The Green Prescription Active Families programme in Taranaki, New Zealand 2007–2009: Did it reach children in need?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The Green Prescription Active Families (GRxAF) programme focuses on overweight/ obese children and adolescents, and is family/whanau based. It is an intervention supporting lifestyle changes through weekly sessions (nutrition advice and/or physical activity), and goal setting for the family/whanau for up to 12 months. AIMS: To describe the GRxAF programme in Taranaki and evaluate its reach and engagement, especially for those most at risk of obesity. METHODS: Participant files for each referred child from May 2007 to December 2009 were reviewed. Baseline demographic data, programme graduation information, and weekly activity session attendance were collected. RESULTS: Of the 109 participants during the audit period, 39% were Maori, 57% New Zealand European (NZE), 3% Pacific, and 1% Other ethnicity. Mean age at entry was 10 (range 4–17) years. Mean duration of programme involvement was five (range 0–12) months. Overall, 33/60 (55%) of the participants completing the programme during the audit period graduated, having made steps towards healthy lifestyle change. In comparison with NZE (68%), a smaller proportion of Maori (40%) graduated (p=0.04). In comparison with those who attended no sessions, participants who attended any sessions were more likely to make positive changes (OR=3.65, 95% CI 1.24–10.8). DISCUSSION: GRxAF in Taranaki met a need for some obese/overweight children, but not for all families/whanau, especially those over-represented in childhood obesity statistics. Programme delivery for Maori requires improvement, and assessment of readiness to make lifestyle change as an enrolment criteria for all participants is recommended. KEYWORDS: Adolescent; child; nutrition; obesity; physical activity; treatment