College of Public Health and Human Sciences

Objective

Prevent childhood obesity among high school athletes ages 14-19y in Oregon.

Description

Two year sport nutrition and life skills intervention with hands-on lessons in both physical and virtual worlds. In Fall 2015, 611 of 870 high school athletes from 13 schools in Oregon were enrolled in WAVE (intervention group [IG]=495, comparison group [CG]=166 ). Participants were 53.3% females, mean age of 15.3±1.2 (13-18y), 57.6% participating in free or reduced lunch, and ethnically diverse (White=49.7%, Latino=42.7%, Asian=4.7%, other=2.9%). At baseline, Body Mass Index (BMI, kg/m2) was significantly lower among males and females in IG than CG; 9 months later, IG female’s BMI remained significantly lower than that of CG females. Attrition at the end of Year 1 intervention (9th month) was 35% for IG and CG. Overall, attrition in anthropometric, sport nutrition knowledge and dietary assessments ranged from 31 to 39%.

Evalution

During Year 1, Fitbit wearing decreased by 37% in IG and CG. Exclusive intervention activities such as Rippleville (virtual world) and summer camp dropped by 40% and 45%, respectively but participation in the life-skill workshops increased from 29% to 39%. Each participant was provided feedback through a quarterly printed health report and score card; $5-$35 gift cards after completing assessments; and various gifts such as water bottle, towel, socks, snacks, and swag.

Conclusion and Implications

Attrition rates are within the 40% estimation. Whether it is in or outside soccer season, Extension 4-H soccer program coordinator, coaches, and team captains are critical to keeping the participants engaged in the 2y study.

Funding

2013-67001-20418