Some thoughts in response to Jiri's concerns about evidence-based health
promotion...
        I think that it is of prime importance that the goals and objectives of
the program be clearly identified and that the evaluation strategies be
carefully designed to assess the achievement of these.  Too often
investigators just go on a fishing expedition and focus their report
around any signficant findings they can come up with, even though these
may have any relationship to the goals and objectives.
        Working in the area of weight concerns, my pet peeves include
reports that fail to consider long term effects and those that ignor
their dropouts.
        If we are going to offer programs to meet diverse needs, we are
probably stuck with reliance on small convenience samples and cas
studies.  These can be useful if one is stringent in generalizing,
limiting this to groups/individuals with similar characteristics.  It is
also essential that observations be carefully and consistently made.
Once again, we must insist that the outcomes for all who started the
program be reported.  Often it is only this kind of study that can
provide the long term data that is needed.
        I'll be interested in seeing other comments on evidence-based
promotions. Ellen

Ellen S. Parham, PhD, Rd
Coordinator, Dietetics, Nutrition, and Food Systems
Department of Human and Family Resources
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, Illinois 60115-2854
815-753-6333   FAX 815-753-1321   [log in to unmask]