addition to spending time, they also leave USDA nutritional tip sheets with the contact to enhance what was discussed. As of August 1, 2013 CHPs had contacted just under 400 community members and have encouraged better nutritional habits. Another important project that taught youth to live healthy lifestyles was the Tennessee State University Youth Empowerment Program 2012 summer camp, conducted by Dr. Janice Emerson, Associate Director, CPR in the CAHNS. This program engaged 23 African American (AA) youth ages 1417 in an intensive 5-week hands-on nutrition, gardening, and physical activity training regimen that followed USDA guidelines for healthy yet affordable snacks and lunches.
Two TSU undergraduate students were trained as peer educators and facilitated the interactive nutrition education sessions. Pre- and three months post- program surveys of dietary knowledge and behavior were conducted and height and weight measurements were taken on the first day of camp and at three months postprogram. Chi-square tests determined if significant differences existed between those measurements taken prior to the program and those taken three months afterward. Statistically significant improvements included: consuming more fresh, frozen or dried fruits for snacks; consuming more whole grain cereal for snacks; using lower fat salad dressing; reading food labels; and percentage categorized as obese (26.7% pre to 20.0% post).
Investigators on the project added the writing and performing of a healthy-eating rap video to further engage and motivate the students, which was uploaded to YouTube and had nearly 5,500 views as of August 1, 2013. The video is titled “Nutrition Mission: Teens Empowered” and can be found at: http://youtu.be/BfIucNRFuYk. This small pilot study suggests that larger programs using intensive but short-term exposure to healthy food choices could have lasting benefits. For more information regarding either the CHEW or YEP programs, please contact Dr. Janice Emerson at jemerson@tnstate.edu or visit the CPR website at www.tnstate.edu/preventionresearch.
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