Advancing Water Security: A Community Participatory School-Based Hydration Intervention

Launched by VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · Dec 2, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on improving hydration among students to help prevent dental issues and obesity. Over the next three years, the study will evaluate how well a community-based program works in schools that have recently added hydration stations, which are places where students can easily access drinking water. The aim is to promote healthy drinking habits and make sure all students have equal access to water during school hours.

Students from kindergarten to 5th grade, who eat lunch in the cafeteria, are eligible to participate in the trial. Specifically, 3rd graders will be tracked for their weight and dental health until they finish 5th grade. Additionally, students in 4th and 5th grade can take part in surveys about their drink choices and how they feel about hydration at school. School staff will also be asked to share their thoughts through surveys. Anyone interested in participating should know that the trial is currently looking for volunteers, and it’s a great opportunity to help improve health practices in the community!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Lunchroom observations: All students (K-5th \[Pre-Kindergarten if applicable\]) who eat lunch in the cafeteria on assessment days are eligible
• • BMI and dental caries assessments: 1) student enrolls in study while in 3rd grade (followed through 5th g)
• • Student surveys: Students in 4th-5th grade are eligible to complete surveys assessing beverage intake and perceptions of hydration practices within their school district.
• • Staff surveys: All staff in the target schools will be eligible to complete the Personnel Survey.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Lunchroom observations: None.
• • BMI and dental caries assessments: Students are ineligible if they are unable to complete assessments due to developmental or physical reasons, 2) planning to move in the study duration
• • Student surveys: None.
• • Staff surveys: None.