Influence of school health promotion on the life habits of schoolchildren

Abstract

Abstract Introduction In recent decades, attention has been directed at global theories that attempt to prevent childhood obesity by exposing them to healthy environments. The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of health-promoting environments in primary schools in Logrono (La Rioja, Spain) on the habits of school children. Methods The directors of the 31 primary schools in the city completed a questionnaire which examined the health promotion activities of their schools. In addition, anthropometric measurements, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and sedentary and physical activity habits were recorded from a representative sample of 329 schoolchildren in the sixth year of primary education (11–12 year-olds). Results The majority of schools had developed nutritional and/or physical activity programs (77.4% and 61.3%, respectively); however, teachers had generally not received specific training in that area. Guidelines regarding healthy habits were not formally included in the School Educational Project. Physical activity, which was greater amongst boys ( P P Conclusions Although further research is required, this study shows that certain modifiable aspects in the organisational or school environment can influence the habits of school children at a fundamental stage of their development.