The Effects of Multimedia Compact Disk-Based Lifestyle Interventions on Youth, 2003-2007 (The Youth Intervention Project)

Since most habits are formed during adolescence, the majority of educational programs target adolescents. On the other hand, widespread use of mass media has made them significantly important, especially in the field of health and lifestyle in recent years. Therefore, the present study evaluated the efficacy of multimedia compact discs (CDs) provided by the Isfahan Healthy Heart Program (IHHP) among the 19-25 year-old youth who attended Isfahan Red Crescent Society Classes. Method and Materials: This was an interventional study on Isfahan and Najaf Abad 19-25 year-old youth who participated in Isfahan Red Crescent Society classes. Inclusion criteria were providing a consent and the ability to use the CD. A standard questionnaire similar to the IHHP questionnaire was used. It was filled before and after the study. Participants were divided into two groups of control (Arak) and intervention (Isfahan and Najaf Abad). The average use of soft drink beverages and fast food decreased after the intervention compare to the control group. The percentage of high stress individuals and cigarette smokers also decreased in the intervention group compared to the control group. Physical activity did not change in the intervention group but decreased in the control group. Positive results of the IHHP interventional programs via multimedia CDs in the studied youth showed that using mass media including CDs can be effective in lifestyle modification and preventing non-communible diseases (NCDs).