Date of Graduation

2008

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

Committee Chair

Cindy Fitch

Abstract

West Virginia is the second most rural state in the nation, with 24% of its families having incomes of less than 100% of the federal poverty level. Children of low income families are a vulnerable population at high risk for obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular complications. The Helping H.A.N.D. (Health Awareness & Nutritious Decisions) program is a socioeconomic focused health initiative designed by Megan Govindan B.S. and Cindy Fitch Ph.D., RD to improve the diet and activity of West Virginian children from low-income families. Funded by the 2007 General Mills Champions for Healthy Kids grant, this 23-week nutrition & wellness initiative was delivered at an after-school center – The Shack Neighborhood House in Pursglove, WV. Thirty-six children ages 5- 11 years were educated about the importance of nutrition and physical activity through involvement in information sessions and activities. The dance-pad video game Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) and distribution of athletic equipment were also being used to promote activity. Outcomes were assessed via pre/post participation anthropometric data, pre/post FITNESSGRAM skills tests, and DDR participation. This intervention will empower youth to take control of their health by making informed decisions and aid parents in sustainable lifestyle changes. Multi-faceted health promotion at an impressionable age is crucial to the prevention and control of detrimental behavior. Health promotion at an early age can aid in sustainable healthy lifestyle choices. This program has provided baseline data to follow this population in a longitudinal study of youth health promotion to determine long term efficacy. Evaluation of this health promotion initiative has provided information about effectiveness and improvement for further program development. This program can be delivered at a state-wide, county extension office level.

Download

Share

COinS