The Impact of Health Promoting School Program On

Theoretical Background and research questions/hypothesis:  The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of implementation of Health Promoting School Program on Lifestyle of Adolescent Saudi Girls.

Methods: A random  sample of school girl  students (n =1560)  at third intermediate ( 9^th grade)  and third secondary (12^thgrade ) studying in Health Promoting Schools (HPS) compared to  an equal sample from non- Health Promoting Schools  (non- HPS)  regarding  their dietary pattern , health habits , behavior  and  physical activities.    

Results:  This  study   showed  that there was  a positive  impact of implementing  HPS program on the  lifestyle of (HPS) students . Regarding the BMI of students, the percentages of overweight (HPS) students were less than that of non- (HPS) students. The (HPS) students are more accustomed to eating their breakfast daily and  taking  it  at home . They are more frequently consuming healthy food like milk , dates , fresh vegetables , fresh fruits and fresh fruit juices . They are  less frequently consuming  junk food  like carbonated drinks, energy drinks and  fast  meals.  The healthy  habits like taking bath more than three times weekly, washing hair with soap or shampoo more than three times weekly  and  brushing teeth daily were  more prevalent among the (HPS) students .They are  more frequently walking for 30 – 60 minutes daily and practicing other physical activities and less frequently  watching television , video  and  playing computer. They are more frequently following  pedestrian crossing signs, following traffic lights, sharing  competitions related to health education .

Conclusions: The study clearly showed  that (HPS) program had a positive  impact on the lifestyle of students. So, we hope to share our experience in implementing and evaluating the program to  compare our outcome with others in this field.

Implications for research and/or practice:At the end of this presentation participants will be able to discuss , evaluate and compare the outcome of our program with  others all over the world .