Funder: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Staff Contact: Sarah Moreland-Russell
Project Duration: May 2012 – present

Over the past few decades, the prevalence of obesity among US children has risen dramatically. The prevention of poor dietary behaviors and physical inactivity among young children is an important strategy for curbing the epidemic of obesity facing this country. Because a large number of children spend significant time in childcare centers, providers are positioned to improve nutrition and physical activity behaviors and decrease the prevalence of obesity and diabetes among children. Yet, sparse knowledge exists regarding the barriers to or promoters of the implementation of evidence-based nutrition and physical activity interventions among this audience. CPHSS is partnering with the Center for Diabetes Translation Research (CDTR) to conduct a study to identify these barriers and promoters among St. Louis childcare providers.

CPHSS is contributing formative research on dissemination and implementation research and the policy environment, assisting with community-based research by conducting interviews with childcare providers, state staff, and national experts, and assisting with the development of an assessment instrument. The results of the study will be used to inform policy makers and implementers of how childcare nutrition and physical activity policies can best be put into action.