Food & Health Alliance

Osganian, S. K.; Parcel, G. S. & Stone, E. J.  Department of Medicine, Children’s Hospital, Boston; University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health and Department of Physical Performance and Development, University of New Mexico. (2003).  

Study that examines the long-term impact of a physical activity intervention in American schools. 

The Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH) intervention was carried out in 96 schools and consisted of a number of factors:  school policy and practice, physical activity and smoking. 

The intervention was implemented with in the classroom, in the school food service areas and in the P.E. departments.  A positive effect of the intervention was observed on physical activity and nutrition behaviours.  The intervention also managed to change attitudes and knowledge.  This study aimed to investigate the conditions required for the intervention to institutionalised within the school after the trial has ended. 

Findings:  The report suggests that it was difficult to generalise the new skills and information into the general practice of physical activity within the school.  However the results of the study suggests that the impact of the intervention can be sustained in some schools.

A key factor that was identified was the need for staff training and administrative support in order to make an intervention sustainable.  The need for increased funding for facilities and equipment was also emphasised. 

Implications:  This study identifies key factors that allow interventions to become institutionalised into a schools general practice.  The information from this study should assist future interventions in order increase their sustained effect. 

The CATCH-ON study is further investigated in the journal through a number of specific articles focusing on factors of the intervention.

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