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Physical inactivity is a problem in Europe, contributing to various non-communicable diseases (NCDs). While health sciences offer data and models for preventing the development of NCDs through health promotion, they do not explain the dynamics between the different institutions and actors in the health field. Neofunctionalism refers to these different actors and suggests that their interaction leads to the construction of a supranational authority, allowing the actors to cooperate on common policies, rules and institutions, resulting in integration and Europeanization. Indeed, there are a variety of European Union (EU) institutions and policies concerned with physical activity (PA), however, the purpose of this paper is to analyze if Europeanization and integration are happening in PA promotion, through the lens of neofunctionalism. Analysis uses process tracing for investigating the emergence of PA on the EU agenda, the legal background, existing policies and institutions. Findings indicate that Europeanization and integration of PA promotion are happening, although the opportunity for actions of the EU are restricted to voluntary actions of the EU Member States due to the agreements in the Treaty of Lisbon. This only allows the EU institutions to apply soft law approaches on PA promotion, which seems to be implemented in some Member States despite its non-binding character. The findings are discussed and further implications for public health professionals and policies outlined.
Background:
Adolescent substance use is a global and local (Hawaii) problem. Therefore, the study goal was to develop and investigate the effect of an adolescent substance use prevention intervention website in Hawaii.
Methods:
A website was developed including drug overviews, health effects, how to stay away, external prevention and treatment resources, and an evaluation. Three grade 11 classes completed a baseline (T1) survey based on website content and a follow-up (T2) assessment after a 15-minute website interaction. - Results: At T1, 63/72 and at T2, 62 students participated (16–17 years old; 92% female; 87.2% Filipino). The number correct increased from 48.0% (SD = 14.5) at T1 to 82.0% (SD = 15.3) at T2 (t(59) = 13.5, p < .001). Eleven of twelve topics improved (p < .5) which addressed mental disorder drug use, workplace meth-use in Hawaii, Americans in need of drug/alcohol treatment, stimulant drugs, side effects of drugs, drug related domestic/child abuse, short-term drug effects, Hawaii and national methuse, chemicals in drugs, how to stay away, and ways of treatment.
Conclusions:
Adolescents improved their substance use prevention understanding. This is promising considering the brief, inexpensive, potentially scalable intervention which can be implemented within high school curricula.