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Heinze C, Hartmeyer RD, Sidenius A, Ringgaard LW, Bjerregaard AL, Krølner RF, Allender S, Bauman A, Klinker CD. Developing and Evaluating a Data-Driven and Systems Approach to Health Promotion Among Vocational Students: Protocol for the Data Health Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e52571. [PMID: 38319698 PMCID: PMC10879971 DOI: 10.2196/52571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vocational school students exhibit significant risk behaviors in terms of poor diet, frequent use of nicotine products, inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, low levels of physical activity, and poor mental health. This makes vocational students vulnerable to the development of noncommunicable diseases. Therefore, effective health promotion programs targeting vocational students are required. OBJECTIVE The Danish study "Data-driven and Systems Approach to Health Promotion Among Vocational Students" (Data Health) aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a systems approach to support vocational schools, municipalities, and local communities in implementing locally relevant health promotion actions among and for vocational students. This paper describes the Data Health program and how implementation and preliminary effectiveness will be evaluated. METHODS The Data Health program offers an iterative 5-step process to develop changes in the systems that shape health behavior and well-being among vocational students. The program will be implemented and evaluated in 8 Danish vocational schools in 4 municipalities. The implementation of the process and actions will be explored using a systems-based evaluation design that assesses contextual differences and the mechanisms through which the program leads to changes in the systems. Preliminary effectiveness at the individual level (students' self-reported health behavior and well-being) and organizational level (school organizational readiness reported by school staff) will be assessed using a quasi-experimental design, and cross-sectional data will be collected at all 8 schools simultaneously 4 times during the 2-year study period. RESULTS This study was launched in 2021, and data collection is expected to be completed in June 2024. The first results are expected to be submitted for publication in January 2024. CONCLUSIONS We expect that the Data Health study will make significant contributions to complex intervention research by contributing to the paucity of research studies that have used systems approaches in school settings. The study will also provide evidence of successful elements for systems change and effectiveness to determine whether a national scale-up can be recommended. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05308459; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05308459. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/52571.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Heinze
- Department of Prevention, Health Promotion and Community Care, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Dalgaard Hartmeyer
- Department of Prevention, Health Promotion and Community Care, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anne Sidenius
- Department of Prevention, Health Promotion and Community Care, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Lene Winther Ringgaard
- Department of Prevention, Health Promotion and Community Care, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | | | - Steven Allender
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adrian Bauman
- Department of Prevention, Health Promotion and Community Care, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- School of Public Health, Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Charlotte Demant Klinker
- Department of Prevention, Health Promotion and Community Care, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
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Felmingham T, O'Halloran S, Poorter J, Rhook E, Needham C, Hayward J, Fraser P, Kilpatrick S, Leahy D, Allender S. Systems thinking in local government: intervention design and adaptation in a community-based study. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:90. [PMID: 37667377 PMCID: PMC10478182 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-01034-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systems thinking approaches are increasingly being used by communities to address complex chronic disease. This paper reports on the VicHealth Local Government Partnership (VLGP) which sought to co-create improvements in the health and well-being of children and young people by working with local government in Victoria, Australia. METHODS The VLGP included a series of health promotion modules, aimed at creating policy, programme and practice changes across local government. One of these modules, Connecting the Dots - creating solutions for lasting change, aimed to build capacity for systems thinking in municipal public health and well-being planning across 13 councils. The approach was adapted and data were collected on the stimuli for, and results of, adaptation. RESULTS The council adapted the systems thinking approach to meet geographic characteristics, priority health issue/s and participant target group needs. Adaptions applied to workshop materials, training delivery, existing and new resources, and to align with other community-based approaches. Stimuli for adaptation included the COVID-19 pandemic, needs of children and young people, capacity of council to deliver the workshop series, and time available within the project or for the participant group. CONCLUSIONS Systems thinking was used and adapted by councils to improve the health and well-being of children and young people and increase the voices of children and young people in decision-making. Flexible delivery is critical to ensure communities can adapt the approach to meet local needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiana Felmingham
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
| | - Siobhan O'Halloran
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Jaimie Poorter
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Ebony Rhook
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Barwon South West Public Health Unit, Geelong, Australia
| | - Cindy Needham
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Joshua Hayward
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Penny Fraser
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | | | | | - Steven Allender
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, 1 Geringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
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Li B, Alharbi M, Allender S, Swinburn B, Peters R, Foster C. Comprehensive application of a systems approach to obesity prevention: a scoping review of empirical evidence. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1015492. [PMID: 37614454 PMCID: PMC10442543 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1015492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A systems approach to obesity prevention is increasingly urged. However, confusion exists on what a systems approach entails in practice, and the empirical evidence on this new approach is unclear. This scoping review aimed to identify and synthesise studies/programmes that have comprehensively applied a systems approach to obesity prevention in intervention development, delivery/implementation, and evaluation. By searching international databases and grey literature, only three studies (10 publications) met inclusion criteria, which might be explained partially by suboptimal reporting. No conclusion on the effectiveness of this approach can be drawn yet due to the limited evidence base. We identified common features shared by the included studies, such as measuring ongoing changes, in addition to endpoint outcomes, and supporting capacity building. Some facilitators and barriers to applying a comprehensive systems approach in practice were identified. More well-designed and reported studies are needed, especially from low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai Li
- Centre for Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed Alharbi
- Centre for Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Steve Allender
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Boyd Swinburn
- School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Remco Peters
- Centre for Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Charlie Foster
- Centre for Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Whelan J, Hayward J, Nichols M, Brown AD, Orellana L, Brown V, Becker D, Bell C, Swinburn B, Peeters A, Moodie M, Geddes SA, Chadwick C, Allender S, Strugnell C. Reflexive Evidence and Systems interventions to Prevention Obesity and Non-communicable Disease (RESPOND): protocol and baseline outcomes for a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised prevention trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057187. [PMID: 36581987 PMCID: PMC9438198 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systems science methodologies have been used in attempts to address the complex and dynamic causes of childhood obesity with varied results. This paper presents a protocol for the Reflexive Evidence and Systems interventions to Prevention Obesity and Non-communicable Disease (RESPOND) trial. RESPOND represents a significant advance on previous approaches by identifying and operationalising a clear systems methodology and building skills and knowledge in the design and implementation of this approach among community stakeholders. METHODS AND ANALYSIS RESPOND is a 4-year cluster-randomised stepped-wedge trial in 10 local government areas in Victoria, Australia. The intervention comprises four stages: catalyse and set up, monitoring, community engagement and implementation. The trial will be evaluated for individuals, community settings and context, cost-effectiveness, and systems and implementation processes. Individual-level data including weight status, diet and activity behaviours will be collected every 2 years from school children in grades 2, 4 and 6 using an opt-out consent process. Community-level data will include knowledge and engagement, collaboration networks, economic costs and shifts in mental models aligned with systems training. Baseline prevalence data were collected between March and June 2019 among >3700 children from 91 primary schools. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval: Deakin University Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC 2018-381) or Deakin University's Faculty of Health Ethics Advisory Committee (HEAG-H_2019-1; HEAG-H 37_2019; HEAG-H 173_2018; HEAG-H 12_2019); Victorian Government Department of Education and Training (2019_003943); Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne (Catholic Education Melbourne, 2019-0872) and Diocese of Sandhurst (24 May 2019). The results of RESPOND, including primary and secondary outcomes, and emerging studies developed throughout the intervention, will be published in the academic literature, presented at national and international conferences, community newsletters, newspapers, infographics and relevant social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12618001986268p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Whelan
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joshua Hayward
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melanie Nichols
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew D Brown
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liliana Orellana
- Biostatistics Unit, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Victoria Brown
- Deakin Health Economics, Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Denise Becker
- Biostatistics Unit, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Colin Bell
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Boyd Swinburn
- School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Anna Peeters
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marj Moodie
- Deakin Health Economics, Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sandy A Geddes
- Department of Health and Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Craig Chadwick
- Goulburn Valley Primary Care Partnership, Shepparton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Allender
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claudia Strugnell
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Browne J, Becker D, Orellana L, Ryan J, Walker T, Whelan J, Alston L, Egan M, Johnson B, Rossignoli A, Crooks N, Brown AD, Bolton KA, Fraser P, Le H, Bell C, Hayward J, Sanigorski A, Backholer K, Allender S, Strugnell C. Healthy weight, health behaviours and quality of life among Aboriginal children living in regional Victoria. Aust N Z J Public Health 2022; 46:595-603. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Browne
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Denise Becker
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Liliana Orellana
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Joleen Ryan
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Troy Walker
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Jill Whelan
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Laura Alston
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Deakin Rural Health, Faculty of Health Deakin University Warrnambool Victoria
| | - Mikaela Egan
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Melbourne Victoria
| | - Brittney Johnson
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Melbourne Victoria
| | - Amy Rossignoli
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Melbourne Victoria
| | - Nicholas Crooks
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Andrew D. Brown
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Kristy A. Bolton
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Penny Fraser
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Ha Le
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Deakin Health Economics, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Colin Bell
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Josh Hayward
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Andrew Sanigorski
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
| | - Steven Allender
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
- Deakin Rural Health, Faculty of Health Deakin University Warrnambool Victoria
| | - Claudia Strugnell
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health Deakin University Geelong Victoria
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A Theory of Change for Community-Based Systems Interventions to Prevent Obesity. Am J Prev Med 2022; 62:786-794. [PMID: 34865936 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Applying systems science in public health trials is a recent innovation in childhood obesity prevention. This paper aims to use systems science conventions to propose a theory of change for community-based interventions aiming to build capacity and use exemplars from systems science for obesity prevention to describe how this approach works. METHODS Participants were community-based researchers. A dynamic hypothesis was created in workshops conducted in 2020 and 2021 by identifying variables critical to building community capacity for systems thinking. These were used to develop stock and flow diagrams representing individual causal relationships, feedback loops, and the overall theory of change. RESULTS The resultant model identified 9 stocks and 4 pairs of central balancing and reinforcing feedback loops. These represented building commitment through relationships, mutual learning, strengthening collaboration, and embedding capacity. The model is described using examples from 3 trials involving 25 communities across Victoria, Australia. CONCLUSIONS This nonlinear and practice-based model illustrates the process of community-based obesity prevention. The model integrates >20 years of community-based intervention implementation experience, providing an overarching theory of how such interventions work to create change and prevent obesity.
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Bolton KA, Whelan J, Fraser P, Bell C, Allender S, Brown AD. The Public Health 12 framework: interpreting the 'Meadows 12 places to act in a system' for use in public health. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:72. [PMID: 35255970 PMCID: PMC8900091 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-00835-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systems science approaches have demonstrated effectiveness in identifying underlying drivers of complex problems and facilitating the emergence of potential interventions that are locally tailored, feasible, sustainable and evidence informed. Despite the potential usefulness of system dynamics simulation modelling and other systems science modelling techniques in guiding implementation, time and cost constraints have limited its ability to provide strong guidance on how to implement complex interventions in communities. Guidance is required to ensure systems interventions lead to impactful systems solutions, implemented utilising strategies from the intersecting fields of systems science and implementation science. To provide cost-effective guidance on how and where to implement in systems, we offer a translation of the 'Meadows 12 places to act in a system' (Meadows 12) into language useful for public health. METHODS This translation of Meadows 12 was informed by our experience in working with 31 communities across two complex large scale randomised control trials and one large whole of community case study. These research projects utilised systems science and implementation science to co-create childhood obesity prevention interventions. The team undertaking this translation comprised research academics, implementation specialists and practitioners, practice-based researchers and a systems dynamicist. Our translation of each of the Meadows 12 levels to act in the system maintains the fidelity and nuance of the 12 distinct levels. We provide examples of each level of the Public Health 12 framework (PH12) drawn from 31 communities. All research was conducted in Victoria, Australia between 2016 and 2020. RESULTS PH12 provides a framework to guide both research and practice in real world contexts to implement targeted system level interventions. PH12 can be used with existing implementation science theory to identify relevant strategies for implementation of these interventions to impact the system at each of the leverage points. CONCLUSION To date little guidance for public health practitioners and researchers exists regarding how to implement systems change in community-led public health interventions. PH12 enables operationalisation Meadows 12 systems theory into public health interventions. PH12 can help research and practice determine where leverage can be applied in the system to optimise public health systems level interventions and identify gaps in existing efforts. TRIAL REGISTRATION WHO STOPS: ANZCTR: 12616000980437 . RESPOND ANZCTR: 12618001986268p .
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy A Bolton
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Institute of Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jillian Whelan
- Institute of Health Transformation, School of Medicine, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Penny Fraser
- Institute of Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Colin Bell
- Institute of Health Transformation, School of Medicine, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Steven Allender
- Institute of Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Andrew D Brown
- Institute of Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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Browne J, Walker T, Brown A, Sherriff S, Christidis R, Egan M, Versace V, Allender S, Backholer K. Systems thinking for Aboriginal Health: Understanding the value and acceptability of group model building approaches. SSM Popul Health 2021; 15:100874. [PMID: 34355056 PMCID: PMC8325093 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Systems thinking is increasingly applied to understand and address systemic drivers of complex health problems. In Australia, group model building, a participatory method from systems science, has been applied in various locations to engage communities in systems-based health promotion projects. To date there is limited evidence regarding GMB use with Australian Aboriginal communities. This study aimed to determine the value and acceptability of group model building (GMB) as a methodological approach in research with Aboriginal communities and identify any adaptations required to optimise its utility. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 18 Aboriginal health and university staff who had prior experience with a GMB research project. Interview transcripts were inductively analysed using thematic analysis and key themes were organised using an Indigenous research framework. Participants reported that GMB methods generally aligned well with Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing. Participants valued the holistic, visual and collaborative nature of the method and its emphasis on sharing stories and collective decision-making. Group model building was viewed as a useful tool for identifying Aboriginal-led actions to address priority issues and advancing self-determination. Our findings suggest that by bringing together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal knowledge, GMB is a promising tool, which Aboriginal communities could utilise to explore and address complex problems in a manner that is consistent with their worldviews. In adapting group model building methods, non-Aboriginal researchers should aspire to move beyond co-design processes and enable Aboriginal health research to be entirely led by Aboriginal people. Group model building is a promising method for research with Aboriginal communities that is generally consistent with Aboriginal worldviews. Group Model Building may be a useful tool for identifying actions to address priority issues and advancing Aboriginal self-determination. Capacity building is required so that Group Model Building workshops, and ideally entire research projects, can be led by Aboriginal people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Browne
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Locked Bag, 20000, Geelong Victoria, Australia
| | - Troy Walker
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Locked Bag, 20000, Geelong Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Brown
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Locked Bag, 20000, Geelong Victoria, Australia
| | - Simone Sherriff
- Sax Institute, Level 3/30C Wentworth St, Glebe, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Christidis
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Locked Bag, 20000, Geelong Victoria, Australia
| | - Mikaela Egan
- Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, 17-23, Sackville St Collingwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vincent Versace
- Deakin Rural Health, School of Medicine, Deakin University, PO Box 423, Warrnambool Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Allender
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Locked Bag, 20000, Geelong Victoria, Australia
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Locked Bag, 20000, Geelong Victoria, Australia
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Jacobs J, Crooks N, Allender S, Strugnell C, Backholer K, Nichols M. Is the physical activity environment surrounding primary schools associated with students' weight status, physical activity or active transport, in regional areas of Victoria, Australia? A cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e045785. [PMID: 34215603 PMCID: PMC8256746 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore whether the physical activity (PA) environment (walkability, greenspace and recreational facilities) surrounding regional primary schools is associated with children's PA levels, active transport and weight status. Limited research on this topic has been conducted outside of major cities. DESIGN Cross-sectional ecological study using baseline data from two large-scale obesity prevention interventions. SETTING Eighty (n=80) primary schools across two regional areas in Victoria, Australia. PARTICIPANTS Students aged 8-13 years (n=2144) attending participating primary schools. OUTCOME MEASURES Measured weight status (body mass index z-score, proportion overweight/obese) and self-reported PA behaviours (meeting PA recommendations and active travel behaviour). RESULTS When adjusted for student and school demographics, students had significantly increased odds of using active transport to or from school when the school neighbourhood was more walkable (OR 1.21 (95% CI 1.09 to 1.35), had a greater number of greenspaces (OR 1.35 (95% CI 1.20 to 1.53)) and a greater number of recreational facilities (OR 1.18 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.31)). A higher cumulative PA environment score was also associated with a higher proportion of children using active transport (OR 1.33 (95% CI 1.28 to 1.51)). There were no significant associations between the PA environment measures and either weight status or meeting the PA recommendations in adjusted models. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first of its kind exploring school neighbourhood environments and child weight status and PA in regional areas of Australia. It highlights the potential of the environment surrounding primary schools in contributing to students' active travel to and from school. Further research with the use of objective PA measurement is warranted in regional areas that have been under-researched. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR.org.au) identifier 12616000980437; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Jacobs
- Global Obesity Centre, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nic Crooks
- Global Obesity Centre, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Allender
- Global Obesity Centre, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claudia Strugnell
- Global Obesity Centre, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Global Obesity Centre, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melanie Nichols
- Global Obesity Centre, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Whelan J, Strugnell C, Allender S, Korn AR, Brown AD, Orellana L, Hayward J, Brown V, Bell C, Moodie M, Peeters A, Nichols M. Protocol for the measurement of changes in knowledge and engagement in the stepped wedge cluster randomised trial for childhood obesity prevention in Australia: (Reflexive Evidence and Systems interventions to Prevent Obesity and Non-communicable Disease (RESPOND)). Trials 2020; 21:763. [PMID: 32887655 PMCID: PMC7650215 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04692-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Community-based interventions have shown promise in addressing the childhood obesity epidemic. Such efforts rely on the knowledge of key community members and their engagement with the drivers of obesity in their community. This paper presents the protocol for the measurement and evaluation of knowledge and engagement among community leaders within a whole-of-community systems intervention across 10 large intervention communities in Australia. Methods We will investigate the role of stakeholder knowledge and engagement in the implementation and effectiveness of the stepped wedge cluster randomised trial in ten communities in Victoria, Australia. Data will be collected using the Stakeholder-driven Community Diffusion Survey (SDCD) to measure levels of knowledge and engagement prior to commencement (2019), across the three separate levels of governance within the intervention at five time points. Primary outcomes will be baseline overall knowledge and engagement scores across the three levels of governance and change in overall knowledge and engagement over time. Discussion We hypothesise there will be heterogeneity between intervention sites on levels of knowledge and engagement and that these differences will be associated with variability in implementation success. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001986268. Registered on 11 December 2018
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Whelan
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Claudia Strugnell
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Steven Allender
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ariella R Korn
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, USA
| | - Andrew D Brown
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | | | - Josh Hayward
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Vicki Brown
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Colin Bell
- Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Marj Moodie
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Anna Peeters
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Melanie Nichols
- Institute for Health Transformation, Global Obesity Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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