Pediatrics & Therapeutics
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-0665
+44 1478 350008
ISSN: 2161-0665
+44 1478 350008
L. Smith, C. Smathers, C. Oliveri and M.E. Wewers
College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, USA College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, USA OSU Extension Office, The Ohio State University, USA
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Pediatr Therapeut
Background: Sugar sweetened beverages are the largest source of added sugar in the U. S. diet. Currently, the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is estimated to add 224 kcal/day or 11% of total daily calories. On a typical day, 80% of youth consume sugar-sweetened beverages. Th e highest consumers are adolescents aged 12-19 years old, attributing to 13% of their total daily caloric intake. Children and teens in U. S. Appalachia have high consumption rates compared to others their same age. High consumption of sugar sweetened beverages has been associated with obesity, diabetes, elevated triglycerides, cardiovascular disease, and dental caries.
Objectives: To engage rural Appalachia in health initiatives, a community-based participatory research project was undertaken.
Methods: Essential information and input from the community residents was obtained via health surveys and focus group sessions. A pilot study was developed aimed at impacting teens’ sugar- sweetened beverage consumption. Th e intervention study consisted of the creation of a Teen Advisory Council to design the intervention: a “Sodabrity” 30-Day Challenge at a local school. A pre-test-posttest design was used. Th e Council: (a) designed a social marketing campaign, (b) supported participants during the Challenge; and (c) worked with school offi cials to change environmental factors such as vending machine options.
Results: Signifi cant reduction in SSB consumption and signifi cant increase in water consumption immediately post-intervention and 30 days post intervention. Signifi cant increase in teens abstaining from SSB consumption for 30 days.
Conclusion: CBPR to addressing SSB consumption can have a sustainable and meaningful impact on adolescent health behaviors, specifi cally targeting lifestyle behaviors.