Improving school policies to prevent childhood obesity and support heart health

Using implementation mapping to maximize equity of school-based policies for obesity prevention

NIH-funded research Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11019712

This study is looking at how to make it easier for schools to provide healthy meals and programs to help prevent obesity and heart disease in kids, especially those from low-income and minority families, so that more children can enjoy better nutrition and do better in school.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTemple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11019712 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the implementation of policies and programs aimed at preventing obesity and cardiovascular diseases among children, particularly those from minority and low-income backgrounds. It aims to address barriers to effective school-based interventions, such as Universal School Meals, which provide nutritious meals to students. By understanding the challenges schools face in adopting these programs, the research seeks to develop strategies that ensure better participation and adherence to nutritional standards. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable framework that promotes healthier eating habits and improves academic outcomes for children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents, particularly those from racial/ethnic minority and low-income families, who are at higher risk for obesity and related health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this research include those who are not school-aged or do not attend schools that participate in the Universal School Meals program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective school policies that significantly reduce obesity rates and improve cardiovascular health among children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that similar school-based interventions can effectively reduce obesity rates and improve dietary quality among low-income students.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.