NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving nutrition and physical activity for young children

Official title: Prevention Research Center on Nutrition and Physical Activity

Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-10874209 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is all about helping kids aged 0-5 eat better and be more active in their early learning environments, working with local partners to find fun and effective ways to keep them healthy and happy.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHarvard School of Public Health
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startSeptember 30, 2024
Project endSeptember 29, 2029
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$986,241
NIH project number1U48DP006785-01
Project IDNIH-10874209 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are young children aged 0-5 years who are enrolled in early childhood education programs.

Less likely to help

Patients who are older than 5 years or not enrolled in early childhood education settings may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing nutrition and physical activity among children aged 0-5 years in early childhood education settings. By collaborating with community partners, the project aims to develop and implement effective strategies that promote healthy eating and active lifestyles. The research will evaluate these strategies to ensure they are cost-effective and equitable, addressing significant gaps in current health practices. The ultimate goal is to prevent excess weight gain and chronic diseases while advancing health equity for young children.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to healthier eating and physical activity habits in young children, reducing the risk of obesity and chronic diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in implementing similar community-based interventions to improve nutrition and physical activity among children.

Where this research is happening

  • Harvard School of Public Health
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gortmaker, Steven L — Harvard School of Public Health
  • Study coordinator: Gortmaker, Steven L

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.