A Policy and Environmental Response to Overweight in Childhood: The Impact of Gold Medal Schools
2008

Impact of Gold Medal Schools on Childhood Overweight

Sample size: 166600 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Neiger Brad L, Thackeray Rosemary, Hanson Carl L, Rigby Sarah, Hussey Chelsea, Anderson Jonathan W

Primary Institution: Brigham Young University

Hypothesis

Does the Gold Medal Schools program effectively reduce overweight among children?

Conclusion

The Gold Medal Schools program has led to the development of numerous health policies and environmental changes in schools, promoting healthier lifestyles among children.

Supporting Evidence

  • 316 schools and approximately 166,600 students participated in the GMS program.
  • 2,205 policies and 2,121 environmental changes have been developed.
  • 87% of participating schools implemented their worksite health promotion policy.

Takeaway

The Gold Medal Schools program helps schools create healthier environments for kids, making it easier for them to eat well and be active.

Methodology

The program involved schools developing policies and environments to support healthy eating and physical activity, with schools earning medals for meeting specific criteria.

Limitations

Impact or outcome data have not been systematically collected, and the program lacks specific data about the impact on student health status.

Participant Demographics

Children aged 6 to 11 years and adolescents aged 12 to 19 years from 37 Utah school districts.

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