Work

BeE-school: promoting health literacy and reducing obesity risk in vulnerable school communities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) risks often begin in childhood and are shaped by modifiable determinants such as unhealthy diet and imbalanced 24-hour movement patterns. These risks are especially pronounced in socially vulnerable groups. Despite increasing recognition of NCDs as a public health priority, prevention efforts remain inconsistent. In this context, strengthening health literacy and promoting healthy lifestyles through school-based approaches is crucial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the BeE-school health literacy intervention. Methods BeE-school is a cluster-RTC conducted in 10 primary schools in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas of Northern Portugal. N = 735 children (6-12 y.) participated in the intervention, which is grounded in health promotion theory and the Fogg behavior model. It involved a 16-week programme comprising accredited teacher training (48 hours), classroom activities, and biweekly family challenges focusing on nutrition, movement, emotional well-being, and misinformation resilience. Data on anthropometrics, lifestyles, and health literacy were collected at baseline, post-intervention (4 months), and at long-term follow-up (12 months). Results Children in the intervention group exhibited significant reductions in BMI Z-scores, waist-to-height, and waist-to-weight ratios after the intervention, with BMI improvements sustained at 12-month follow-up. Higher parental health literacy was associated with greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet and lower odds of childhood overweight/obesity. Among families with lower education levels, more quality time together was also protective. Conclusions BeE-school is a promising, sustainable program to foster health literacy and reduce obesity risk among vulnerable children. Its success highlights the value of integrating health promotion, co-creation, and family engagement within school settings to tackle early determinants of NCDs.

Source: European Journal of Public Health

DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaf161.163

Authors: R Rosário, MJ Silva, A Duarte, J Martins, S Martins, C Augusto

Institutions: Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Coimbra, University of Coimbra, University of Minho, ProChild CoLAB

Language: English

Topic: Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,181