A research review identified four factors other than knowledge that influence decisions regarding healthful behaviors: perceptions of risks, perceptions of self, physical and social environment, and perceptions of costs and benefits of recommended behavior. Findings were used to develop guidelines for messages and programs designed to encourage…

Ten nursing teachers in two Finnish polytechnics stated that their involvement in curriculum development was impeded by lack of time. They felt that health promotion was adequately addressed, although there was no evidence that new approaches recommended by the World Health Organization and other bodies were being used. (Contains 49 references.)…

Offers a feminist critique of sex education programs in Canada. An ideal curriculum would cover the full range of human preferences and practices. Discusses the benefits of such a policy for lesbian and gay youth, but taking into account the conservative point of view. (DM)

A weight management program utilized the participant's own data for the participant to (1) understand energy balance; (2) compare his/her diet with U.S. dietary codes; (3) know which food selections were high in calories, fat, and cholesterol, and low in complex carbohydrates and fiber; and (4) understand weight management. (JD)

A recent study suggests that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level may be a better predictor of heart disease than total cholesterol level. Even moderate amounts of aerobic exercise can raise the level of HDL-C and lower the risk of coronary artery disease. (SM)

This article reviews literature related to the positive effects of outdoor education. The following dimensions of health, and the benefits associated with each, are discussed: emotional, social, physical, intellectual, and spiritual. A model of health benefits derived from outdoor recreation is presented, and implications for health education are…

Results from a survey of 83 U.S. institutions indicate that the internship is an important component in most undergraduate and graduate community health education/promotion professional preparation programs. Data are also presented on intern supervision and policies relating to salaries for interns. (IAH)

The health and fitness program for school staff at Deerfield High School (IL) is described. Program development, facilities, costs, activities, and staff are outlined. (IAH)

Needs assessment for a continuing medical education (CME) intervention directed at increasing breast cancer screening of women over 50 included a survey of target primary care physicians (n=323) to explore areas of interest for CME in breast care detection and to establish baseline screening practices. A survey of 1,440 women in the target age…

Appropriate physical conditioning can improve the physical and psychological health of pregnant students, ease delivery, aid recovery, and contribute to fetal health. This article discusses the importance of exercise during pregnancy, effects of exercise on maternal and fetal systems, and outlines precautions and guidelines for an exercise plan.…

Long-term outcomes of a school-based program (2,250 third-graders in 31 schools) were compared with an equivalent home-based program (1,000 families) involving parents. Students in the home-based program reported more behavior change in the reduction of fat and increase of carbohydrates in their diet. (SK)

By working with labor unions, health educators have the opportunity to reach worker groups that have been ignored by many worksite health promotion programs. A union-based smoking cessation program is described, and general guidelines for worksite health promotion are given. (IAH)

Beginning at an early age, children need a variety of regular activities focusing on health-related fitness and motor skills development presented in a funfilled environment. Such activity helps them to move more efficiently, use objects, establish healthy exercise habits, and develop essential motor skills. (CB)

This article provides teachers with strategies for planning and organizing a positive, efficient physical fitness testing environment for K-12 students, including students with special needs. Methods of class organization and scheduling suggestions are presented. Sample record and score sheets are included. (IAH)

Findings from a survey of 1,830 New York state high school seniors include: smokeless tobacco use (STU) is predominately a rural male behavior; STU declines over timee; cigarette smoking begins before STU; peer influence and taste are cited most often as leading to STU. (IAH)