Free afterschool program for at-risk African American children: findings and lessons

Fam Community Health. 2013 Oct-Dec;36(4):299-310. doi: 10.1097/FCH.0b013e31829d2497.

Abstract

A promising afterschool intervention to increase health knowledge and influence choices to reduce risks related to type II diabetes in school-aged, low-income, African American youth is described. Researchers used a community-based program called CASTLES (Communities and Students Together for Learning Enhanced Service). Repeated measures were used to test the effect of the afterschool program on exercise and nutrition. Forty-six children participated in this free program. Significant results demonstrated decreased consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and screen time and increased exercise and health knowledge. Communities interested in influencing behaviors related to childhood obesity should develop strong community-based programs, such as the CASTLES model, incorporating nutrition information and structured physical activity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Black or African American
  • Child
  • Child Health Services*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / ethnology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / prevention & control*
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Education*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity
  • Obesity / ethnology
  • Obesity / prevention & control
  • Play and Playthings
  • Poverty
  • Tennessee