Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating an eHealth Platform to Promote Healthy Habits Among Adolescents in Disadvantaged Settings

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating an eHealth platform called ePro-Schools designed to promote physical activity, healthy eating, and reduce sedentary behavior among adolescents from socially disadvantaged backgrounds in Central Catalonia. The study aims to address gaps in public health policies by co-designing the platform with adolescents, school staff, and policymakers. This randomized controlled trial will assess the program's effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and implementation in six secondary schools with around 1000 adolescent participants. The intervention includes two digital platforms: an Intervention Platform containing interactive modules for students and physical education teachers, and an Information Platform with educational resources for students, teachers, and families. The program will be delivered during one school year (2025/26) through web-based access. Schools are randomized into an intervention group receiving full access to the platform and a control group receiving only basic health-related information, with the control group gaining access to the full platform after the trial. Participants will be evaluated at baseline, post-intervention, and nine months after post-intervention for physical activity levels, sedentary behavior, and dietary habits, which are the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include physical fitness, water consumption, quality of life, depressive symptoms, social isolation, and sleep quality. The study also involves surveys, questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups to monitor adoption, acceptability, and feasibility. The total participation covers the school year and follow-up period with continuous engagement and data collection.

ePlatform for Promoting Health in Schools