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Commonwealth Institute
 

The role of schools in combating
Non Communicable Diseases
 

It is widely held that good quality physical activity education can equip students with the skills, knowledge and confidence required to enable them to participate fully in healthy active lifestyles and develop a lifetime love of physical activity thereby limiting the likely onset of Non Communicable Diseases. As concern had been expressed at the lack of viable scientific evidence to support this assertion, the Commonwealth Education Trust undertook a four year longitudinal multi disciplinary research programme to investigate the relationship between structured physical activity education and health factors.

Research


The researchers measured the physical activity levels and nutritional intake of 750 children in Australia, over a period of four years beginning at age 7-8, carefully monitoring a wide range of markers of bone, metabolic and cardiovascular health as well as psycho-social wellbeing and body movement efficiency. In order to investigate the influence of physical activity education, throughout the period of the study the children in half the schools undertook a special physical activity program taught by trained teachers.

Health factors measured


  • bone density and strength
  • incidence of risk factors associated cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes
  • immune system and the incidence of sickness
  • psychological health including self-esteem and self -confidence
  • body composition
  • postural control and balance
  • team-work and social skills
  • academic achievement

Data


The significant dataset collected over the course of the study has been gifted to Australia National University to provide for its long term future. Requests for access for research purposes should be addressed to Professor Andrew Cockburn, Director, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment.

Results


The Commonwealth Education Trust commissioned Australia National University to write a comprehensive report on the results of the study. Requests for copies of the report should be directed to the Secretary of the Commonwealth Education Trust.