Pilot Study Assessing the Baseline Physical Activity and Knowledge of Heart Health of Elementary School-Aged Children in Rural South Carolina and the Impact of an Interactive Educational Program

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study asked whether, if provided with education on heart-healthy habits, elementary school children in Abbeville, Greenwood, and Saluda counties in South Carolina would retain and desire to implement healthy nutrition and increased exercise. We hypothesized that teaching children about heart-healthy habits would increase their activity levels and improve their desire to be active. METHODS: This was a longitudinal survey study. Children at local after-school programs were given a pre-survey, the Kids' Activity and Nutrition Questionnaire (KAN-Q), to assess their activity levels, diet, and knowledge of heart health. The children had a 15-minute educational period followed by an interactive program. Students completed the same survey at each of the three sessions. FINDINGS: A total of 44 children answered the survey questions at the beginning of each session. Out of the 10 behavioral questions, six indicated a favorable shift towards adopting healthier habits. Whole grain consumption increased to 71% from 32% (p<0.01). Vegetable consumption increased from 39% to 88%, and fruit consumption increased from 68% to 92% (p<0.01). There was a 30% decrease in the consumption of sugary drinks (p<0.01), and a reduction in hours watching television (p=0.05). All four knowledge-based questions had an increase in correct responses across the three sessions (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: To augment behavior, a dual approach of education on nutrition and exercise leads to improved nutrition choices and exercise habits for primary prevention of cardiovascular risk factors in elementary school-aged children. These habits improve adherence to increased physical activity and better nutrition after school.