Cardiovascular Health Knowledge of Children and School Personnel in Louisiana Public Schools

Abstract

Questionnaires describing educational and administrative practices and cardiovascular health knowledge tests for fourth, sixth, and 12th grade students, teachers, and principals were used to evaluate cardiovascular health knowledge in a carefully matched, representative sample in Louisiana public schools. Data indicated cardiovascular health knowledge of both professionals and students was low, with several correlations between knowledge and educational or administrative practices. Recommendations for improvements in school health education programs are offered.