Because schools are large employers, they are appropriate locations for worksite health promotion. The article describes how cholesterol screening introduced such a program into one school system with the assistance of key community systems. Of 1,639 employees, 74 percent underwent cholesterol screening. (SM)

Evaluated innovative corporate-sponsored health care program for retired employees and their dependents. Program included multidisciplinary heath care team, care coordination and referral, and health promotion workshops. Of 111 participants, 95% reported that participation helped them maintain or improve their health through increased knowledge…

A review of 19 studies on Native Americans examined 12 focused on chronic conditions (diabetes, heart disease, substance abuse, fetal alcohol syndrome) and 7 on prevention (dental disease, prenatal/infant health, nutrition, HIV prevention, health promotion). Results showed Native Americans particularly at risk for diabetes and alcohol abuse and…

Explored differences in wellness behavior between students who were selected as resident assistants and those who were not selected, after accounting for influence of self-esteem, grade point average, and leadership ability. Results from 117 resident assistant applicants revealed differences in wellness behavior, as measured by Lifestyle…

Describes five types of acne and stresses the importance of appropriate treatment. Some dermatologists believe diet is critical in improving acne. Other treatments include the use of drying lotions and soaps, astringents, abrasive cleansers, prescription drugs, face peels, and dermabrasion. (SM)

Researchers assessed the health education and promotion backgrounds, classroom practices, and attitudes about health education of 286 elementary educators. Survey results indicated teachers performed some health instruction and understood student health needs, but most had little formal training in the area and did not attend inservice workshops…

As personal fitness trainers move into the mainstream, physicians are increasingly recommending them to patients as part of ongoing health programs. Personal trainers provide personalized fitness programs, including exercise prescriptions and guidelines and nutrition information. The article explains how physicians can find qualified trainers for…

Environmental or second-hand smoke can have serious effects on children. Many smokers are more likely to consider quitting if they know they are causing harm to their children and families. Physicians must take the time to point out the dangers of passive smoking to parents who smoke. (SM)

The typical American playground is antiquated, hazardous, and inappropriate for the developmental needs of children. The paper explains how design, installation, maintenance, and supervision are critical in preventing playground injuries and resulting litigation, noting the importance of regular training for everyone who supervises children on the…

Provides guidelines for creating and promoting healthy environments in early-childhood education programs in order to prevent and control the spread of contagious disease. Offers illness-prevention strategies, practical suggestions for health-education curricula, and a self-assessment check list for early-childhood settings. Includes resources for…

Describes a South Carolina middle school's wellness program initiated by a home economics teacher. She performed a schoolwide assessment, examined research on risky behaviors, and involved community health and recreation service providers. A research-based program in Newport, Maine, also achieved results. A sidebar summarizes program building…

States health campaign messages designed to encourage behavior adaptation have greater likelihood of success than campaigns promoting avoidance of at-risk behaviors that cannot be avoided. Tests a model of health risk behavior using four different behaviors in a communication campaign aimed at reducing farmers' risk for skin cancer--questions…

Describes the Health Protection/Health Promotion Model of therapeutic recreation, highlighting its underlying concepts: the humanistic perspective, high-level wellness, the stabilization and actualization tendencies, and health. Describes components of the model (prescribed activities, recreation, and leisure), discusses utilization of the model…

A women's-health course developed by nursing faculty in cooperation with women's studies takes a holistic, contextual view of women's health. Student outcomes include heightened self-awareness, commitment to personal wellness and community service, and increased knowledge of the societal context of health issues. (SK)

Mold can seriously affect the health of children with asthma or allergies. Indoor air problems related to mold can be difficult to identify, but when several students who spend time in the same classroom area show allergic symptoms, it is important to consider mold and air quality. Failure to respond promptly can have serious consequences. (SM)