Afterschool physical activity program to reduce obesity-related cancer risk: a feasibility study.

Background: Cancer is linked to obesity, and Native Hawaiian childhood obesity rates are high. We examined the feasibility of incorporating a physical activity intervention into an afterschool program for elementary school children.
Methods: Anthropometric and fitness measures were taken at baseline and 12 weeks later for 68 students in 2 schools. In one, the supervisor delivered a model curriculum. In the other, a supervisor with physical education training created the curriculum.
Results: We found a significant decrease in skinfold thicknesses and increase in distance covered in the 3-minute walk-run test.
Conclusions: Incorporating daily physical activity into afterschool programs is feasible and effective, but teacher interest is critical, and the nonmandatory nature of this venue may limit children's participation.