Feasibility of a lifestyle cardiovascular health promotion programme for 8-15-year olds in Irish general practice: results of the Galway Health Project

Health promotion initiatives in general practice suggest moderate benefit f or adults, but little evidence in children. This study assessed the feasibi lity of a cardiovascular programme for 8-15-year-olds targeted at smoking, exercise and diet. Following an initial needs assessment of 56 general prac titioners (response rare 69%), 12 practices were randomized to a I-year fac torial intervention study based on nurse- or doctor-led clinics offered opp ortunistically at surgery attendance or by recall from age-sex register. A purpose-designed information programme was used by both doctors and nurses at a 10-min appointment session. All participants completed a baseline ques tionnaire and were followed up I year later As part of the intervention, 51 6 people were seen; half to nurse-led recall clinics (15% attendance rate). Doctors reported lack of time to organize recall clinics though attendance at both types of opportunistic clinics was similar. Families from higher s ocio-economic groups were significantly over-represented among attenders (C hi square 31.64, p < 0.0001); 29% of adults and 16% of 12-15-year-olds were current smokers at baseline. There were high satisfaction levels (98%) amo ng attendees with the educational materials. There were significant gains i n several nutrition and exercise knowledge indicators at follow-up among bo th children and adults. A survey of a 10% sample of non-attenders revealed that inconvenience of appointment was the largest obstacle to attendance (7 1 %). A survey of 35 local schools in the catchment area revealed that the target topics were covered in the curriculum, but no concerted life skills programme was in place. For programmes to have an impact, nurse clinic reso urces and an adequate age-sex register are needed; there are considerable e conomic implications. Association with skill-based schools programmes would facilitate action on advice received in line with a multi-sectoral approac h.