Childhood obesity. A review of school-based preventive interventions

Abstract

Objective Assess the efficacy of the components of school-based preventive interventions in improving the nutritional quality of children's intake, in increasing their time of physical activity (PA), and ultimately in reducing childhood obesity. Methods A review of the research literature published between 2009 -2014 was conducted. Inclusion criteria was: systematic reviews, meta-analysis or reports regarding the impact of recommendations and specific governmental policies as well as of randomized or non-randomized controlled, transversal and quasi-experimental trials with evaluations at 6 or more months after baseline that reported objectives measures of outcome. Results 25 scientific publication met inclusion criteria. Conclusions Although generalizability of results is limited by the heterogeneity of the studies, it appears that there is no evidence that a specific intervention component is more effective. Contrarily, multi-component programs, especially if they combine a change in quality intake together with an increase in PA seem to contribute to prevent childhood obesity. Evidence regarding regulation policies is non-conclusive and probably requires broader interventions that contemplate the socio-cultural context of the target population.