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Formative research to inform the development of a community‐based intervention for chronic disease prevention in Guatemalan school‐age children
Author(s) -
Letona Paola,
Gittelsohn Joel,
Ramirez-Zea Manuel,
Caballero Benjamin
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.26.1_supplement.246.6
Subject(s) - focus group , psychological intervention , health promotion , intervention (counseling) , formative assessment , medicine , environmental health , promotion (chess) , government (linguistics) , gerontology , psychology , public health , nursing , political science , pedagogy , linguistics , philosophy , marketing , politics , law , business
Objective Chronic disease risk factors have increased in children, even in developing countries. Preventive interventions that address modifiable risk factors are needed. Formative research was conducted to assess perceptions about health concerns for children; factors that influence their diet, physical activity and tobacco use; and community resources available for the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Methods A convenience sample of 6 schools located in 3 low‐income urban communities of Guatemala City was studied. At each school, focus group discussions, semi‐structured interviews, home visits, and direct observations of the surroundings were conducted, with the participation of children (10–12 y old), teachers, parents, school administrators, food vendors and community leaders. Results All groups expressed similar concerns about modifiable risk factors in children, including high violence rates, food advertising, mother's employment, family customs, bullying and negative emotions that seem to increase unhealthy behaviors. Adults were more concerned with tobacco and alcohol use compared to unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. Government programs and religious groups were identified as community resources. Conclusions These findings were used to develop the first community‐based intervention for chronic disease prevention in Guatemala. Grant Funding Source : NHLBI ‐ HHSN 268200900028C