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THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY MEDICINE - Volume 11, Issue 4, October-December 2024

Pages: 5-14
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Investigating the Impact of Multifaceted School-Based Interventions on Childhood and Adolescent Obesity Prevention in Rural Communities: A Health Educational Αpproach

Author: Ioannis A. Delimaris

Category: Medical

Abstract:

Introduction: Childhood and adolescent obesity represents a critical public health challenge, particularly in rural communities hindered by unique sociocultural and environmental factors.

Objective: The aim of the present study is to investigate the impact of multifaceted school-based interventions on childhood and adolescent obesity prevention in rural communities using a health educational approach.

Design: Mini narrative review.

Materials and methods: The material of the present study was exclusively Internet-based. The method was comprehensive electronic literature search [ literature published from 2009 to 2024 (15 years)] in the databases PubMed and Google Scholar from 10 April 2024 to 10 June 2024.

Results and Discussion: The review of the literature on the impact of multifaceted school-based interventions on childhood and adolescent obesity prevention in rural communities revealed that diverse strategies have been successfully implemented to address this growing epidemic. Studies show that federal policies have effectively increased physical activity in schools despite challenges. Successful interventions improved school food environments and student dietary choices, reducing Body Mass Index (BMI) through initiatives like limiting sugary drinks. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders and culturally-tailored programs proved essential for engaging diverse populations and ensuring intervention success.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that multifaceted school-based interventions can lead to significant improvements in preventing obesity among children and adolescents in rural communities. However, there is a need for further research to explore long-term effects and to identify sustainable strategies that can be adopted across varying educational environments. Continued investigation into stakeholder engagement, policy integration, and the adaptation of interventions to accommodate cultural and contextual factors is essential for advancing obesity prevention efforts in these areas.

Keywords: interventions, children, adolescents, schools, obesity, rural, health education

DOI: 10.51546/JSUM.2024.11401

DOI URL: https://doi.org/10.51546/JSUM.2024.11401

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