Publication: Participatory action project in reducing childhood obesity in Thai primary schools
Issued Date
2011-11-01
Resource Type
ISSN
10105395
Other identifier(s)
2-s2.0-82955241266
Rights
Mahidol University
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health. Vol.23, No.6 (2011), 917-927
Suggested Citation
Chutima Sirikulchayanonta, Patcharanee Pavadhgul, Rewadee Chongsuwat, Jeeranun Klaewkla Participatory action project in reducing childhood obesity in Thai primary schools. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health. Vol.23, No.6 (2011), 917-927. doi:10.1177/1010539510361965 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/12228
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Title
Participatory action project in reducing childhood obesity in Thai primary schools
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Abstract
The project aimed to improve nutrition and activity among primary schoolchildren via targeted activities. A preliminary nutritional survey was carried out involving 5126 children in 4 Bangkok public schools. Participatory action research involving students, teachers, and parents was conducted. After a 2-day training course, teachers integrated project concepts into their course curriculum. Seminars on weight management were given separately to parents and students. After 8 months, postnutritional survey was conducted. Preprogram and postprogram evaluation of obese and normal groups was done using questionnaires on dietary intake and exercise. Results showed that high caloric dietary intake significantly decreased for the obese group (P < .001). Aerobic exercise activity also increased in both groups (P < .001) and prevalence of obesity declined from 19.3% to 16.8%. Thus, a long-term, participatory effort to promote healthy diets and physical exercise could be effective with primary school students and may establish habits that last to later life. © 2011 Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health.