Primary prevention of type-2 diabetes and heart disease: Action research in secondary schools serving an ethnically diverse UK population

Abstract

Background Escalating rates of childhood obesity are likely to have an impact on the prevalence of coronary heart disease and type-2 diabetes. We aimed to identify barriers to healthy lifestyles and evaluate the effectiveness of an action research approach to lifestyle modification in secondary schools. Methods An action research partnership between schools and university researchers involved pupils aged 11-15 in five inner-city secondary schools serving a predominantly South Asian population in Leicester, UK. Data collection included baseline and follow-up diet and physical activity questionnaires. Focus groups and observational visits were used to identify barriers, assist with developing tailored interventions and review the impact of the study. Results Working with secondary schools presented challenges but a useful partnership was sustained. Qualitative feedback suggested that this had raised awareness of healthy lifestyle issues in participating schools. Barriers in pupils included low prioritization of health when making lifestyle choices. Sub-optimal diet and activity habits were identified at baseline. Overall, these persisted at follow-up, although some limited positive changes were identified. Conclusions Using action research methods in this context is challenging but can facilitate useful data collection and may have a modest impact on lifestyle behaviours.