Evaluation of F.I.T. Kids: A school-based program aimed to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease

Objective: Standards in nutrition and physical activity are not being met for school children in the state of Michigan. Changes in these health habits can help prevent future cardiovascular disease. This project aims to evaluate the impact of F.I.T. Kids, a school-based health screening and education program aimed to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors amongst 5th graders. Methods: Data were obtained from pre- and post-F.I.T. Kids assessments for the 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 school years in 11 select schools. The pre- and post-assessments included a Heart Health Knowledge Test, a physical activity questionnaire, and a dietary questionnaire. Post-assessments were administered three months after participation in the program. Results: Among the respondents assessed at both pre- and post-F.I.T. Kids, there was a significant increase in the consumption per day of grains (df=365; t=2.818; p=0.005), vegetables (df=365; t=7.442; p<0.001), fruits (df=365; t=7.525; p<0.001), meat (df=365; t=6.347; p<0.001), and dairy products (df=365; t=3.204; p=0.001) after participation in F.I.T. Kids. After participation, there was a significant increase in knowledge of heart health and cardiovascular disease (df=470; t=9.967; p<0.001) and a significant increase in physical activity levels (df=446; t=11.720; p<0.001). The students with the lowest pre-scores for all of the measurements had the greatest increase in scores from pre- to post-. Conclusions: The short-term changes observed in the present study are encouraging and indicate great potential for progressive improvement in the health of Michigan's children.