Using Intervention Mapping and Behavior Change Techniques to Develop a Health Promotion Intervention on Endocrine Disruptors: Development Study

TL;DR

This study created a health program for adolescents to learn about and reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors using a structured development approach.

Contribution

The COPE ADOS program is a novel, collaborative health intervention tailored for adolescents using the intervention mapping framework.

Findings

Adolescents had significant knowledge gaps and misconceptions about endocrine disruptors.

Six performance objectives were established to address attitudes, knowledge, and skills related to EDs.

Fifteen educational tools were developed to support the program's goals.

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are substances that interfere with the endocrine system, posing risks to health across various life stages, particularly during adolescence when hormonal changes are pronounced. Despite the recognition of adolescents as vulnerable, there have been few interventions targeting their exposure to EDs. This study developed the COPE ADOS program using the intervention mapping (IM) framework to enhance adolescents’ knowledge and skills in identifying and mitigating exposure to EDs. The IM framework guided the creation of the program through four steps: conducting a needs assessment, formulating program objectives, selecting relevant behavioral theories, and developing a logical model. The need assessment conducted through focus groups revealed significant knowledge gaps and misconceptions about EDs among adolescents, leading to the establishment of six performance objectives aimed at addressing attitude, knowledge, risk perception, self-efficacy, and skills. As a result, 15 educational tools were created. The COPE ADOS program represents a novel, collaborative effort tailored to the needs of students and demonstrates the potential of the IM framework in developing effective health interventions for adolescents. Future research should evaluate the impact of this program on reducing ED exposure among high school students.