Community Program to Promote Physical Activity and Improve Health Equity in Children Aged 12 to 16 at VDU Atalynas Progymnasium, Lithuania

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore if environmental and behavioral changes can increase physical activity and improve health outcomes in children aged 12 to 16 years attending VDU Atalynas Progymnasium in Lithuania. It investigates how physical activity and lifestyle improvements might reduce health differences among children facing social and economic challenges. The study also examines links between environmental pollution, physical activity, and health indicators, focusing on disadvantaged youth. The study involves two phases a cross-sectional baseline assessment and an interventional follow-up. About 200 children will complete questionnaires about health behaviors, well-being, and environment, along with physical measurements like blood pressure, height, weight, and body composition. A smaller group of approximately 20 children will wear CE-certified smart wristbands for 7 days to monitor activity, sleep, and heart rate, followed by a 3-month follow-up to assess changes after community and behavioral interventions. Participants will fill out questionnaires, undergo physical checks, and for selected children, wear wristbands to track health patterns. Researchers will analyze data on blood pressure and body composition changes, physical activity levels, and self-reported well-being from baseline through the 3-month follow-up. The study prioritizes protecting participant privacy, monitoring adherence, and evaluating the impact of combined environmental and behavioral interventions over time.

Co-creating School Community Intervention Program on Physical Activity to Increase Health Equity in Children and Adolescents