Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health burden, particularly affecting adolescents due to preventable risk factors. However, adolescents are frequently overlooked in NCD prevention efforts that directly impact them. This study aimed to evaluate adolescents' perspectives, experiences, perceptions, and preferences regarding their participation in NCD prevention activities.
METHODS:
To enable both breadth and depth, a mixed-methods study design was selected comprising cross-sectional online survey and focus groups, underpinned by community-based participatory research approach. Participants were 13-18 years and residing in Australia. Methodological integration through merging quantitative and qualitative data was employed. A weaving approach through narrative was used to report the findings. Adolescent researchers were actively engaged throughout all phases.
RESULTS:
Five hundred one survey participants (mean 16.0 years, SD 1.2) and 19 focus group participants (mean 17.0 years, SD 0.9) contributed to this study. Mental health disorders were identified as the most significant health concern. Those with prior volunteer experience showed greater engagement in health-promoting activities. Participants recognised their pivotal role in NCD prevention, highlighting 'influence' as crucial for health improvements. They emphasised the importance of visibility, flexibility, and authenticity in engagement methods. Despite a strong willingness to participate in future NCD prevention activities, participants cited barriers such as limited opportunities.
CONCLUSION:
This study highlights the importance of adolescent involvement in NCD prevention and suggests strategies to overcome participation barriers. Recommendations include promoting meaningful engagement, improving accessibility, and fostering collaboration with decision makers. These insights are crucial for guiding future efforts to tackle NCD challenges among adolescents.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health burden, particularly affecting adolescents due to preventable risk factors. However, adolescents are frequently overlooked in NCD prevention efforts that directly impact them. This study aimed to evaluate adolescents' perspectives, experiences, perceptions, and preferences regarding their participation in NCD prevention activities.
METHODS:
To enable both breadth and depth, a mixed-methods study design was selected comprising cross-sectional online survey and focus groups, underpinned by community-based participatory research approach. Participants were 13-18 years and residing in Australia. Methodological integration through merging quantitative and qualitative data was employed. A weaving approach through narrative was used to report the findings. Adolescent researchers were actively engaged throughout all phases.
RESULTS:
Five hundred one survey participants (mean 16.0 years, SD 1.2) and 19 focus group participants (mean 17.0 years, SD 0.9) contributed to this study. Mental health disorders were identified as the most significant health concern. Those with prior volunteer experience showed greater engagement in health-promoting activities. Participants recognised their pivotal role in NCD prevention, highlighting 'influence' as crucial for health improvements. They emphasised the importance of visibility, flexibility, and authenticity in engagement methods. Despite a strong willingness to participate in future NCD prevention activities, participants cited barriers such as limited opportunities.
CONCLUSION:
This study highlights the importance of adolescent involvement in NCD prevention and suggests strategies to overcome participation barriers. Recommendations include promoting meaningful engagement, improving accessibility, and fostering collaboration with decision makers. These insights are crucial for guiding future efforts to tackle NCD challenges among adolescents.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 1744 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1-18 |
| Number of pages | 18 |
| Journal | BMC Public Health |
| Volume | 25 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 13 May 2025 |
