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Askwith Z, Grignon J, Ismail M, Martin G, McEachern LW, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. Environmental influences on E-cigarette use among young people: A systematic review. Health Place 2024; 87:103212. [PMID: 38493658 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
E-cigarettes are a popular mode of delivery for nicotine, tobacco and cannabis. The prevalence of vaping among youth is increasing and this review aims to identify features of the neighbourhood environment, e.g., retailers, advertisements, and policies, that are associated with youth vaping. We included 48 studies. Of these, approximately 40% and 60% reported that presence of e-cigarette retailers, and advertisements, was associated with statistically higher odds of e-cigarette use in youth, respectively. Approximately 30% of studies reported that policies affecting e-cigarette availability were associated with statistically lower odds of vaping. Identifying these influential features of the neighbourhood environment will help formulate appropriate policies to reduce e-cigarette use among youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Askwith
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Canada
| | - Josh Grignon
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Canada
| | - Mariam Ismail
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Canada
| | - Gina Martin
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Canada; Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University, Canada
| | - Louise W McEachern
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Western University, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Western University, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Schaafsma HN, Jantzi HA, Seabrook JA, McEachern LW, Burke SM, Irwin JD, Gilliland JA. The impact of smartphone app-based interventions on adolescents' dietary intake: a systematic review and evaluation of equity factor reporting in intervention studies. Nutr Rev 2024; 82:467-486. [PMID: 37330675 PMCID: PMC10925905 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Adolescence is a critical stage for improving nutrition. The popularity of smartphones makes them an ideal platform for administering interventions to adolescents. A systematic review has yet to assess the impact of smartphone app-based interventions exclusively on adolescents' dietary intake. Furthermore, despite the impact of equity factors on dietary intake and the claim for mobile health of increased accessibility, there is minimal research on the reporting of equity factors in the evaluation of smartphone app-based nutrition-intervention research. OBJECTIVES This systematic review examines the effectiveness of smartphone app-based interventions on adolescents' dietary intake and the frequency with which equity factors and statistical analyses specific to equity factors are reported in these intervention studies. DATA SOURCES Databases (ie, Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ERIC, and Cochrane Central Register for Randomized Control Trials) were searched for studies published from January 2008 to October 2022. Smartphone app-based intervention studies that were nutrition focused, evaluated at least 1 dietary intake variable, and included participants with a mean age between 10 and 19 years were included. All geographic locations were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS Study characteristics, intervention results, and reported equity factors were extracted. Because of the heterogeneity of dietary outcomes, findings were reported as a narrative synthesis. CONCLUSION In total, 3087 studies were retrieved, 14 of which met the inclusion criteria. Eleven studies reported a statistically significant improvement in at least 1 dietary outcome because of the intervention. Reporting of at least 1 equity factor across articles' Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion sections was minimal (n = 5), and statistical analyses specific to equity factors were rare, occurring in only 4 of the 14 included studies. Future interventions should include a measurement of intervention adherence and report the impact of equity factors on the effectiveness and applicability of interventions for equity-deserving groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly N Schaafsma
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather A Jantzi
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louise W McEachern
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shauna M Burke
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer D Irwin
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Caruso OT, McEachern LW, Minaker LM, Gilliland JA. The Influence of the School Neighborhood Food Retail Environment on Unhealthy Food Purchasing Behaviors Among Adolescents: A Systematic Review. J Nutr Educ Behav 2024; 56:145-161. [PMID: 38284954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2023.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents are often exposed to food retailers selling unhealthy food items during their lunch breaks and school commutes. This systematic review examines the influence of school neighborhood food retail environments on adolescent food purchasing. METHODS A systematic search of 6 databases. Observational studies published from January 2012 to December 2022 that measured food availability, accessibility, or exposure, measured food purchasing, and focused on adolescents (aged 10-19 years) were eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Twelve studies with 97 findings were included. Thirty-one findings indicated that a school neighborhood with a high density of unhealthy food retail, a school with unhealthy food retail nearby, or exposure to unhealthy food retail on the journey to/from school was associated with higher prevalence and frequency of unhealthy food purchases. DISCUSSION Adolescents' food purchasing behaviors may be meaningfully affected by their school neighborhood food retail environment; however, the included studies have many methodological shortcomings. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH AND PRACTICE Results identify the need for new studies that measure food purchasing, use comprehensive definitions of food retail environments, and adopt more rigorous methods to approximate exposure to food retail. More robust evidence would strengthen the rationale for policy or program interventions and potentially indicate specific targets for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T Caruso
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louise W McEachern
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leia M Minaker
- School of Planning, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Ismail MR, Gilliland JA, Matthews JI, Beverley J, Battram DS. Children's Perceptions of the Ontario Student Nutrition Program (OSNP) in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. CAN J DIET PRACT RES 2023; 84:171-175. [PMID: 36892257 DOI: 10.3148/cjdpr-2022-042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to explore children's lived experiences with the Ontario Student Nutrition Program (OSNP), a free, school-based snack program implemented in elementary schools in Southwestern, Ontario, Canada, to gain insights into future school food programs (SFP).Methods: Focus group discussions (n=17) were conducted with 105 children in Grades 5 to 8 in seven elementary schools. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded for themes using inductive content analysis.Results: Overall, children appreciated the OSNP and felt that it filled a need in students. Children also reported a willingness to try novel food items. For future SFPs, participants recommended that input be sought from children to ensure food preferences were considered. Children also discussed wanting more appealing food offerings that may include some choice. Finally, children also mentioned wanting a fair and equitable distribution of food in classrooms.Conclusions: Children appreciated the OSNP and reported benefits to themselves and their peers. They also provided some valuable recommendations for future SFPs. If a nationally funded SFP is to be considered in Canada, children expressed the need to make the program equitable, while still allowing schools the flexibility to meet their unique needs and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam R Ismail
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Department of Geography & Environment, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada; School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, ON, Canada
| | - June I Matthews
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Beverley
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle S Battram
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada; Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Caruso OT, Schaafsma HN, McEachern LW, Gilliland JA. The campus food environment and postsecondary student diet: a systematic review. J Am Coll Health 2023:1-25. [PMID: 37437204 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2227725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Examine the impact of the campus food environment on postsecondary students' dietary behaviors (e.g., dietary intake) and food purchasing. Participants: Students currently attending a postsecondary institution, all ages and geographic locations included. Methods: A systematic search from January 2000-October 2022 was conducted in six databases using postsecondary education, food environment, and diet related keywords. Results: In total, 25 quantitative and 10 qualitative studies were extracted. All quantitative studies that conducted statistical analyses (n = 15) reported a statistically significant relationship between the campus food environment and dietary intake, including both positive and negative effects. All qualitative studies (n = 10) discussed students' experience of the campus food environment influencing their diet. Conclusions: This review found moderate evidence that the campus food environment has an impact on postsecondary students' dietary behaviors. A campus environment that has healthy foods accessible, affordable, and acceptable for postsecondary students may have a beneficial impact on students' dietary intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T Caruso
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Holly N Schaafsma
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louise W McEachern
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Objective: To determine the prevalence of university students who have ever engaged in self-harm and to examine its correlates. Frequency of thinking about self-harm was explored as a secondary outcome. Participants: Students at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada. Methods: This cross-sectional study was completed via an online questionnaire. Logistic regressions assessed the influence of sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with lifetime self-harm and thoughts about self-harm. Results: The sample consisted of 2626 university students. Almost 25% engaged in self-harm in their lifetime and close to 33% have thought about harming themselves. A non-straight sexual orientation, marijuana use, prescription drugs not prescribed, and mental health problems increased the risk of both outcomes. Females were over two times more likely to engage in self-harm than males. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that is needed for developing effective interventions to reduce the risk of self-harm by targeting university students who are most at-risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie Griffin
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jasna Twynstra
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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McEachern LW, Ismail MR, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. Fruit and Vegetable Intake Is Associated with Food Knowledge among Children Aged 9–14 Years in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. Children 2022; 9:children9101456. [PMID: 36291393 PMCID: PMC9600281 DOI: 10.3390/children9101456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Interventions to improve dietary quality and intake of fruits and vegetables (FV) among Canadian children have had modest success, and it has been suggested that food knowledge could be key to improvement. Programs have been criticized for insufficiently connecting food knowledge with food skills and decision making about dietary intake. The objective of this study was to investigate factors associated with FV consumption by elementary school children, aged 9–14 years, in Ontario, Canada, including food knowledge, socioeconomic status, sociodemographic characteristics, and the food environment. In 2017–2019, a cross-sectional survey was administered to 2443 students at 60 elementary schools across Southwestern Ontario (SWO), Canada. A parent survey was used to validate self-reported sociodemographic variables. The mean intake of FV reported by these participants was 2.6 (SD 1.1) and 2.4 (SD 1.2) servings/day, respectively. A FV intake below WHO guidelines was reported by 40.7% of respondents. Knowledge score, child age, and parent employment status significantly predicted higher reported intake of FV. This study shows that FV intake among this population group is low, and increased intake is associated with higher food knowledge. To encourage healthy eating, school-based food and nutrition programs that incorporate multiple components and emphasize food literacy are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise W. McEachern
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Mariam R. Ismail
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Jamie A. Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Wiley ER, Stranges S, Gilliland JA, Anderson KK, Seabrook JA. Residential greenness and substance use among youth and young adults: Associations with alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use. Environ Res 2022; 212:113124. [PMID: 35339465 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research has identified positive associations between green space and physical and mental health outcomes. Substance use outcomes, however, have received considerably less attention. This study investigates the association between residential greenness and substance use through an analysis of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use among youth and young adults. METHODS This study utilized three waves (2016-2018) of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), as well as residential greenness data from the Canadian Urban Environmental Health Consortium (CANUE). Multinomial logistic regression was used to explore variation in the pattern of substance use between greenness quartiles. The sample included 14,070 youth and young adults (15-25 years). RESULTS Residential greenness was not associated with alcohol use in general but was associated with lower odds of frequent binge drinking. Residential greenness was also associated with lower odds of tobacco use and greater odds of marijuana use. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that residential greenness is associated with patterns of substance use. The strength and direction of association, however, is highly contingent upon the substance under investigation. Living in greener neighborhoods may confer certain benefits to substance use and abuse among youth and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan R Wiley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Saverio Stranges
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Population Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly K Anderson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, Ontario, Canada.
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9
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Everitt H, van der Werf P, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. The Proof Is in the Pudding: Using a Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Long-Term Effectiveness of a Household Food Waste Reduction Intervention During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Circ Econ Sustain 2022; 3:1-18. [PMID: 35966037 PMCID: PMC9361971 DOI: 10.1007/s43615-022-00193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
To halve per capita global food waste by 2030, policies and programs that effectively reduce household food waste generation are needed. Building upon a previous randomized controlled trial, this study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of the "Reduce Food Waste, Save Money" household food waste reduction intervention by comparing direct measurements of household food waste generated by treatment (n = 47) and control households (n = 52) over three time periods. The results indicate that there has been a long-term, sustained 30% reduction of avoidable food waste sent to landfill by treatment households following the implementation of this intervention. Additionally, this study assessed the impact of pandemic circumstances on the quantity and composition of household food waste by comparing direct measurements of food waste generated by the same households before (October 2017) and during (June 2020) the COVID-19 pandemic. During the first wave of the pandemic in Ontario, Canada, study households (n = 99) sent 2.98 kg of food waste to landfill per week, of which 54% was classified as avoidable food waste, and the remaining 46% as unavoidable food waste. During the pandemic, the generation of unavoidable food waste significantly increased by 65% (p < 0.01). There were also significant changes to the composition of wasted food, including a 78% increase in avoidable fruit and vegetables (p < 0.01), a 228% increase in avoidable other food (p < 0.01), and an 84% increase in unavoidable other food (p = 0.02).
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley Everitt
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Social Sciences Centre 2333, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7 Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Paul van der Werf
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Social Sciences Centre 2333, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7 Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Jamie A. Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Social Sciences Centre 2333, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7 Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Social Sciences Centre 2333, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7 Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
- School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
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10
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Everitt H, van der Werf P, Seabrook JA, Wray A, Gilliland JA. The quantity and composition of household food waste during the COVID-19 pandemic: A direct measurement study in Canada. Socioecon Plann Sci 2022; 82:101110. [PMID: 35721381 PMCID: PMC9192138 DOI: 10.1016/j.seps.2021.101110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic may have amplified the environmental, social, and economic implications of household food waste. A better understanding of household food wasting during the pandemic is needed to improve the management of waste and develop best practices for municipal waste management programs under crisis circumstances. A waste composition study was undertaken with 100 single-family households across the city of London, Ontario, Canada to determine the quantity and composition of household food waste disposed in June 2020, during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examines how household demographic, socioeconomic, and neighbourhood food environment characteristics influence household food wasting. On average, each household sent 2.81 kg of food waste to landfill per week, of which 52% was classified as avoidable food waste and 48% as unavoidable food waste. The quantity and composition of household food waste was found to be strongly influenced by the number of people and children in a household, and somewhat influenced by socioeconomic factors and neighbourhood food environment characteristics, including the availability, density, and proximity of retail food outlets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley Everitt
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Paul van der Werf
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander Wray
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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Martin G, Reilly K, Everitt H, Gilliland JA. Review: The impact of climate change awareness on children's mental well-being and negative emotions - a scoping review. Child Adolesc Ment Health 2022; 27:59-72. [PMID: 34873823 DOI: 10.1111/camh.12525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change is a threat to children's physical health, but there are also implications for mental well-being. Additionally, children may experience negative emotional responses stemming from an overarching awareness of the imminent threats to the planet due to climate change. METHOD Using a scoping review, we examined the impact of climate change awareness on children's mental well-being and negative emotions. Our aim was to identify and describe the existing literature and highlight priorities for future research. Three specific objectives guided the review: (1) to identify and provide an overview of research regarding the impact of climate change awareness on children's mental well-being and negative emotions; (2) to summarize and clarify the terminology related to climate change awareness and children's mental well-being and negative emotions; and (3) to make recommendations for areas of future research. RESULTS Thirty-three articles were included in a narrative synthesis. Many articles were reviews or editorials/commentaries. Of the empirical research, most were from Europe, North America, and Australia. The articles emphasized a large range of negative emotions that children felt about climate change, with anxiety and worry being the most researched and discussed. CONCLUSIONS The research on the impact of awareness of climate change on children's mental well-being and negative emotions is in its early phases. Efforts are needed to advance conceptual clarity and operationalize concepts. Additionally, there is a need for research into the impact of climate change awareness on children's mental well-being and negative emotions among a greater diversity of people and places. Existing studies provide an encouraging basis from which to develop future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Martin
- Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University, Athabasca, AB, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kristen Reilly
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,Fowler Kennedy Sports Medicine Clinic, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Haley Everitt
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
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12
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Ismail MR, Gilliland JA, Matthews JI, Battram DS. Process evaluation of the Centrally Procured School Food Program (CPSFP) in Ontario, Canada: school-level perspectives. Health Educ Res 2022; 36:554-567. [PMID: 34191009 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyab023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the implementation of the Centrally Procured School Food Program (CPSFP)-a free, universal, volunteer-led snack program for elementary school children. To assess participants' perceptions and experiences with the CPSFP, interviews were conducted in school-level participants (n = 33) using a semi-structured interview guide. Fifteen on-site visits also were conducted at each school to observe implementation practices. Quantitative data were obtained through a general information form where participants provided school characteristics and weekly logbooks where they described program operations and food quality. Most participants expressed positive perceptions of the CPSFP, identifying it as a valuable program for their students. Successful program implementation was associated with an appreciation for the CPSFP and the participation of the school community. Challenges to program implementation included concerns with the volume and types of food provided, issues with classroom food delivery and distribution and communication challenges. Suggestions for improvement included building capacities and enhancing student engagement in the program. Participants provided an in-depth assessment of the implementation of the CPSFP. The lessons learned and suggestions provided may help not only enhance the reach, feasibility and fidelity of the CPSFP, but inform the best practices for similar programs.
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13
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Seabrook JA, Twynstra J, Gilliland JA. Correlates of Lifetime and Past Month Vape Use in a Sample of Canadian University Students. Subst Abuse 2021; 15:11782218211052059. [PMID: 34720584 PMCID: PMC8549468 DOI: 10.1177/11782218211052059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction This study examines correlates of lifetime (ie, ever vaped) and past month vape use among students aged 17 to 19 years, 20 to 25 years, and 26+ years from Western University in London, Ontario. The secondary objective is to assess lifetime and past month vape use among students not of legal age to purchase vaping products in Ontario (ie, those 17 to 18 years only). Methods Using Qualtrics, a cross-sectional survey was sent via email to all students at Western University (N = 38 442), assessing their current and past risk-taking behaviors, mental health, sociodemographic characteristics, as well as questions pertaining to their family structure and socioeconomic background during childhood. Students were asked if they had ever vaped in their lifetime and about past month vape use. Logistic regression models were used to assess correlates of lifetime and past month vape use. Results The sample consisted of 2626 university students. Compared to those ages 26+ years, teenage university students were 10 times more likely to have vaped in the past month and males were twice as likely as females to have vaped. Alcohol use doubled the odds of vaping in the past month, whereas cigarette, cannabis, or cocaine use approximately tripled the odds. Students who reported many sexual partners were far more likely to have vaped in the past month. Conclusion Vape use is more common among teenage university students, males, those who drink alcohol, smoke, use cannabis or cocaine, and who report many sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie A Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jasna Twynstra
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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14
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Ferguson KN, Coen SE, Tobin D, Martin G, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. The mental well-being and coping strategies of Canadian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative, cross-sectional study. CMAJ Open 2021; 9:E1013-E1020. [PMID: 34785531 PMCID: PMC8598240 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20210042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Qualitative research is lacking on the mental well-being of adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to explore the feelings and emotions adolescents experienced during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and the coping strategies they identified and employed to manage those emotions. METHODS Participants living in Canada aged 13-19 years were recruited through social media platforms and youth-serving organizations. Qualitative data were gathered from 2 open-ended questions included in a youth-informed cross-sectional online survey: "What feelings and emotions have you experienced around the pandemic?" and "What coping strategies have you used during the pandemic?" We collected data from June 2020 to September 2020. A summative content analysis was undertaken to analyze survey responses inductively. RESULTS A total of 1164 open-ended responses from Canadian adolescents (n = 851; mean age 15.6, standard deviation 1.7, yr) were analyzed. We identified 3 major themes within the category of feelings and emotions associated with the pandemic: sociospatial and temporal disconnections, emotional toll of the pandemic and positives amid the pandemic. Within the category of coping strategies used during the pandemic, 2 major themes were identified: connecting online and outdoors, and leisure and health-promoting activities. INTERPRETATION Although the emotional toll of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is evident, participants in our study adopted various positive coping strategies to mitigate their distress, including physical activity, safe peer interactions and hobbies. The results have important implications for public health policy and practice during pandemic times, emphasizing the importance of accessible mental health resources for those experiencing psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra Nelson Ferguson
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory (Ferguson, Coen, Tobin, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), and Department of Geography and Environment (Ferguson, Tobin, Gilliland), Western University; Children's Health Research Institute (Ferguson, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ont.; School of Geography (Coen), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Health Disciplines (Martin), Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ont
| | - Stephanie E Coen
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory (Ferguson, Coen, Tobin, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), and Department of Geography and Environment (Ferguson, Tobin, Gilliland), Western University; Children's Health Research Institute (Ferguson, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ont.; School of Geography (Coen), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Health Disciplines (Martin), Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ont
| | - Danielle Tobin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory (Ferguson, Coen, Tobin, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), and Department of Geography and Environment (Ferguson, Tobin, Gilliland), Western University; Children's Health Research Institute (Ferguson, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ont.; School of Geography (Coen), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Health Disciplines (Martin), Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ont
| | - Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory (Ferguson, Coen, Tobin, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), and Department of Geography and Environment (Ferguson, Tobin, Gilliland), Western University; Children's Health Research Institute (Ferguson, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ont.; School of Geography (Coen), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Health Disciplines (Martin), Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ont
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory (Ferguson, Coen, Tobin, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), and Department of Geography and Environment (Ferguson, Tobin, Gilliland), Western University; Children's Health Research Institute (Ferguson, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ont.; School of Geography (Coen), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Health Disciplines (Martin), Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ont
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory (Ferguson, Coen, Tobin, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), and Department of Geography and Environment (Ferguson, Tobin, Gilliland), Western University; Children's Health Research Institute (Ferguson, Martin, Seabrook, Gilliland), Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ont.; School of Geography (Coen), University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Health Disciplines (Martin), Athabasca University, Athabasca, Alta.; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences (Seabrook), Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ont.
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15
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Ismail MR, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. Outcome evaluation of fruits and vegetables distribution interventions in schools: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Public Health Nutr 2021; 24:4693-4705. [PMID: 33866997 PMCID: PMC10195380 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021001683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fruits and vegetables (FV) distribution interventions have been implemented as a public health strategy to increase children's intake of FV at school settings. The purpose of this review was to examine whether snack-based FV distribution interventions can improve school-aged children's consumption of FV. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of articles published in English, in a peer-reviewed journals, were identified by searching six databases up to August 2020. Standardised mean differences (SMD) and 95 % CI were calculated using a random effects model. Heterogeneity was quantified using I2 statistics. SETTING Population-based studies of interventions where the main focus was the effectiveness of distributed FV as snacks to schoolchildren in North America, Europe and Pacific were included. RESULTS Forty-seven studies, reporting on fifteen different interventions, were identified; ten studies were included in the meta-analysis. All interventions were effective in increasing children's consumption of FV, with only one intervention demonstrating a null effect. Pooled results under all classifications showed effectiveness in improving children's consumption of FV, particularly for multi-component interventions at post-intervention (SMD 0·20, 95 % CI 0·13, 0·27) and free distribution interventions at follow-up (SMD 0·19, 95 % CI 0·12, 0·27). CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that FV distribution interventions provide a promising avenue by which children's consumption can be improved. Nonetheless, our results are based on a limited number of studies, and further studies should be performed to confirm these results. More consistent measurement protocols in terms of rigorous study methodologies, intervention duration and follow-up evaluation are needed to improve comparability across studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam R Ismail
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College; Department of Pediatrics, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University; Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography & Environment, School of Health Studies, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University; Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ONN6A 3K7, Canada
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16
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Ladele O, Baxter J, van der Werf P, Gilliland JA. Familiarity breeds acceptance: Predictors of residents' support for curbside food waste collection in a city with green bin and a city without. Waste Manag 2021; 131:258-267. [PMID: 34175750 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Food waste remains a high priority greenhouse gas (GHG) emission problem and household curbside collection - green bin1 - with mass treatment is often adopted as a viable solution for GHG reduction. The aim of this study is to explore attitudinal and situational predictors of support for residential curbside green bin programs. Using responses to 517 household surveys from the mid-sized Canadian cities of London, Ontario (proposed green bin program) and Kitchener-Waterloo (KW), Ontario (operating green bin program for 10+ years) comparison of means t-tests, correlations and linear regression are used to test five hypotheses derived from the food waste and waste diversion literatures that predict green bin support: situational factors, current food wasting, theory of planned behaviour attitudes, concern that green bin encourages food wasting, and concern that food waste ends up in the garbage regardless of green bin. There is some support for all five hypotheses. Residents in Kitchener-Waterloo were significantly more supportive (83%) than those in London (65%). While residents in both communities are supportive because of the perceived convenience and environmental benefits of the green bin, the number of regression model predictors is greater in London (16 compared to 9 for Kitchener-Waterloo). The findings overall suggest sustained municipal education at the implementation stage may lead to positive resident habituation to green bin and thus, durable public buy-in.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatomilola Ladele
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie Baxter
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Paul van der Werf
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Martin G, Graat M, Medeiros A, Clark AF, Button BLG, Ferguson KN, Gilliland JA. Perceived neighbourhood safety moderates the relationship between active school travel and health-related quality of life. Health Place 2021; 70:102623. [PMID: 34265633 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2021.102623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a dearth of studies examining associations between active school travel and children's health-related quality of life. Additionally, studies have not examined how perceived neighbourhood characteristics may moderate these associations. This study aims to examine the relationship between regular active school travel, children's physical and psychosocial health-related quality of life, and the potential moderating effects of their perceived neighbourhood safety (interpersonal and traffic). This cross-sectional study used data from Ontario schoolchildren (aged 8-14) as part of the Spatial Temporal Environment and Activity Monitoring (STEAM) Project. Results showed no significant direct relationship between regular active school travel and children's physical or psychosocial functioning; but the relationships were moderated by perceived neighbourhood safety. Regular active school travelers with high levels of perceived neighbourhood interpersonal safety, had higher physical and psychosocial functioning than regular active school travelers with low levels of perceived neighbourhood interpersonal safety. Additionally, at higher levels of perceived neighbourhood traffic safety, regular active school travelers had higher psychosocial functioning than regular active school travelers with lower perceived neighbourhood traffic safety. Interventions promoting active school travel should consider the environments through which children will be traveling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University, Athabasca, AB T9S 3A3, Canada
| | - Megan Graat
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Alina Medeiros
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Brenton L G Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Medical Education Research Lab in the North, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Kendra Nelson Ferguson
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada; School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
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18
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Brown R, Seabrook JA, Stranges S, Clark AF, Haines J, O’Connor C, Doherty S, Gilliland JA. Examining the Correlates of Adolescent Food and Nutrition Knowledge. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13062044. [PMID: 34203666 PMCID: PMC8232342 DOI: 10.3390/nu13062044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Food literacy is a set of skills and knowledge that are integral to diet. It is common among teenagers to not have basic food literacy skills needed to consume a healthy diet. This study examined: (1) the current state of food and nutrition knowledge among adolescents 13–19 years of age in the census metropolitan area of London, ON, Canada; and (2) correlates of food knowledge and nutrition knowledge among adolescents. Data for this study were drawn from baseline youth and parent survey data collected from a larger population health intervention study. Statistical analysis of the survey data indicates that higher parental education and higher median neighbourhood family income, the use of mobile health applications, liking to cook, as well as confidence in reading and understanding food labels were all consistently associated with increased food and nutrition knowledge. Findings may help guide future research towards optimal methods for delivering food literacy interventions to effectively educate teenagers. Results of this study may help guide policy makers, researchers, and public health professionals in developing appropriate food and nutrition programs and curriculums to combat the decline in food literacy skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (R.B.); (J.A.S.); (S.S.)
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
| | - Jamie A. Seabrook
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (R.B.); (J.A.S.); (S.S.)
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 4V3, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Saverio Stranges
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (R.B.); (J.A.S.); (S.S.)
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
- Department of Family Medicine, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medicine, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Population Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 4V3, Canada
- Department of Geography & Environment, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Jess Haines
- Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Colleen O’Connor
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada
| | - Sean Doherty
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
- Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5, Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (R.B.); (J.A.S.); (S.S.)
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (C.O.); (S.D.)
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 4V3, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
- Department of Geography & Environment, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- School of Health Studies, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-661-2111 (ext. 81239); Fax: +1-519-661-3750
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19
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Martin G, Reilly KC, Gilliland JA. Impact of awareness and concerns of climate change on children's mental health: a scoping review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 18:516-522. [PMID: 32197010 DOI: 10.11124/jbisrir-d-19-00253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this scoping review is to identify and describe the existing literature on the impact of the overarching awareness and concerns of climate change on children's mental health and well-being. INTRODUCTION Children are widely acknowledged as being disproportionately at risk to the effects of climate change, yet research overlooks the impact that climate change has on their mental health. Children's overarching awareness of climate change, and its global effects, may influence their mental health and well-being. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review will include all research that addresses school-aged children's (aged 3-19) mental-health issues stemming from an awareness of climate change. It will not include research that examines direct impacts of climate change on children's mental health, such as trauma from a specific climate-related event. METHODS Searches will be conducted across eight research databases (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, Embase, GreenFILE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus) and three unpublished/gray literature databases (ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, GreyLit.org, and OpenGrey). Data will be extracted for author(s), year of publication, country of origin, purpose, population, methodology, concepts of interest, outcomes, and key findings relating to the scoping review objectives. Findings will be presented as a narrative summary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Martin
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Kristen C Reilly
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Canada.,Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Canada.,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Canada
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Martin G, Bowman DD, Graat M, Clark AF, Wray AJ, Askwith Z, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. Examining how changes in provincial policy on vape marketing impacted the distribution of vaping advertisements near secondary schools in London, Ontario. Can J Public Health 2021; 112:440-448. [PMID: 33410122 PMCID: PMC8076358 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-020-00453-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES On January 1, 2020, the Government of Ontario passed a regulation banning vaping advertisements by retailers, apart from specialty shops. A motivation for this ban was to limit youth exposure to vaping advertisements. The primary goal of this research was to evaluate the impact of this ban on the number and density of vaping advertisements surrounding secondary schools. Additionally, we examined whether the number of vaping advertisements varied by school socio-demographic characteristics. METHODS This study used a pre-post design. Audits were conducted December 2019 (pre-ban) and again January to February 2020 (post-ban), to identify vaping advertisements within 800 m surrounding secondary schools (n = 18) in London, Ontario. RESULTS Prior to the ban, there were 266 vaping advertisements within 800 m of secondary schools. After the ban, this was reduced to 58, a 78.2% reduction. The mean number of vaping advertisements surrounding schools significantly decreased from 18.1 before the ban to 3.6 after the ban (p < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was found, prior to the ban, between the number of vaping advertisements surrounding schools and school-level residential instability (r = 0.42, p = 0.02). After the ban, no significant correlations were found between the number of vaping advertisements and school socio-demographic characteristics. CONCLUSION The provincial ban of vaping advertisements in select retail settings significantly reduced the number of vaping advertisements in the areas surrounding secondary schools in London, Ontario. The ban also reduced socio-demographic inequities in youths' potential exposure to marketing of vaping products. Continued monitoring of the geographic accessibility and promotion of vaping products is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Drew D Bowman
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Megan Graat
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Alexander J Wray
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Zoe Askwith
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.,School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, London, ON, N6G 1H2, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6A 4V2, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Room 2432, SSC, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada. .,Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada. .,Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C2, Canada. .,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, N6A 4V2, Canada. .,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada. .,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada. .,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada.
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21
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Horne JR, Gilliland JA, Vohl MC, Madill J. Exploring Attitudes, Subjective Norms and Perceived Behavioural Control in a Genetic-Based and a Population-Based Weight Management Intervention: A One-Year Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2020; 12:E3768. [PMID: 33302460 PMCID: PMC7764748 DOI: 10.3390/nu12123768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies demonstrate that the provision of personalized lifestyle advice, based on genetics, can help motivate individuals to engage in greater nutrition and physical activity changes compared to the provision of population-based advice. The theoretical mechanism behind this phenomenon is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of providing genetically tailored and population-based lifestyle advice on key constructs of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). MATERIALS AND METHODS A pragmatic, cluster randomized controlled trial (n = 140) took place at the East Elgin Family Health Team, in Aylmer, Ontario, Canada. Participants were primarily Caucasian females enrolled in a weight management program (BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2). Weight management program groups were randomized (1:1) to receive a population-based lifestyle intervention for weight management (Group Lifestyle Balance™ (GLB)) or a lifestyle genomics (LGx)-based lifestyle intervention for weight management (GLB+LGx). Attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control were measured at baseline, immediately after receiving a report of population-based or genetic-based recommendations and after 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Linear mixed models were conducted, controlling for measures of actual behavioural control. All analyses were intention-to-treat by originally assigned groups. RESULTS Significant changes (p < 0.05) in attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control tended to be short-term in the GLB group and long-term for the GLB+LGx group. Short-term and long-term between-group differences in measures of subjective norms were discovered, favouring the GLB+LGx group. CONCLUSIONS The TPB can help provide a theoretical explanation for studies demonstrating enhanced behaviour change with genetic-based lifestyle interventions. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03015012.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine R. Horne
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- The East Elgin Family Health Team, Aylmer, ON N5H 1K9, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS) and Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Laval University, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
| | - Marie-Claude Vohl
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS) and Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Laval University, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
| | - Janet Madill
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
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22
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Ismail MR, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. Process evaluation of fruit and vegetables distribution interventions in school-based settings: A systematic review. Prev Med Rep 2020; 21:101281. [PMID: 33364152 PMCID: PMC7753971 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Assesses how school fruit & vegetable distribution interventions are implemented. Child fruit & vegetable intake is influenced by how intervention is implemented. Recommendations for implementing fruit & vegetable interventions in schools. Studies should also consider sustainability, cost-effectiveness and implementation.
Despite the importance of process evaluation in program evaluations, research has focused primarily on the effectiveness of fruit and vegetables (FVs) distribution interventions on children’s consumption, with little attention given to how these interventions achieve their outcomes. Five bibliographic databases (Embase, PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection) were searched in June 2019 for studies of interventions where the main focus was the implementation of distributed FVs to school-aged children as a snack. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was used to appraise the risk of bias within included studies. Data were extracted based on study characteristics and findings. Results identified 24 studies reporting on 11 interventions and 1 policy. The findings of this systematic review indicate that the majority of the studies included limited references to implementation research. Recurring limitations include an absence of an evaluation theoretical framework and the data collection methods used. Also, several factors were identified as informing the success of snack-based FVs distribution programs, including participation of the school community, school characteristics, background knowledge, and parental engagement. Lack of timely FVs delivery, limited funding, inadequate awareness about the program, insufficient teachers’ time, and food waste were identified as challenges to successful programming. Findings indicate that distributing FVs to school-aged children as a snack can increase their consumption, but only with proper implementation. Further evaluative research is required to better inform future implementation of snack-based FV distribution interventions in school settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam R Ismail
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, Department of Paediatrics, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography, School of Health Studies, Department of Paediatrics, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Button BLG, Clark AF, Martin G, Graat M, Gilliland JA. Measuring Temporal Differences in Rural Canadian Children's Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17238734. [PMID: 33255449 PMCID: PMC7727807 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to measure the factors that influence children’s moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during school curriculum time, recess time, and outside school time in a rural area. During the Fall and Winter of 2016, 34 boys and 55 girls aged 8–14 years from rural communities in rural Northwestern Ontario participated in the Spatial Temporal Environment and Activity Monitoring project. The children’s MVPA was measured using an accelerometer, and child-level demographic, behavioral, and environmental data were gathered from surveys, passively logging global positioning units, and municipal datasets. Data on daily temperature and precipitation were gathered from the closest Environment Canada weather station. A mixed model was used to assess the relationship between child- and day-level factors and children’s MVPA. On average, children were getting 12.9 min of MVPA during recess, 17.7 min during curriculum time, and 29.0 min of MVPA outside school time. During all three time points, boys were more active than girls. During curriculum time, children in lower grades were more active, and the weather had differing impacts depending on the time of day. The findings of this study illustrate the differences in MVPA and the factors that influence MVPA by time of day. Examining different time segments provides valuable information for understanding children’s MVPA patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L. G. Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-661-2111 (ext. 81239); Fax: +1-519-661-3750
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Megan Graat
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
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24
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Button BLG, Martin G, Clark AF, Graat M, Gilliland JA. Examining Factors of Accelerometer-Measured Sedentary Time in a Sample of Rural Canadian Children. Children (Basel) 2020; 7:children7110232. [PMID: 33212897 PMCID: PMC7698431 DOI: 10.3390/children7110232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine potential child-level and day-level factors of accelerometer-measured sedentary time in a sample of rural Canadian children. Children (n = 86) from rural Northwestern Ontario participated in this study. Children’s sedentary times were identified and logged using an accelerometer. Child-level data (socio-demographic, household, and environment) came from surveys of children and their parents and a passively logging global positioning unit. Day-level data on day type (weekday/weekend) and weather (temperature, precipitation) were based on the dates of data collection and meteorological data came from the closest Environment Canada weather station. Cross-classified regression models were used to assess the relationship between child-level and day-level correlates of sedentary time. Boys were less sedentary than girls (b = −30.53 p = 0.01). For each one-year age increase, children’s sedentary time increased (b = 12.79 p < 0.01). This study indicates a difference in sedentary time based on a child’s age and gender. However, family, environmental, and weather characteristics did not influence sedentary time in this sample. Health practitioners who deliver care for northern rural youth can provide targeted health advice regarding sedentary time and consider gender and age to be risk factors for these behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L. G. Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-661-2111; Fax: +1-519-661-3750
| | - Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Megan Graat
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
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25
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Horne JR, Gilliland JA, O'Connor CP, Seabrook JA, Madill J. Change in Weight, BMI, and Body Composition in a Population-Based Intervention Versus Genetic-Based Intervention: The NOW Trial. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2020; 28:1419-1427. [PMID: 32935529 DOI: 10.1002/oby.22880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare changes in body fat percentage (BFP), weight, and BMI between a standard intervention and a nutrigenomics intervention. METHODS The Nutrigenomics, Overweight/Obesity and Weight Management (NOW) trial is a parallel-group, pragmatic, randomized controlled clinical trial incorporated into the Group Lifestyle BalanceTM (GLB) Program. Statistical analyses included two-way ANOVA and split-plot ANOVA. Inclusion criteria consisted of: BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2 , ≥18 years of age, English speaking, willing to undergo genetic testing, having internet access, and not seeing another health care provider for weight-loss advice outside of the study. Pregnancy and lactation were exclusion criteria. GLB groups were randomly assigned 1 to 1 (N = 140) so that participants received either the standard 12-month GLB program or a modified 12-month program (GLB plus nutrigenomics), which included the provision of nutrigenomics information and advice for weight management. The primary outcome was percent change in BFP. Secondary outcomes were change in weight and BMI. RESULTS The GLB plus nutrigenomics group experienced significantly (P < 0.05) greater reductions in percent and absolute BFP at the 3-month follow-up and percent BFP at the 6-month follow-up compared with the standard GLB group. CONCLUSIONS The nutrigenomics intervention used in the NOW trial can optimize change in body composition up to 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine R Horne
- Graduate Program in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- The East Elgin Family Health Team, Aylmer, Ontario, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen P O'Connor
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janet Madill
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Button BLG, Shah TI, Clark AF, Wilk P, Gilliland JA. Examining weather-related factors on physical activity levels of children from rural communities. Can J Public Health 2020; 112:107-114. [PMID: 32661935 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-020-00324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to examine the influence of weather on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and light physical activity (LPA) levels of children aged 8-14 years from rural communities, an understudied Canadian population. METHODS Children (n = 90) from four communities in rural Northwestern Ontario participated in this study between September and December 2016. Children's MVPA and LPA were measured using an Actical accelerometer and demographic data were gathered from surveys of children and their parents. Weather data were collected from the closest weather station. Cross-classified regression models were used to assess the relationship between weather and children's MVPA and LPA. RESULTS Boys accumulated more MVPA than girls (b = 26.38, p < 0.01), children were more active on weekdays as compared with weekends (b = - 16.23, p < 0.01), children were less active on days with precipitation (b = - 22.88, p < 0.01), and higher temperature led to a significant increase in MVPA (b = 1.33, p < 0.01). As children aged, they accumulated less LPA (b = - 9.36, p < 0.01) and children who perceived they had higher levels of physical functioning got more LPA (b = 25.18, p = 0.02). Similar to MVPA, children had higher levels of LPA on weekdays (b = - 37.24, p < 0.01) as compared to weekend days and children accumulated less LPA (b = -50.01, p < 0.01) on days with rain. CONCLUSION The study findings indicate that weather influences rural children's MVPA and LPA. Future research is necessary to incorporate these findings into interventions to increase rural children's overall PA levels and improve their overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L G Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tayyab I Shah
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada. .,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
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27
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Button BLG, Clark AF, Gilliland JA. Understanding factors associated with children achieving recommended amount of MVPA on weekdays and weekend days. Prev Med Rep 2020; 19:101145. [PMID: 32695564 PMCID: PMC7364162 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Low levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) are consistently reported for children from industrialized countries. Perennially inadequate levels of MVPA have been linked to increased chronic disease risks. Very few studies have compared physical activity levels among children from geographically diverse places, and how they differ on weekdays versus weekends. The purpose of this research is to examine the factors that influence whether children achieve 60 min of MVPA on weekdays compared to weekend days. Data were analyzed on children (n = 532) aged 8-14 years from communities in Southern and Northern Ontario, Canada that participated in the study between 2009 and 2016. Children's MVPA was measured using an Actical accelerometer, environmental features measured with a geographic information system, and demographic data came from child/parent surveys. Variables were selected using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The variables were entered into logistic regression models to assess the relationship between children meeting the MVPA guidelines. During the week, boys were more active than girls (OR = 4.652 p < 0.001) and as age increased children were less likely to reach the MVPA guidelines (OR = 0.758 p = 0.013). On weekends boys were still more likely to meet the guidelines (OR = 1.683 p = 0.014) and children living in rural Northern Ontario were more likely to reach the MVPA guidelines compared to all groups in Southern Ontario. The findings indicate that different variables influence whether children meet the MVPA guidelines on weekdays compared to weekends. Comparing weekdays and weekends provides more useful information for creating effective MVPA interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L G Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Wong SPW, Twynstra J, Gilliland JA, Cook JL, Seabrook JA. Risk Factors and Birth Outcomes Associated with Teenage Pregnancy: A Canadian Sample. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2020; 33:153-159. [PMID: 31634579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To examine the extent to which socioeconomic status, mental health, and substance use are associated with teenage pregnancies in Southwestern Ontario (SWO), and whether these pregnancies are at an elevated risk for adverse birth outcomes, after controlling for medical, behavioral, and socioeconomic status factors. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study using perinatal and neonatal databases. SETTING Tertiary care hospital in SWO. PARTICIPANTS Women residing in SWO who gave birth to singleton infants without congenital anomalies between 2009 and 2014. Teenage pregnancies (19 years of age or younger) were compared with pregnancies of women 20-34 years and 35 years or older. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Low birth weight (LBW), very LBW, term LBW, preterm birth, very preterm birth, low and very low Apgar score, and fetal macrosomia. RESULTS Of 25,263 pregnant women, 1080 (4.3%) were 19 years of age or younger. Approximately 18% of teenage mothers lived in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods, compared with 11% of mothers aged 20-34 and 9% of women 35 years of age or older (P < .001). Teenage mothers had higher rates of depression during pregnancy (9.8%) than mothers 20-34 years (5.8%) and those 35 years of age or older (6.8%; P < .001). Young mothers self-reported higher tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol use during pregnancy than adult mothers (P < .001). Teenage pregnancy increased the risk of a low Apgar score (adjusted odds ratio, 1.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-2.02), but was not associated with other birth outcomes after adjusting for covariates. CONCLUSION Teenage pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of socioeconomic disadvantage, mental health problems, and substance use during pregnancy, but is largely unrelated to adverse birth outcomes in SWO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie P W Wong
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jasna Twynstra
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute/Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jocelynn L Cook
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute/Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.
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29
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van der Werf P, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA. Food for thought: Comparing self-reported versus curbside measurements of household food wasting behavior and the predictive capacity of behavioral determinants. Waste Manag 2020; 101:18-27. [PMID: 31586873 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2019.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
A survey, based on an expanded Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), was used to indirectly measure self-reported food wasting and its behavioral determinants. This was complemented with directly and objectively measured food waste in curbside garbage samples. Households (n = 189) reported throwing out avoidable food waste a mean of 5.48 times (SD = 5.58) and 6.63 portions (SD = 6.61) the week prior to completing the survey. These same households threw out a mean of 2,783 g/week of food waste (SD = 2,664) in a curbside garbage sample, with 63.27% of this consisting of avoidable food waste. There were weak to fair correlations between self-reported and curbside food waste samples. The direction and level of significance of all correlations of TPB behavioral determinants with self-reported and curbside food waste samples were similar, although the correlation coefficients were higher for self-reported food wasting. A linear regression (R2 = 0.34, p < 0.001) on self-reported avoidable food waste frequency demonstrated that it was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with perceived behavioral control, personal attitude, number of people per household, gender and employment status. This was contrasted with a linear regression (R2 = 0.19, p < 0.001) on curbside avoidable food waste which was also significantly (p < 0.05) associated with perceived behavioral control and number of people per household, but also housing tenure type (owner-occupancy vs tenancy) and the good provider identity. In general, self-reported results should be used with caution as they may underestimate food waste disposal and consideration should be given to supplement, if not replace, them with direct measurement of food waste disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul van der Werf
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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30
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Wiley ER, Seabrook JA, Gilliland JA, Anderson KK, Stranges S. Green space and substance use and addiction: A new frontier. Addict Behav 2020; 100:106155. [PMID: 31640883 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.106155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evan R Wiley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly K Anderson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Saverio Stranges
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Population Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg.
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31
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Irwin BR, Speechley M, Wilk P, Clark AF, Gilliland JA. Promoting healthy beverage consumption habits among elementary school children: results of the Healthy Kids Community Challenge 'Water Does Wonders' interventions in London, Ontario. Can J Public Health 2019; 111:257-268. [PMID: 31721081 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-019-00262-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTERVENTION This study examines the impact of London's Healthy Kids Community Challenge (HKCC) 'Water Does Wonders' interventions, which combined water infrastructure and education programs. RESEARCH QUESTION How effective were the HKCC interventions at increasing water and decreasing sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption among grade 4-8 children in London, Ontario? METHODS Non-randomized controlled trial. Children's knowledge and beverage intake were measured before and after the interventions were implemented during the 2016-2017 school year. Children at intervention schools (n = 521) received education programs (Growing Chefs or UTRCA [Upper Thames River Conservation Authority]) and water bottle filling stations. Children at control schools (n = 410) received filling stations only. Multivariable linear mixed-model ANCOVAs were used to compare water and SSB consumption and knowledge across intervention groups, accounting for school-level clustering. RESULTS Children who received an education intervention and filling station compared with only a filling station consumed more water (β = 2.18 (95% CI - 1.87, 6.22) for Growing Chefs and β = 2.90 (95% CI - 0.23, 6.03) for UTRCA) and fewer SSBs (β = - 1.17 (95% CI - 3.83, 1.49) for Growing Chefs and β = - 2.56 (95% CI - 5.12, 0.001) for UTRCA) post-intervention, and had higher nutrition knowledge (β = 1.57 (95% CI - 1.68, 4.83) for Growing Chefs and β = 2.02 (95% CI - 0.35, 4.39) for UTRCA). These findings were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS An intervention intended to promote healthy beverage consumption yielded effects in the expected direction; however, they were small and not statistically significant. This is likely because the educational interventions were not fully aligned with the goals of the 'Water Does Wonders' program, preventing them from evoking meaningful changes in dietary behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget R Irwin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Mark Speechley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada. .,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada. .,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada. .,Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada. .,School of Health Studies, Western University, 1151 Richmond St, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada. .,Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada. .,Lawson Health Research Institute, 750 Base Line Rd. E, London, Ontario, N6C 2R5, Canada.
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32
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Bowman DD, Minaker LM, Simpson BJK, Gilliland JA. Development of a Teen-Informed Coding Tool to Measure the Power of Food Advertisements. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019; 16:ijerph16214258. [PMID: 31684019 PMCID: PMC6862172 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16214258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The food-related information environment, comprised of food and beverage advertising within one’s surroundings, is a growing concern for adolescent health given that food marketing disproportionately targets adolescents. Despite strong public interest concerning the effects of food marketing on child health, there is limited evidence focused on outdoor food advertising in relation to teenage diets, food purchasing, and perceptions. Further, limited research has considered both the exposure to and influence of such advertisements. This study used a novel multi-method approach to identify and quantify the features of outdoor food and beverage advertisements that are most effective at drawing teenagers into retail food establishments. An environmental audit of outdoor advertisements and consultations with youth were used to: (1) identify teen-directed food marketing techniques; (2) validate and weigh the power of individual advertising elements; and, (3) develop a teen-informed coding tool to measure the power of food-related advertisements. Results indicate that marketing power is a function of the presence and size of teen-directed advertisement features, and the relative nature of each feature is an important consideration. This study offers a quantitative measurement tool for food environment research and urges policymakers to consider teen-directed marketing when creating healthy communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew D Bowman
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
| | - Leia M Minaker
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
- School of Planning, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
| | - Bonnie J K Simpson
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
- DAN Department of Management and Organizational Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
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Smith C, Clark AF, Wilk P, Tucker P, Gilliland JA. Assessing the effectiveness of a naturally occurring population-level physical activity intervention for children. Public Health 2019; 178:62-71. [PMID: 31622900 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2019.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a recreation access pass on grade 5 children's physical activity (PA) levels. STUDY DESIGN This is a pre-post evaluation of a population-level community-based intervention. METHODS All grade 5 students in (London, Ontario, Canada) were invited to participate in the [ACT-i-Pass] program (G5AP) in May 2014. A total of 643 children completed surveys, that included Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C), at baseline (October 2014) and 6-month follow-up (April 2015). Difference in the means t-test compared PAQ-C scores between baseline and follow-up for the sample and subgroups. Multiple regression analysis tested associations between change in PAQ-C scores and intrapersonal-, interpersonal-, and physical environment-level variables. RESULTS PA increased significantly from baseline to 6-month follow-up. Girls, visible minorities, immigrants, and children with low parental support experienced significant increases in PA. Regression found girls benefitted from the G5AP significantly more than boys, and lower parental support is related to increases in PA. CONCLUSION The findings indicate that collaboratively developed, community-based interventions can significantly increase children's PA levels, particularly among subgroups with traditionally lower PA. The pre-post evaluation of this community-based intervention provides useful evidence for developing policies and programs aimed at making population-level improvements in children's PA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Smith
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario 1151 Richmond St., London, N6A 3K7, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - A F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario 1151 Richmond St., London, N6A 3K7, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - P Wilk
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario 1151 Richmond St., London, N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - P Tucker
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario 1151 Richmond St., London, N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - J A Gilliland
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, N6C 2V5, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, School of Health Studies, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario 1151 Richmond St., London, N6A 3K7, Canada.
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34
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Seabrook JA, Smith A, Clark AF, Gilliland JA. Geospatial analyses of adverse birth outcomes in Southwestern Ontario: Examining the impact of environmental factors. Environ Res 2019; 172:18-26. [PMID: 30769185 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.12.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of research has examined the association between exposure to environmental factors during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes; however, many studies do not control for potential covariates and findings vary considerably. OBJECTIVE To test the relative influence of environmental factors including exposure to air pollution, major roads, highways, industry, parks, greenspaces, and food retailers on low birth weight (LBW) and preterm birth (PTB) in Southwestern Ontario (SWO), Canada, while accounting for medical (e.g., previous preterm birth, gestational diabetes), behavioral (e.g., alcohol, smoking), demographic (e.g., maternal age, body mass index), and neighborhood-level socioeconomic (e.g., household income, education) factors. METHODS This retrospective cohort study consisted of a large sample of pregnant women from SWO who gave birth to singleton newborns between February 2009 and February 2014 at London Health Sciences Centre. Data on maternal postal codes were entered into a Geographic Information System to map the distribution of maternal residences and determine selected characteristics of their neighborhood environments (i.e., socioeconomic, built, natural). These variables were developed based on postal codes where the mothers lived prior to giving birth. Logistic regression was used to assess the relative effects of the physical environment, socioeconomic status, clinical history, and behavioral risk factors on mothers having a LBW or PTB infant. RESULTS Out of 25,263 live births, 5.7% were LBW and 7.5% were PTB. Exposure to sulfur dioxide was a top predictor of both LBW and PTB. For every one-unit increase in sulfur dioxide, the odds of a LBW and PTB were 3.4 (95% CI: 2.2, 5.2) and 2.0 (95% CI: 1.4, 3.0) times higher, after controlling for other variables in the model, respectively (p < 0.001). Previous PTB was also highly associated with both birth outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Health care providers should be informed about the hazards of air pollution to developing fetuses so that recommendations can be made to their pregnant patients about limiting exposure when air quality is poor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie A Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, 1285 Western Road, London, Ontario, Canada, N6G 1H2; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5W9; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6C 2V5; Lawson Health Research Institute, 750 Base Line Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6C 2R5; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7
| | - Alexandra Smith
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, 1285 Western Road, London, Ontario, Canada, N6G 1H2
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6C 2V5; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7; Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C2
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5W9; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6C 2V5; Lawson Health Research Institute, 750 Base Line Road East, London, Ontario, Canada, N6C 2R5; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7; Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C2; School of Health Studies, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7.
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35
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Clark AF, Wilk P, Gilliland JA. Comparing Physical Activity Behavior of Children During School Between Balanced and Traditional School Day Schedules. J Sch Health 2019; 89:129-135. [PMID: 30604444 DOI: 10.1111/josh.12722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some Canadian schools have modified their daily schedules from the traditional school day (TSD) schedule (two 15-minute breaks and one 60-minute break) to a balanced school day (BSD) schedule (two 40-minute breaks). While this change increases daily planning and instructional time, it also changes the amount of time available for moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). METHODS This study uses a case-control design to examine differences in objectively measured MVPA between children in 3 schools using a BSD schedule and 3 schools using a TSD schedule. Study participants (aged 10-12 years) were recruited from schools in Ontario, Canada. RESULTS Regardless of schedule type, girls had lower MVPA than boys, and as both boys and girls got older their MVPA significantly decreased. The findings indicate there was no statistically significant difference in the total minutes of in-school MVPA between children from BSD schools and children from TSD schools. MVPA was significantly higher for older girls attending BSD schools than older girls attending TSD schools, suggesting that implementing a BSD may help curb declining MVPA as girls enter adolescence. CONCLUSION Despite encouraging findings, more rigorous studies (ie, pre-post experiments with control) are needed to better understand how changing schedules impacts children's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London N6C 2V5, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, & Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, School of Health Studies, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, & Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London N6A 3K7, Canada
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36
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Gilliland JA, Shah TI, Clark A, Sibbald S, Seabrook JA. A geospatial approach to understanding inequalities in accessibility to primary care among vulnerable populations. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210113. [PMID: 30615678 PMCID: PMC6322734 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many Canadians experience unequal access to primary care services, despite living in a country with a universal health care system. Health inequalities affect all Canadians but have a much stronger impact on the health of vulnerable populations. Health inequalities are preventable differences in the health status or distribution of health resources as experienced by vulnerable populations. A geospatial approach was applied to examine how closely the distribution of primary care providers (PCPs) in London, Ontario meet the needs of vulnerable populations, including people with low income status, seniors, lone parents, and linguistic minorities. Using enhanced two step floating catchment area (E2SFCA) method, an index of geographic access scores for all PCPs and PCPs speaking French, Arabic, and Spanish were separately developed at the dissemination area (DA) level. To analyze how PCPs are distributed, comparative analyses were performed in association with specific vulnerable groups. Geographical accessibility to all PCPs, and PCPs who speak specific minority languages vary considerably across the city of London. Access scores for French- and Arabic-speaking PCPs are found comparatively high (mean = 2.85 and 1.01 respectively) as compared to Spanish-speaking PCPs (mean = 0.47). Additionally, many areas with high proportions of vulnerable populations experience low accessibility. Despite its exploratory nature, this study offers insight into intra-urban distributions of geographical accessibility to primary care resources for vulnerable groups. These findings can facilitate health researchers and policymakers in the development of recommendations to increase levels of accessibility of specific population groups in underserved areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A. Gilliland
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Tayyab I. Shah
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew Clark
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Shannon Sibbald
- School of Health Studies, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jamie A. Seabrook
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada
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Taylor LG, Clark AF, Wilk P, Button BL, Gilliland JA. Exploring the Effect of Perceptions on Children's Physical Activity in Varying Geographic Contexts: Using a Structural Equation Modelling Approach to Examine a Cross-Sectional Dataset. Children (Basel) 2018; 5:children5120159. [PMID: 30486424 PMCID: PMC6306871 DOI: 10.3390/children5120159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Most Canadian children are not meeting the recommended 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. Research suggests that children’s perceptions of their environment have an influence on their physical activity behaviours, but there is a lack of generalizability among previous work. The purpose of this study was to assess the mediating effect of children’s perceptions of barriers to physical activity on the relationship between their environments and their level of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (measured with accelerometers). Structural equation modelling stratified by gender was used to assess the research objective in a sample of 546 participants aged 8–14 years old from Northwestern and Southwestern Ontario, Canada. In both models stratified by gender, perceptions of barriers did not significantly mediate the relationship between urbanicity and physical activity. Independent of all other factors, there was no significant relationship between urbanicity and physical activity in girls, but there was in boys. These results offer insight into potential processes by which perceptions impact physical activity and provide initial information to further our understanding of the behavioural aspects of physical activity through multiple levels of analysis. Researchers must continue to improve efforts for quantifying the experience of children’s daily activity contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah G Taylor
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Brenton L Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- School of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
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Taylor LG, Clark AF, Gilliland JA. Context Matters: Examining children's perceived barriers to physical activity across varying Canadian environments. Health Place 2018; 54:221-228. [PMID: 30368100 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Children's perceptions of their environment have been associated with their physical activity (PA) levels, however a better understanding of the formation of perceptions within different contexts is needed. This will help to inform decision making related to physical inactivity trends in Canadian children. We examined socio-ecological factors influencing children's perceptions of barriers to PA in Ontario, Canada. Binary logistic regression models measured the relationship between perceptions of barriers and PA for 892 children in Ontario. At the intrapersonal level, girls reported the most barriers to PA. Interpersonally, children whose mother was employed reported the most barriers. At the physical environment level, children in urban and suburban neighbourhoods of large cities, and rural areas reported the most barriers, differing relative to population size. The major contribution of this paper is a new perspective of environmental influences on children's perceptions of PA, using an urbanicity spectrum, and highlighting place specific needs of Canadian children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah G Taylor
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C2; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C2; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C2; Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada N6C 2V5; Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada N6A 5B9; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C2; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C2.
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Buttazzoni AN, Coen SE, Gilliland JA. Supporting active school travel: A qualitative analysis of implementing a regional safe routes to school program. Soc Sci Med 2018; 212:181-190. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Wilson K, Clark AF, Gilliland JA. Understanding child and parent perceptions of barriers influencing children's active school travel. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:1053. [PMID: 30134889 PMCID: PMC6106832 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5874-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity plays a fundamental role in the health and well-being of children. Walking is the most common form of physical activity and the journey to and from school provides an opportunity for children to be active every day. This study examines how child and parent perceptions of barriers to active school travel influences children's behaviour. METHODS Participants were recruited from 48 elementary schools in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. The study sample includes 1296 children (ages 9-14 years) who live within walking distance of their school, defined as 1.6 km network distance. Chi-square analysis examined differences between child and parent perceptions of barriers to active school travel. Logistic regression models examined how parent and child perceptions of barriers influence active school travel behaviour, while controlling for key intrapersonal, interpersonal, and physical environment factors. RESULTS The results indicate that there are significant differences in how parents and children perceive barriers to active school travel. Model results find older children, children without siblings, households with no vehicles, and children who live closer to school are most likely to use active school travel. Parent perceptions of barriers are found to have a greater influence on children's active school travel behaviour than children's perceptions. Different perceptions of barriers influence active school travel to school compared to returning home from school. CONCLUSIONS Child and parent perceptions of barriers to active school travel differ and have different impacts on children's travel behaviour. Understanding how child and parent perceptions of barriers differ can help policymakers and practitioners develop specialized interventions aimed at increasing children's use of active school travel and children's overall physical activity. Interventions used to promote active school travel should focus on safety, as well as perceptions of distance to break parental habits of routinely driving their children to school. Overall, this study highlights the importance of considering both child and parent perceptions to create a safe and accessible environment to allow for an increase in active school travel behaviour among elementary school children who live within walking distance of their school.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Wilson
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, N6A 3K7 Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E, London, N6C 2V5 Canada
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, N6A 3K7 Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E, London, N6C 2V5 Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, N6A 3K7 Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E, London, N6C 2V5 Canada
- School of Health Studies, Department of Paediatrics, & Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, N6A 3K7 Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, 750 Base Line Rd. E, London, N6C 2R5 Canada
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DuBreck CM, Sadler RC, Arku G, Gilliland JA. Examining community and consumer food environments for children: An urban-suburban-rural comparison in Southwestern Ontario. Soc Sci Med 2018; 209:33-42. [PMID: 29787926 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate how retail food environments for children in the City of London and Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada, vary according to level of urbanicity and level of socioeconomic distress. Urbanicity in this study is defined as a neighbourhood's designation as urban, suburban, or rural. We assessed community food environments (e.g., the type, location, and accessibility of food outlets) using 800m and 1600m network buffers (school zones) around all public and private elementary schools, and we calculated and compared density of junk food opportunities (JFO) (e.g., fast food and full-service restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores) within each school zone in urban, suburban and rural settings. The study also assessed consumer food environments (e.g., the price, promotion, placement, and availability of healthy options and nutrition information) through restaurant children's menu audits using the Children's Menu Assessment tool. Results suggest JFO density is greater around elementary schools in areas with higher levels of socioeconomic distress and urbanicity, while urbanicity is also associated with greater use of branded marketing and inclusion of an unhealthy dessert on children's menus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M DuBreck
- University of Western Ontario, Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada; University of Western Ontario, Department of Geography, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Richard C Sadler
- University of Western Ontario, Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada; Michigan State University, Department of Family Medicine/Division of Public Health, College of Human Medicine, 200 E 1st St, Flint, MI, 48502, United States
| | - Godwin Arku
- University of Western Ontario, Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada; University of Western Ontario, Department of Geography, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- University of Western Ontario, Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada; University of Western Ontario, Department of Geography, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada; University of Western Ontario, School of Health Studies, Department of Paediatrics., Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd E, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada.
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Wilk P, Clark AF, Maltby A, Smith C, Tucker P, Gilliland JA. Examining individual, interpersonal, and environmental influences on children's physical activity levels. SSM Popul Health 2018; 4:76-85. [PMID: 29349276 PMCID: PMC5769121 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore individual-level socio-demographic factors and interpersonal-level factors related to social support, as well as the potential role of neighborhood and school environments that may influence the physical activity (PA) levels of children (ages 9-11). Child and parent questionnaires included individual and interpersonal factors, and PA behaviour. Home postal codes were used to determine the neighbourhood the child resides within, as well as their geographic accessibility to recreation opportunities. The models were assessed using a series of cross-classified random-intercept multi-level regression models as children's PA may be affected by both the school they attend and the neighbourhood in which they live. In the unadjusted model, PA varied significantly across school environments (γ = 0.023; CI: 0.003-0.043), but not across neighbourhoods (γ = 0.007; CI: -0.008 to 0.021). Boys were found to be more active compared to girls (b = 0.183; CI: 0.092-0.275), while the level of PA was lower for children whose fathers achieved post-secondary education (b = - 0.197; CI: -0.376 to 0.018) than for those whose parents completed only high school. The addition of the individual-level correlates did not have a substantial effect on level 2 variances and the level 2 variance associated with school environment remained statistically significant. At the interpersonal level, children's perception of parental support (b = 0.117; CI: 0.091-0.143) and peer support (b = 0.111; CI: 0.079-0.142) were positively related to PA. The level 2 variance for the school environment became statistically non-significant when the interpersonal factors were added to the model. At the environmental level, geographic accessibility did not have a significant association with PA and they did not significantly affect level 1 or 2 variance. As many children do not accrue sufficient levels of PA, identifying modifiable determinants is necessary to develop effective strategies to increase PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Wilk
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, & Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Canada N6A 3K7
- Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Canada N6C 2V5
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, & Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Canada N6A 3K7
| | - Alana Maltby
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Canada N6A 3K7
| | - Christine Smith
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, & Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Canada N6A 3K7
| | - Patricia Tucker
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Canada N6A 3K7
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, Canada N6C 2V5
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, School of Health Studies, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, & Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Canada N6A 3K7
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Wilk P, Clark AF, Maltby A, Tucker P, Gilliland JA. Exploring the effect of parental influence on children's physical activity: The mediating role of children's perceptions of parental support. Prev Med 2018; 106:79-85. [PMID: 29030264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to test a conceptual model linking parental support and parental physical activity (PA), with children's perception of parental support and children's PA. Baseline data were drawn from the Grade 5 ACT-i-Pass community-based PA intervention conducted in London, Ontario between May and October 2014. Parent and child PA were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children, respectively. Questions pertaining to parental support and children's perception of that parental support were obtained via questionnaires. We employed structural equation modeling techniques to test the conceptual model. In total, 467 boys and 469 girls were included in the study. The model provided an acceptable model fit. Child's perception of parental support for PA had a positive effect on boys' (b=0.319) and girls' (b=0.326) PA. Parental PA was not significantly related to child's perception of parental support for PA. However, parent reported support for PA had a significant, positive effect on child's perception of parental support for boys (b=0.352) and girls (b=0.584). In terms of the indirect effects, the effect of parental PA on child's PA was not statistically significant; however, as expected, parental support for PA had a statistically significant indirect effect on child PA level in both groups. The findings of this study demonstrate the importance of children's perceptions of parental support in relation to their PA behaviours. Developing a better understanding of factors related to children's PA and identifying determinants and mediators of activity behaviours will help inform PA interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Wilk
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London N6C 2V5, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London N6C 2V5, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Alana Maltby
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Patricia Tucker
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London N6C 2V5, Canada; Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada; School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London N6A 3K7, Canada.
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Clark AF, Wilk P, Mitchell CA, Smith C, Archer J, Gilliland JA. Examining How Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status, Geographic Accessibility, and Informational Accessibility Influence the Uptake of a Free Population-Level Physical Activity Intervention for Children. Am J Health Promot 2017; 32:315-324. [PMID: 28677402 DOI: 10.1177/0890117117718433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the uptake of ACT-i-Pass (G5AP), a physical activity (PA) intervention that provides free access to PA opportunities, and to understand the extent to which the intervention provides equitable access to children. DESIGN This study evaluates the differences in uptake (ie, enrollment) by comparing postal codes of registrants with the postal codes of all eligible children. SETTING Children were provided the opportunity to register for the G5AP during the 2014 to 2015 school year in London, Canada. PARTICIPANTS The population of grade 5 students in London who registered for the G5AP (n = 1484) and did not register (n = 1589). INTERVENTION The G5AP offered grade 5 students free access to select PA facilities/programs during 2014 to 2015 school year. MEASURES Measures included G5AP registration status, method of recruitment, distance between home and the nearest facility, and neighborhood socioeconomic status. ANALYSIS Getis-Ord Gi* and multilevel logistic regression were used to analyze these data. RESULTS There were significant differences in the uptake of the G5AP: residing in neighborhoods of high income (odds ratio [OR] = 1.062, P = .029) and high proportion of recent immigrants (OR = 1.036, P = .001) increased the likelihood of G5AP registration. Children who were recruited actively were significantly more likely to register for the G5AP (OR = 2.444, P < .001). CONCLUSION To increase the uptake of a PA intervention, children need to be actively recruited. Interactive presentations provide children with increased access to information about both the program and its nuances that cannot be communicated as effectively through passive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew F Clark
- 1 Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,2 Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- 1 Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,3 Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,4 Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christine A Mitchell
- 1 Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,2 Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christine Smith
- 1 Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,2 Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Josh Archer
- 5 Healthy Eating-Healthy Physical Activity, Child & Youth Network, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- 1 Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,2 Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,3 Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,4 Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,6 School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Hand CL, Rudman DL, Huot S, Gilliland JA, Pack RL. Toward Understanding Person–Place Transactions in Neighborhoods: A Qualitative-Participatory Geospatial Approach. The Gerontologist 2017; 58:89-100. [DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnx064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carri L Hand
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London
| | | | - Suzanne Huot
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography, School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, London
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London
| | - Rachael L Pack
- Department of Women’s Studies and Feminist Research, University of Western Ontario, London
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Sadler RC, Clark AF, Wilk P, O'Connor C, Gilliland JA. Using GPS and activity tracking to reveal the influence of adolescents' food environment exposure on junk food purchasing. Can J Public Health 2016; 107:5346. [PMID: 27281521 DOI: 10.17269/cjph.107.5346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examines the influence of adolescents' exposure to unhealthy food outlets on junk food purchasing during trips between home and school, with particular attention to how exposure and purchasing differ according to child's biological sex, mode of transportation, and direction to or from school. METHODS Between 2010 and 2013, students (n = 654) aged 9-13 years from 25 schools in London and Middlesex County, ON, completed a socio-demographic survey and an activity diary (to identify food purchases), and were observed via a global positioning system for 2 weeks (to track routes for trips to/from school). Spatial data on routes and purchase data were integrated with a validated food outlet database in a geographic information system, and exposure was measured as the minutes a child spent within 50 m of an unhealthy food outlet (i.e., fast food restaurants, variety stores). For trips involving junk food exposure (n = 4588), multilevel logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between exposure and purchasing. RESULTS Multilevel analyses indicated that adolescents' duration of exposure to unhealthy food outlets between home and school had a significant effect on the likelihood of junk food purchasing. This relationship remained significant when the data were stratified by sex (female/male), trip direction (to/from school) and travel mode (active/car), with the exception of adolescents who travelled by bus. CONCLUSION Policies and programs that mitigate the concentration of unhealthy food outlets close to schools are critical for encouraging healthy eating behaviours among children and reducing diet-related health issues such as obesity.
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Gilliland JA, Clark AF, Tucker P, Prapavessis H, Avison W, Wilk P. The ACT-i-Pass study protocol: How does free access to recreation opportunities impact children's physical activity levels? BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1286. [PMID: 26700641 PMCID: PMC4690323 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2637-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity during childhood is associated with a multitude of physical, behavioural, and psychological health benefits. Identification of effective population level strategies for increasing children's physical activity levels is critical for improving the overall health of Canadians. The overall objective of this study is to assess how a naturally-occurring, community-level intervention which offers Grade 5 children in London, Canada a free access pass to physical activity opportunities (facilities and programs) for an entire school year can lead to increased physical activity among recipients. METHODS/DESIGN This study adopts a longitudinal cohort study design to assess the effectiveness of improving children's access to physical activity opportunities for increasing their physical activity levels. To meet our overall objective we have three aims: (1) to assess whether the provision of free access increases children's physical activity levels during and after the intervention compared to a control group; (2) to assess how and why child-specific trajectories of physical activity (between-children differences in level of physical activity measured across time) in the intervention group differ according to children's individual and household characteristics; and (3) to explore additional factors that are unaccounted for in the theoretical model to gain a further understanding of why the free access intervention had varying effects on changing physical activity levels. We will be addressing these aims using a mixed methods approach, including: a series of youth surveys conducted before, during, immediately after, and 4-months after the intervention; parent surveys before, during, and post-intervention; real-time tracking of the access pass use during the intervention; and focus groups at the conclusion of the intervention. Data compiled from the youth surveys will provide a subjective measure of physical activity to be used as our outcome measure to address our primary aims. DISCUSSION The results of this study can inform policy- and decision-makers about the sub-groups of the population that benefitted the most (or least) from the intervention to provide more specific information on how to develop and target future interventions to have a greater impact on the physical activity levels and overall health of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Lab, University of Western Ontario, Social Science Centre, London, N6A 5C2, ON, Canada. .,Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2V5, ON, Canada. .,Lawson Health Research Institute, 268 Grosvenor St, London, N6A 4V2, ON, Canada. .,Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, Social Science Centre, London, N6A 5C2, ON, Canada. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2R6, ON, Canada. .,School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, Arthur and Sonia Labatt Health Sciences Building, London, N6A 5B9, ON, Canada.
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Lab, University of Western Ontario, Social Science Centre, London, N6A 5C2, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2V5, ON, Canada.,Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, Social Science Centre, London, N6A 5C2, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia Tucker
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, Elborn College, London, N6G 1H1, ON, Canada
| | - Harry Prapavessis
- School of Kinesiology, University of Western Ontario, Thames Hall, London, N6A 5B9, ON, Canada
| | - William Avison
- Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2V5, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, 268 Grosvenor St, London, N6A 4V2, ON, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2R6, ON, Canada.,Department of Sociology, University of Western Ontario, Social Science Centre, London, N6A 5C2, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, Kresge Bldg, London, N6A 5C1, ON, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Human Environments Analysis Lab, University of Western Ontario, Social Science Centre, London, N6A 5C2, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2V5, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, 268 Grosvenor St, London, N6A 4V2, ON, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, N6C 2R6, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, Kresge Bldg, London, N6A 5C1, ON, Canada
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48
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Sadler RC, Gilliland JA. Comparing children's GPS tracks with geospatial proxies for exposure to junk food. Spat Spatiotemporal Epidemiol 2015; 14-15:55-61. [PMID: 26530823 DOI: 10.1016/j.sste.2015.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Various geospatial techniques have been employed to estimate children's exposure to environmental cardiometabolic risk factors, including junk food. But many studies uncritically rely on exposure proxies which differ greatly from actual exposure. Misrepresentation of exposure by researchers could lead to poor decisions and ineffective policymaking. This study conducts a GIS-based analysis of GPS tracks--'activity spaces'--and 21 proxies for activity spaces (e.g. buffers, container approaches) for a sample of 526 children (ages 9-14) in London, Ontario, Canada. These measures are combined with a validated food environment database (including fast food and convenience stores) to create a series of junk food exposure estimates and quantify the errors resulting from use of different proxy methods. Results indicate that exposure proxies consistently underestimate exposure to junk foods by as much as 68%. This underestimation is important to policy development because children are exposed to more junk food than estimated using typical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard C Sadler
- Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, 200 E 1st St, Flint, MI 48502, United States.
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Health Sciences, and Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada.
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49
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Sadler RC, Gilliland JA, Arku G. Stakeholder and Policy Maker Perception of Key Issues in Food Systems Planning and Policy Making. Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/19320248.2013.845867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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50
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Nash DM, Gilliland JA, Evers SE, Wilk P, Campbell MK. Determinants of diet quality in pregnancy: sociodemographic, pregnancy-specific, and food environment influences. J Nutr Educ Behav 2013; 45:627-634. [PMID: 23850015 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2013.04.268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To advance the knowledge of determinants of diet quality in pregnancy by focusing on both personal characteristics and the food environment. DESIGN Cross-sectional study in which participants from the Prenatal Health Project were linked to a geographic dataset by home address. Access to fast food, convenience stores, and grocery stores was measured using a geographic information system (ArcGIS9.3). SETTING Pregnant women (n = 2,282) were recruited between 2002 and 2005 in London, Ontario, Canada. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Dietary quality was measured using a validated food frequency questionnaire and the Canadian Diet Quality Index for Pregnancy. ANALYSIS Univariate and multivariate linear regressions were calculated with the predictor variables on the Canadian Diet Quality Index for Pregnancy. RESULTS Pregnant women who were born in Canada, common-law, nulliparous, less physically active, smokers, more anxious, or lacking family support had lower diet quality on average. Presence of fast-food restaurants, convenience stores, and grocery stores within 500 m of participants' homes was not associated with diet quality after controlling for personal variables. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The food environment does not seem to have a large influence on diet quality in pregnancy. Further research is needed to determine other potential reasons for low diet quality among pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Nash
- Department of Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada; Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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