obesity. Innovative educational approaches are needed to increase physical activity among adults and youth in rural areas and reduce rural health disparities. This paper describes West Virginia's Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA) Education and Outreach on Healthy Weight and Physical Activity. The project involved teachers and underserved high school students in social science research aimed at increasing physical activity among student and community participants. CONTEXT The HSTA is an ongoing initiative of university-school-community partnerships in West Virginia that offers academic enrichment to high-school students in after-school clubs. For this project, six HSTA clubs were awarded grants to conduct research on physical activity promotion during the 2003-2004 school year. The project was funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. METHODS Focus groups, workshops, and targeted technical assistance were used to assist teachers and students with developing, implementing, and evaluating their research projects. Each club completed one project, and students reported on their research at the annual HSTA symposium held in the spring. Teachers documented their experience with the projects in process journals before and during implementation. CONSEQUENCES Data from the teachers' process journals revealed that they believed this research experience increased their students' interest in health and health science careers and increased their students' understanding of social science research methods. Challenges included lack of time after school to complete all activities, competing student activities, limited social science research experience of both teachers and students, and delays that resulted from a lengthy human subjects approval process. INTERPRETATION The entire process was too ambitious to be achieved in one school year. Recommendations for future implementation include offering training modules on social science research methods for both teachers and students. These modules could be offered as a graduate course for teachers and as an in-school elective within the curriculum or as a summer institute for students. This preparatory training might alleviate some of the time management issues experienced by all the projects and could result in more skilled teacher and student researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy O'Hara Tompkins
- Department of Community Medicine, West Virginia University, 4406 Staunton Ave, Charleston, WV 25304, USA.
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Abstract
Well-designed school health education should provide students with the knowledge and skills to prevent the health risk behaviors most responsible for the major causes of morbidity and mortality. This paper reports the methodology and findings of a West Virginia statewide health education assessment initiative and describes how the findings are used to design professional development training for school health educators. Selected response items from the State Collaborative on Assessment and Student Standards, Health Education Assessment Project were used to develop a 40-item assessment instrument for 6 health education content areas. In West Virginia, 51 counties and 242 schools were recruited (county response rate = 93%; school response rate = 53%); 17,549 students were tested in grades 6, 8, and high school health education classes. Mean total scores by grade were 30.61 (grade 6), 26.55 (grade 8), and 26.53 (high school), indicating a slight decline in scores as grade level increased. Females in each grade level scored higher on total Health Education Assessment Project (HEAP) scores and subtest scores than males. The results suggest notable differences across grade levels. High school students failed to meet the standard on any health education content areas, indicating the need for enhanced knowledge and skill development. During professional development training, HEAP scores were examined in the context of results from the West Virginia Youth Risk Behavior Survey to underscore the importance of providing quality skills-based health education in West Virginia schools.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Schools have the unique potential to provide numerous opportunities for promoting physical activity. This article describes findings from a statewide survey of opportunities for physical activity in West Virginia (WV) schools. The purpose was to provide baseline data for two of the WV Healthy People 2010 objectives related to schools and youth to identify priorities for action. METHOD Survey questions were adapted from the 2000 School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS), conducted by CDC. Random stratified sampling across school level and size resulted in a final sample of 296 elementary schools, 146 middle and junior high schools, and 124 high schools (total = 566). The overall response rate was 73%. RESULTS Eleven percent of elementary, 2% of middle or junior high, and 31% of senior high schools met the SHPP's criterion of providing daily physical education. Ninety-four percent of elementary schools reported offering daily recess. Overall, 42.3% of schools provided student and community access to indoor facilities outside of normal school hours, while 80.7% of schools provided access to outdoor facilities beyond normal school hours. CONCLUSIONS Survey results are being used to target increased physical education in elementary schools and increased opportunities beyond physical education at all school levels.
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Tompkins NO, Dino GA, Zedosky LK, Harman M, Shaler G. A collaborative partnership to enhance school-based tobacco control policies in West Virginia. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Am J Prev Med 1999; 16:29-34. [PMID: 10198678 DOI: 10.1016/s0749-3797(98)00150-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Guidelines for School Health Programs to Prevent Tobacco Use and Addiction were developed, in part, to help state and local education agencies implement effective school-based tobacco control programs. This paper: (1) reports on school tobacco policies, one facet of a larger investigation conducted to examine the consistency between WV's school-based tobacco control policies and programs and the CDC Tobacco Guidelines and (2) describes the impact this investigation had on state policy in WV. METHODS A content analysis was conducted on all (n = 55) county tobacco policies using a coding protocol developed by the authors. This protocol was designed to enable judgment about whether the county policies addressed particular elements specified in the CDC Tobacco Guidelines. Additionally, data about school-level policies, collected from a telephone survey of a sample of school principals (n = 421), are presented. Since the purpose of the needs assessment was to describe current practice, frequencies were computed for both the county and school-level analyses. RESULTS Both county- and school-level tobacco policies were found lacking in many of the elements recommended in CDC's Tobacco Guidelines, particularly in the areas of enforcement procedures and access to cessation programs. CONCLUSIONS Two major outcomes resulted from this needs assessment: (1) the WV State Board of Education's Tobacco Control Policy was revised to be more consistent with CDC's Tobacco Guidelines and (2) increased attention is now being focused on providing cessation options for WV schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- N O Tompkins
- Prevention Research Center, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Charleston, WV 25304, USA
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Abstract
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention's School Guidelines to Prevent Tobacco Use and Addiction were developed, in part, to assist state and local education agencies in adopting and implementing effective school-based tobacco prevention and cessation programs. This project assessed state education agency awareness of and reaction to the Guidelines, and documented efforts to disseminate the Guidelines to local schools. Key informants in 15 state education agencies were interviewed. Respondents reported a fairly high level of receptivity to the Guidelines, numerous benefits and few barriers, and high commitment. Levels of use for the Guidelines varied. Dissemination strategies such as mass mailing or teleconferences are not sufficient to influence the use and integration of Guidelines for school health. The diffusion process requires planned change over time through numerous communication channels and should be monitored at the national, state, and local levels to assess effectiveness and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- L McCormick
- Dept. of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, Athens 30602-3652, USA
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