Journal of Obesity & Weight Loss Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

Childhood obesity is increasing worldwide. In rural north-east Romania, the prevalence of obesity in elementary school children
increased from 2.5% to 4.4% in the last five years. Activities to promote health and disease prevention are a difficult task. Cultural
forces are powerful determinants of health related behaviors. Traditional lifeways could promote specific healthy outcomes; by
contrast, a loss of cultural traditions during the acculturation is a risk factor for obesity. We have developed culturally adapted
nutrition education: ‘The Granny’s Health Bag - Traista cu sanatate’ educational kit. Since 2012, more than 5000 elementary school
children involved in “Healthy Traditions for Healthy Children” program used the educational kit. “The Granny’s Health Bag”
illustrates a traditional bag - traista, which is used to transport food, water and sport items. A survey involving the students’ teachers
was conducted between September 2013 and September 2014. A total of 30 teachers (100%) completed the survey. Teachers indicated
that program materials (books, CDs, videos, brochures, posters, sheets, bags and newsletters) were useful (mean, 4.8). In urban
schools where the program was implemented, the prevalence of childhood obesity decreased from 6.5% to 5.6%. The use of culturally
competent language and images can increase the effectiveness and receptivity of obesity prevention programs.

Biography