Household and family factors related to weight status in first through third graders: a cross-sectional study in Eastern Massachusetts.

Background: Early environmental influences have been linked to child weight status, however further understanding of associations in diverse populations is needed.

Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of household and family factors associated with overweight was conducted on a culturally diverse, urban dwelling sample of 820 first through third graders (mean age 7.6 ± 1.

Comparison of online and face-to-face dissemination of a theory-based after school nutrition and physical activity training and curriculum.

This study was conducted to compare two different online delivery methods to train after school program leaders (ASPLs) to implement a nutrition and physical activity curriculum for children to each other and to a face-to-face (FTF) training model. A three-group design was used in which ASPLs from 12 states were randomized to either standard (n = 34) or an enhanced interaction (n = 31) online training, while a FTF group (n = 24) served as comparison. All ASPLs completed training and implemented curriculum lessons over 16 weeks from March to June 2007.

Community interventions: a brief overview and their application to the obesity epidemic.

Community-based interventions built on theory and informed by community members produce potent, sustainable change. This intervention model mobilizes inherent community assets and pinpoints specific needs. Advancing community-based research to address obesity will require training of future leaders in this methodology, funding to conduct rigorous trials, and scientific acceptance of this model.