Funded Research

Exploring the implementation and potential adaptation of Action Schools! BC for Rural and Remote First Nations Communities

By P.J. Naylor, H. McKay, J. Scott, L.E. Bridgewater, J. Drummond and C. Panagiotopoulos
University of British Columbia

Full Report (PDF, 126 KB)

Summary (PDF, 22 KB)

Background

The health of Aboriginal people in Canada is globally poorer than that of other Canadians; even more concerning is the health of Aboriginal children and youth. Overweight and obesity have become major health challenges for all Canadian children, with an overall prevalence reported to be approximately 26%; however, for Aboriginal children, these numbers are even more concerning, with prevalence rates reported to be as high as 50 to 65% in some Canadian communities. In parallel to this increased rate of obesity, there has been a concomitant rise in the incidence of type 2 diabetes worldwide. Of particular concern is the appearance and increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes among Aboriginal youth. Effective treatment and prevention strategies are essential to prevent the long-term complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

Goal and objectives

The purpose of the project and research was to:

  1. determine if the existing AS! BC model was feasible and appropriate for schools and children in rural and remote Aboriginal communities; and
  2. to explore implementation in that context (facilitators, barriers and adaptations).

The long term goal is to improve the health and health literacy of Aboriginal Canadians living in Aboriginal communities through a school-based program designed to increase physical activity and physical fitness, and improve nutrition.

Description

The Action Schools! BC (AS! BC) model (www.actionschoolsbc.ca/) was designed to serve as a primary prevention tool for known chronic diseases through a sustainable physical activity and healthy eating program that goes beyond the traditional confines of the classroom using a ‘whole school model’. This program also actively promotes the translation of research knowledge by engaging key stakeholders in the school and the larger community. The AS! BC program addresses this need for effort at multiple levels, but does not currently address the Aboriginal need to incorporate, clearly and specifically, the desired traditional activities and diet.