The effect of health promoting schools programs in improving the health status of schools in Urmia, North West of Iran

Investing in the health of children in learning situation is one of the most important
health interventions. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of health promoting schools in
improving the health status of schools in Urmia, North West of Iran.
Methods and materials: This interventional study was conducted on 155 schools executing the health
promoting schools program that were included by census. Data collection instrument was standard
checklist of health promoting schools approved by Ministry of health and Ministry of education. Data
were collected in two-stage before and after intervention during 12 months. Data were analyzed using
the software SPSS 16.0 and descriptive statistics and Paired t- test were used.
Results: There were 217 schools in Urmia in primary, Middle and High school. A total of 155
schools surveyed in the study, 77 schools (49.7%) were primary school, 68 schools (43.9%) junior
schools, and 10 schools (6.5%) were high school. Mean score of rates was 59.35 + 13.22 before the
intervention and 63.94 + 12.1 after intervention and this difference was statistically significant
(P<0.05). Also, the rates of nine dimensions before and after the intervention increased excluding the
two dimensions of clinical services and mental health services and counseling and these findings were
statistically significant (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The results showed that health promoting schools program was effective in improving
schools in terms of health promotion. It is recommended that families, organizations, and policy
makers to be involved in the implementation of this program.