Smokefree sports: A novel physical activity intervention to prevent smoking in 9-10 year old children
Author(s)
Lawrence Foweather, Ciara McGee and Jo Trigwell
Presenter(s)
Lawrence Foweather Post Doctoral Researcher, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool
Abstract
Introduction: Participation in physical activity (PA) may be protective against smoking initiation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate SmokeFree Sports (SFS), a school-based intervention that utilised PA to prevent smoking among primary school children.
Methods: A controlled-trial was conducted among Year 5 children (n=1097; 49% boys, Age Mean=9.5±0.3) in 43 primary schools across the North West of England between October 2012 and May 2013. Schools were clustered into intervention (n=32) and comparison groups (n=11). To assess children’s smoking-related attitudes, self-efficacy and intentions, a questionnaire was completed at baseline and post-intervention. Qualitative data was also collected through focus groups and interviews with children and coaches/teachers, respectively.
Results: Compared to the controls, the intervention group were more likely to believe that: 1) it is not safe to smoke for a year or two (RR= 1.2, P<0.01); 2) it is difficult to quit (RR= 1.5, P<0.05); 3) second-hand smoke is harmful to you (RR= 1.2, P<0.01), 4) smoking effects sport performance (RR= 1.6, P<0.01) and 5) makes ‘no difference’ to weight control (RR=2.0, P<0.01). No intervention effects were observed for refusal self-efficacy (P=.20) or intentions (P=.45). Qualitative data revealed that the intervention components made children more determined not to smoke and resolute in their abstinence.
Conclusions: SFS had a positive impact on children’s attitudes toward smoking. To determine the long-term effects of SFS and therefore the efficacy of PA as a smoking prevention strategy, a 12 month follow-up is planned.
Source of funding: Liverpool City Council
Liverpool Primary Care Trust
