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A Multiple Technology–Based Physical Activity Intervention for Latina Adolescents: Results From the Chicas Fuertes Randomized Controlled Trial

Jacob R. Carson, Emily D Greenstadt, Brittany Olivera, S. Dunsiger, Michelle Zive, Michael Higgins, J. Godino, B. Marcus et al.

JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 2025

160 participants · 6 citations

Abstract

Abstract Background Latina adolescents report low levels of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and high lifetime risk of lifestyle-related diseases. There is a lack of MVPA interventions targeted at this demographic despite documented health disparities. Given their high rates of mobile technology use, interventions delivered through mobile devices may be effective for this population. Objective This paper examines the efficacy of the Chicas Fuertes intervention in increasing MVPA across 6 months in Latina adolescents. Methods Participants were Latina adolescents (aged 13‐18 years) in San Diego County who reported being underactive (<150 min/wk of MVPA). All participants received a wearable fitness tracker (Fitbit Inspire HR); half were randomly assigned to also receive the multimedia intervention. Intervention components included a personally tailored website, personalized texting based on Fitbit data, and social media. The primary outcome was change in minutes of weekly MVPA from baseline to 6 months, measured by ActiGraph accelerometers and the 7-Day Physical Activity Recall Interview. Changes in daily steps using Fitbit devices were also examined to test intervention efficacy. Results Participants (N=160) were 15.85 (SD 1.71) years old on average, and mostly second generation in the United States. For ActiGraph-measured MVPA, participants in the intervention group (n=83) increased from a median of 0 (IQR 0-24) minutes/week at baseline to 64 (IQR 19-72)…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 160 participants or records.

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