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Temporal Trends in Physical Activity: A Systematic Review
Abstract
In spite of all accumulated scientific knowledge on the benefits of physical activity (PA) for health, high rates of sedentary lifestyle are still observed worldwide. The aim of this study was to systematically review articles on temporal trends of PA and fitness, with emphasis on differences between children/ adolescents and adults.
An electronic search at the Medline/PubMed database was carried out using the following combination of keywords: temporal trends or trends or surveillance or monitoring and PA or exercise or physical fitness or motor activity or sedentary or fitness.
By using this strategy, 23,088 manuscripts were detected. After examination, 41 articles fulfilled all inclusion criteria, and were, therefore, included. The data currently available in the literature for adults shows that leisure-time activity levels tend to be increasing over time, while occupational-related PA is decreasing over time. Youth PA seems to be decreasing over time, including a lower level of activity in physical education classes. As a consequence, fitness levels are also declining.
PA surveillance must be strongly encouraged in all settings and age groups. Special attention must be paid to low and middle-income countries, where PA surveillance is virtually inexistent.
... Most studies examined the prevalence of physical activity (PA) at one time point (e.g., Kee et al., 2018;Wang et al., 2006). There are a few studies that examined the trends of PA across time (see Congeri et al., 2022;Grao-Cruces et al., 2020;Knuth & Hallal, 2009) or SB across time (e.g., Cui et al., 2011;Velázquez-Romero et al., 2021). However, very few studies have examined the temporal trends of PA and SB together. ...
... Studies that examined temporal trends in PA generally found that PA declined over time in adolescents (Adams, 2006;Congeri et al., 2022;2006;Grao-Cruces et al., 2020;Knuth & Hallal, 2009). Knuth and Hallal (2009) conducted a systematic review of 41 articles for studies up to 2004 and found only nine studies were on temporal trends of PA in children and adolescents. ...
... Studies that examined temporal trends in PA generally found that PA declined over time in adolescents (Adams, 2006;Congeri et al., 2022;2006;Grao-Cruces et al., 2020;Knuth & Hallal, 2009). Knuth and Hallal (2009) conducted a systematic review of 41 articles for studies up to 2004 and found only nine studies were on temporal trends of PA in children and adolescents. The outcomes evaluated also varied widely among studies. ...
... Teniendo en cuenta que la reducción de la AF en el ámbito laboral es inherente al propio desarrollo tecnológico, la importancia de la AF durante el tiempo libre adquiere un carácter más relevante de cara a poder aumentar la AF total. En este ámbito, una revisión sistemática (Knuth et al., 2009) mostró que el tiempo de práctica de AF durante el tiempo libre se ha incrementado durante los últimos 20-30 años en 5 países con un nivel de ingresos elevados (a diferencia de los datos encontrados por Shu Wen, (2012), mientras que la AF durante el trabajo ha disminuido. Estos resultados parecen ser consistentes y coinciden con otros estudios realizados en países como Inglaterra, Canadá (Juneau, 2010), Suecia (Ng, 2011) y España (Palacios-Ceña, 2011. ...
... Los datos que se conocen son menos concluyentes que en adultos respecto a la evolución en los patrones de AF. Una revisión sistemática (Knuth, 2009) de estudios de 5 países con ingresos elevados estableció que la AF durante las clases de Educación Física habían disminuido desde los años 90. Por otro lado, un estudio en EEUU (Iannotti, 2013) utilizó la encuesta HBSC para recoger los datos sobre práctica de AF y encontró que durante el periodo estudiado (2001)(2002)(2003)(2004)(2005)(2006)(2007)(2008)(2009)) hubo un aumento significativo del número de días en que los participantes realizaban los 60 minutos diarios de AF recomendados (que se citan de forma resumida como 60 minutos de actividad física de moderada a vigorosa, MVPA), acompañado también de un aumento en el consumo diario de frutas y verduras. ...
Sucesivos estudios, cada vez con mejores diseños y tratamientos estadísticos, han confirmado las ventajas de la dieta
mediterránea como factor protector ante la enfermedad cardiovascular. En estos estudios, que tuvieron como objetivo
evaluar el papel protector de la dieta mediterránea frente a
otros patrones de alimentación, no se tuvo en cuenta la variable ‘actividad física’. Sin embargo, se trata esencialmente
de un estilo de vida y el estudio de sus efectos requiere de
la consideración simultánea de otros factores conductuales
no dietéticos. Entre ellos, la actividad física debería jugar un
papel igual de importante que los patrones alimentarios, ya
que la evidencia es contundente respecto al papel que juega
como factor determinante de una buena salud. Las personas más activas son también las que siguen una dieta más saludable, por lo que las acciones encaminadas a mejorar
cualquiera de estos factores va a afectar al otro. A continuación se presentan resumidos los principales beneficios que la práctica regular de ejercicio tiene en la población y los costes de la inactividad en términos de salud.
... In addition, another reason is that opportunities for physical activity, especially active transportation, may have decreased in recent decades. A school-based study in 146 countries found that insufficient physical activity decreased among adolescent boys but showed no change among adolescent girls [66][67][68]. In the meantime, the use and exposure of today's generation to sedentary behaviors such as watching TV, long-term use of electronic devices, etc., have increased. ...
Background
The present umbrella systematic reviews and meta-analyses aim to determine the comprehensive prevalence of obesity and overweight across different age subgroups in Iran.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive search across many databases, including Science Direct, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar, to retrieve papers published until November 2023. The meta-analyses included in this study examined the prevalence of obesity and overweight in Iran. The current umbrella meta-analysis finally contained 24 meta-analyses. We evaluated the scientific reliability of the studies using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR2).
Results
The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity among the Iranian population was 18.38% (95% CI: 10.267, 26.496) and 10.91% (95% CI: 9.654, 12.177), respectively. The overall obesity prevalence in males was 9.93 (95%CI: 8.483, 11.388), and in females was 9.67% (95%CI: 8.317, 11.033). The prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents was 12.43% (95% CI: 10.184, 14.683) and 6.51% (95% CI: 5.866, 7.157), and in adults, it was 27.39% (95% CI: 14.878, 39.914) and 17.20% (95% CI: 13.483, 20.919), respectively. Male children and adolescents had a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity than females, but adult males had a lower prevalence than females.
Conclusion
This study presents the trend of obesity and overweight among the Iranian population. Since the trend of increasing overweight and obesity is alarming, policymakers and healthcare providers at the national and regional levels should design and implement preventive programs and interventions.
... On the other hand, recently a growing debate has been observed about the relationship of physical activity, motor coordination, and cognitive development (Niederer et al., 2011), given the decrease in physical activity among young people (Knuth & Hallal, 2009) and the pressure from society (school and parents) for school performance (Chomitz et al., 2009). ...
A developmental disorder can be reflected in the subject’s motricity, which justifies the qualitative observation of movement aimed at screening and even diagnosing disabilities and developmental disorders. However, adolescents with low school performance show unusual motor manifestations not observed in the general population and that do not necessarily reveal themselves in motor or functional skills, but in the quality and proportion of the movement in relation to the act. Based on the scarce literature on this phenomenon, this article aims to address the construct that we call motor gesture, contributing to a reflection in the field of Physical Education, aiming to improve its technical, scientific and pedagogical processes for the inclusion of the studied population.
... As pessoas com deficiência, apesar de todas as dificuldades que ainda enfrentam para serem incluídas e aceitas sem preconceito e discriminação na sociedade, já têm seus direitos garantidos pela Lei Brasileira de Inclusão(Brasil, 2015).O perfil dos adolescentes que compõem a população de nossa discussão se assemelha ao dos sujeitos com DI, sobretudo no contexto dos déficits no funcionamento intelectual, ao nível da aprendizagem acadêmica (American Psychiatric Association, 2013), guardando semelhança também com o funcionamento intelectual limítrofe, que, assim como a DI em seus vários níveis, reflete também o baixo desempenho acadêmico e, no contexto do desenvolvimento motor, o baixo desempenho na proficiência motora em crianças em idade escolar(Jeoung, 2018). As semelhanças entre o perfil do adolescente abordado e as referidas condições desenvolvimentais podem ir além do fenótipo observável, pois, assim como o funcionamento intelectual limítrofe tende a ser quase invisível no campo da pesquisa, ignorado pela sociedade e despercebido no meio clínico pela falta de treino específico dos profissionais de saúde para reconhecê-lo(Peltopuro et al., 2014;Wieland & Zitman, 2016), o fenômeno em questão pode caracterizar um adolescente nas mesmas condições.Por outro lado, recentemente, parece que tem crescido o debate sobre as relações entre atividade física, coordenação motora e desenvolvimento cognitivo(Niederer et al., 2011), dada a diminuição da atividade física juvenil(Knuth & Hallal, 2009) e a pressão da sociedade (escola e pais) pelo desempenho escolar(Chomitz et al., 2009). A relação entre a coordenação, precisão Apesar das evidências da associação entre desempenho motor e desempenho acadêmico, no Brasil, esse tema carece ainda de aprofundamento, dadas as repercussões na vida dos estudantes, tanto ao nível das habilidades motoras propriamente ditas quanto do desempenho escolar, sendo ainda mais escassa a evidência sobre a análise da qualidade do informação útil no âmbito do planejamento da atividade física e da maior atenção ao desempenho motor, não só no sentido de aprimorar currículos de educação física escolar, com impacto na aprendizagem acadêmica(Lopes et al., 2013).Utley, 2006), o que foge dos padrões de avaliação motora tradicional e exige métodos próprios.Na indisponibilidade de instrumentos que atendam às nossas expectativas, acreditamos que o primeiro passo para o aprofundamento do debate e maior compreensão do fenômeno como a propriocepção, além de variáveis como a cadência, a velocidade e o ângulo das articulações durante a atividade(Smith et al., 2021). ...
Resumo Um transtorno do desenvolvimento pode ser refletido na motricidade do sujeito, o que justifica a observação qualitativa do movimento visando ao despiste e até mesmo ao diagnóstico de deficiências e transtornos do desenvolvimento. Apesar disso, adolescentes com baixo desempenho escolar aparentam manifestações motoras incomuns a pessoas típicas e que não se revelam, necessariamente, em habilidades motoras ou funcionais, mas na qualidade e na proporção do movimento em relação ao ato. Com base na escassez de evidências sobre esse fenômeno, este artigo objetiva abordar o construto que aqui denominamos gesto motor, contribuindo para uma reflexão no âmbito da educação física, visando ao aprimoramento de seus processos técnicos, científicos e pedagógicos para a inclusão da população aqui retratada.
... The deterioration in PF among children and adolescents can largely be attributed to an increase in sedentary behavior and a reduction in engagement with physical activity (PA) [12]. During childhood and adolescence, particularly throughout school years, PA is positively correlated with PF metrics [13,14], demonstrating benefits such as reduced cardiometabolic risk, decreased fat accumulation, and enhanced muscular and skeletal health. ...
Background
Understanding the impact of environmental factors on physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF) is crucial for promoting a healthy lifestyle among children and adolescents. This study examines how awareness of sports policies, school, family, and community environments influence PA and PF in Chinese youth.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 2747 children and adolescents (mean age 12.90 ± 2.49; 48.2% male) from 17 schools across five Chinese cities. Environmental factors were assessed via questionnaires, and PA levels were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). PF metrics, including BMI, waist-to-height ratio, grip strength, vertical jump, and 20-m shuttle run test (20-mSRT), were measured onsite. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to explore relationships between environmental factors and PA/PF outcomes.
Results
The school environment scored highest (78.0 ± 9.5), while the community environment scored lowest (38.7 ± 18.0). Family environment positively influenced low-intensity PA (LPA) (β = 0.102, P < 0.001) but negatively affected moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) (β = -0.055, P = 0.035). Community environment and awareness of sports policies positively impacted MVPA (β = 0.216, P < 0.001; β = 0.072, P = 0.009, respectively). Family environment positively influenced BMI reduction (β = -0.103, P < 0.001) but negatively affected grip strength (β = -0.063, P = 0.018). Community environment improved grip strength and 20-mSRT performance (β = 0.088, P = 0.002; β = 0.065, P = 0.027).
Conclusions
School environments, despite high scores, do not significantly impact PA and PF. Community environments, though scoring lower, positively affect MVPA, grip strength, and 20-mSRT. Awareness of sports policies boosts MVPA, while family environments support LPA and BMI but are inversely related to MVPA and grip strength. Integrated strategies involving community infrastructure, family support, and policy awareness are essential for promoting active lifestyles among children and adolescents.
... These have remained unchanged for almost two centuries, since first proposed by Astley Cooper in 1844 [18], despite changes in population health, work practices, and leisure pursuits. Machines have largely replaced humans for heavy lifting [19][20][21]. Family medicine has improved dramatically resulting in earlier, and more efficient, medical interventions for intestinal, prostatic, and pulmonary risk factors [22,23]. While obesity has been historically associated with hernia development, recent literature suggests that high BMI actually exerts a protective effect against hernia development [24][25][26]. ...
Background
Despite significant changes in healthcare, work practices, and leisure activity, the proposed precipitating factors for abdominal wall hernias have remained largely unchanged for almost two centuries. We aimed to investigate if there have been shifts in these factors over time by examining patients’ perception of precipitating factors for abdominal wall hernia development. This study was conducted in the Royal College of Surgeons In Ireland Department of Surgery, Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin, where patients with abdominal wall hernias completed a questionnaire .
Results
A total of 277 patients (mean age 55.7; 85.6% male) with abdominal wall hernia completed the questionnaire (66.1% inguinal; 10.8% umbilical; 6.9% paraumbilical; 10.5% epigastric; 3.2% incisional; 1.4% femoral, and 1.1% port-site). One hundred and twenty patients (43.3%) believed their hernia was due to lifting, 71 (25.6%) cited gym activity and 17 (6.1%) cited other sporting activities as the precipitating factor. Traditional factors – chronic cough and constipation - were cumulatively cited only by 11 patients (4.0%), while prostatic obstruction was not cited by any.
Conclusion
This study suggests that fitness pursuits may be an increasing contributor to the development of abdominal wall hernia. Greater attention should be paid to the proper use of gym equipment to minimise the risk of hernia development.
... A higher HDI often correlates with superior health conditions and, by extension, a more physically active population [32]. European countries, such as Spain, have a very high HDI (0.904) and a gross domestic product of approximately USD 1.4 trillion [31], and they tend to show better levels of PD, which is influenced by widespread availability of sports facilities, health policies, and a stronger social emphasis on physical activity, leading to more active participation in maintaining a healthy lifestyle [33]. In contrast, many Latin American countries, such as Ecuador, despite having a high HDI (0.740) and a gross domestic product (nominal) of approximately $105 billion USD [31], face disparities in access to health care and sporting resources, leading to significant variations in the overall fitness levels of their popula-tions [34]. ...
Objective: To comp+are levels of physical fitness between Ecuador and Spain and identify whether breastfeeding period, walking onset, and abdominal obesity are determinants of physical performance in schoolchildren from Ecuador and Spain. Methods: a total of 352 schoolchildren (6–12 years old) from Ecuador (n = 176) and Spain (n = 176) joined in this study. Anthropometric measures, socio-demographic characteristics, and physical fitness were evaluated. Results: Spanish schoolchildren showed better performance in handgrip strength, standing long jump, and 25 m sprint (p = 0.021; p < 0.001; p < 0.001; p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, Spanish children showed better cardiorespiratory fitness (p < 0.001) and a higher VO2 max (p = 0.002) with regards to their peers. In addition, children from Ecuador and Spain showed an influence of breastfeeding period (p ranged from <0.001 to 0.043) and walking onset (p ranged from <0.001 to 0.032) on physical performance. Moreover, physical fitness components were protective factors of abdominal obesity in Ecuadorian and Spanish schoolchildren (p ranged from =0.001 to 0.049). Conclusions: Our findings revealed the influence of the infancy period and the onset of walking on children’s physical performance, highlighting the importance of these factors in motor development during early childhood and also their influence in middle childhood and throughout adulthood.
... Previous literature has explored the changing trends in PA and RST amongst children and adolescents. On one hand, studies by Ng et al. and Knuth et al. found due to lifestyle changes, PA amongst children and adolescents over the last few decades have decreased significantly [17,18]. Moreover, research conducted in the United States and China showed a global increasing trend in RST amongst children and adolescents due to widespread screen consumption [19,20]. ...
Background
The prevalence of physical inactivity and sedentary behavior among children and adolescents is a growing public health concern. This study aims to examine the trends in Physical Activity (PA) and Recreational Screen Time (RST) amongst children and adolescents in China, considering variations in genders, school levels, areas (urban versus rural), and regions (north versus south). The findings provide a foundation to guide policy and strategy making for future health promotion and development.
Methods
An annual national cross-sectional survey was conducted in China from 2017 to 2019 cumulatively involving 52,503 (48% female) children and adolescents from grades 4 to 12 (aged 12.72 ± 2.12). Data on PA and RST were collected through self-administered questionnaires. Weighted least squares regression was used to analyze the trends and differences in PA and RST among the participants’ profiles.
Results
There was an annual decreased in PA compliance rate of approximately 3.43% (95% CI: 0.79-6.08%) for primary school students, primarily among males residing in rural areas, and in northern regions. Middle school students experienced a yearly decrease of about 5.23% (95% CI: 2.55-7.92%) in PA compliance across all genders, regions, and urban areas. Similarly, the RST compliance rates for primary school students declined by approximately 3.18% (95% CI: 1.57-4.78%) annually for all genders and areas, but only in the northern regions.
Conclusions
This research highlights a downward trend in PA and RST compliance amongst Chinese children and adolescents, with variations based on school level, gender, area, and region. Urgent policies and interventions are imperative to promote PA while mitigating excessive RST within these populations.
... For instance, higher levels of sedentary behaviors during work hours; an increased inactive transportation (driving in a car, buses, trains) and high amount of time spent in screen-based leisure activities has been found in high-income nations. [7,14] In contrast, people living in middle-and low-income countries, spend more time engaged in active occupational activities, household chores, which may contribute to reduced time spend in sedentary behaviors [15]. Furthermore, population living in middle-income countries, such as Mexico, tends to have higher rates of active transportation time due to lower rates of personal automobile ownership [16,17] What has received little to no attention are the effects of migration on sedentary behaviors in 5population migrating from less industrialized to more industrialized nations (i.e., Mexican individuals moving from Mexico to the U.S.). ...
Introduction: This study examined differences in sedentary behaviors among Mexicans living in Mexico, Mexican immigrants in the United States (U.S.) and U.S. born Mexican-Americans.
... Además, hay indicios de que en distintas partes del mundo la población infantil y juvenil realizaba diversas actividades físicas como parte principal de su tiempo libre (juegos al aire libre, ciclismo, entre otros). Sin embargo, esta generación es la menos activa físicamente a nivel poblacional entre las diferentes generaciones de adultos, además de ser la más sedentaria (Knuth & Hallal, 2009). ...
Resumen. El objetivo del estudio fue revisar en la literatura cuáles son las barreras socioculturales y de género para la práctica de actividad física de niños y adolescentes y como pueden influir en el desarrollo de un estilo de vida activo. Se realizó una scoping review para ofrecer una visión exploratoria de la literatura y se llevó a cabo utilizando las bases de datos electrónicas: PubMed, SciELO, Web of Science y Scopus. Se incluyeron estudios publicados entre 2000-2023 en español, inglés o portugués realizados en niños y/o adoles-centes (de 6 hasta 17 años) que ofrecían información relevante sobre actividad física en niños y/o adolescentes; con una muestra solo de niñas, solo de niños o de ambos; estudios de revisión (metaanálisis o scoping), originales (transversales, prospectivos, intervenciones y longitudinales); y estudios que presenten una discusión sobre las barreras para la práctica de actividad física, sea en sus resultados o discusión con la literatura. Los artículos revisados sugieren una reorientación de enfoques educativos y políticos; un apoyo familiar especialmente de las madres, en la promoción de la actividad física; y una consideración para romper con los estereotipos de género en el entorno escolar.
... In addition, there has been a notable decrease in total daily PA over the last decades, which is of concern as regular PA is associated with many health benefits [9]. The decrease in PA levels can be explained by the reduction in activities performed at home, reduction in occupational PA levels, change in transportation patterns in urban areas, and increase in time spent in sedentary activities due to advances in technology [10][11][12][13]. ...
Background: Studies evaluating physical activity (PA) levels in individuals with Chagas disease (CD) are still scarce. The present study aimed to evaluate PA levels in CD individuals and examine their association with Chagas heart disease (ChHD). Methods: We included patients with CD regularly followed in a reference center for treatment of infectious diseases. PA levels were assessed using the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). ChHD was determined following the Brazilian Consensus on Chagas Disease. The association between ChHD and levels of PA (total, walking, moderate, and vigorous) as a continuous variable was fitted using generalized linear models. Logistic regression models were fitted to evaluate the association between ChHD and meeting WHO's PA recommendations. Results: Among the 361 participants included in the analysis (60.7 ± 10.7 years; 56.2 % women), 58.1 % (n = 210) complied with the WHO's PA recommendations. After adjustments for potential confounders, regression analyses revealed that ChHD without heart failure was significantly associated with reduced vigorous PA (Exp β 0.32 95 % CI 0.10 to 0.98). ChHD with heart failure had significantly lower levels of total (Exp β 0.61 95 % CI 0.44 to 0.84) and moderate (Exp β 0.59 95 % CI 0.39 to 0.89) PA. ChHD with heart failure had a lower odd of meeting the PA recommendation in comparison to those with no cardiac involvement (OR 0.48 95 % CI 0.24 to 0.97). Conclusions: We found low levels of PA among individuals with CD. Presence of ChHD (mainly with HF) was associated with decreased levels of PA.
... The deterioration in PF among children and adolescents can largely be attributed to an increase in sedentary behavior and a reduction in engagement with physical activity (PA) (10). During childhood and adolescence, particularly throughout school years, PA is positively correlated with PF metrics (11,12), demonstrating bene ts such as reduced cardiometabolic risk, decreased fat accumulation, and enhanced muscular and skeletal health. ...
Background: Investigating environmental factors' impact on youth physical activity (PA) and fitness (PF) is crucial for healthy lifestyle promotion. This study examines policy, school, family, and community influences on Chinese children and adolescents' PA and PF.
Methods: In a cross-sectional analysis involving 2,747 Chinese children and adolescents (mean age 12.90 ± 2.49; 48.2% male) from 17 schools, environmental factors—policy, school, family, and community—were assessed through questionnaires, while PA levels were gauged using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. PF metrics—BMI, waist-to-height ratio, grip strength, vertical jump, and 20-mSRT—were measured onsite. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) explored relationships between environmental influences and PA/PF outcomes.
Results: School environment ranked highest (78.0±9.5), with community environment lowest (38.7±18.0). Family environment significantly positively influenced low-intensity PA (LPA) (β=0.102, P<0.001) but negative effect on moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) (β=-0.055, P=0.035). Community and policy environment positively impacted MVPA (β=0.216, P<0.001; β=0.072, P=0.009, respectively). Family environment positively affected BMI reduction (β=-0.103, P<0.001) but negatively grip strength (β=-0.063, P=0.018). Community environment significantly improved grip strength and 20-mSRT performance (β=0.088, P=0.002; β=0.065, P=0.027).
Conclusions: This study reveals that policy environment directly and positively influence MVPA among Chinese youth. Although school environment score highest, they show no significant association with PA or PF. Family environment is conducive to LPA but inversely related to MVPA, while positively impacting BMI reduction and negatively affecting grip strength development. In contrast, community environment, despite scoring the lowest, positively affect MVPA, grip strength, and 20-mSRT outcomes. This study emphasizes the importance of policy, family, and community environments in influencing youth PA and PF, advocating for the improvement of community sports infrastructure and the promotion of MVPA benefits within families.
... While participating in sports is not only a basic human right, but promoting and developing sports also leads to having a happy society, improving social security, supporting development, achieving social justice, strengthening physical fitness, and improving public health. Considering that international efforts to increase sports activity in adult or youth populations have been reported (Knuth & Hallal, 2009;Macera & Pratt, 2000;Sisson & Katzmarzyk, 2008;Stamatakis et al., 2007). According to Paudel et al., (2021) the elderly's participation in leisure-time physical exercise was at a bare minimum, and their leisure time was largely spent relaxing, socializing, or undertaking sedentary activities like watching TV. ...
Regular exercise and physical activity have great benefits for the elderly, and promoting physical activity among this population helps to maintain their basic functions and health. This study aimed to investigate the impact of exercise as a supplement on the quality of life of elderly men residing in the Maku Free Zone. The elderly participants were divided into an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG). The experimental group underwent a 12-session exercise program, involving 65 minutes of exercise per week, while the control group was placed on a waiting list for two months. Information was collected using a quality of life questionnaire (EQ-5D), and the research data were analyzed using ANOVA. The results revealed that the experimental group (EG) exhibited better scores on quality of life measures compared to the control group (CG). Mobility emerged as the dimension most independently correlated with exercise participation. In light of these findings, relevant authorities should take decisive action to create environments that promote participation in sports and lifelong physical activity for the elderly.
... The framework that emerges is certainly complex and trends do not always show similarities; sometimes, the data even diverge from the scientific literature. Research focusing on the coordination of school-age children seems to show a sharp deterioration in the quality and quantity of movement skills in school-age children, associated with a general decline in levels of daily physical activity in childhood [60,61], but further data are needed to identify a decisive trend [62]. ...
This paper aims to analyse studies and research conducted in EU and non-EU member states to identify and compare trends in physical activity and motor skills. Thus, a comparative overview of the state of the art in the two pre-pandemic decades that can facilitate an understanding of the different territorial realities and training needs to be conducted, considering the different cultural situations. A scoping review was conducted by analysing a series of studies published between 1990 and 2022, including only those studies that collected data in the pre-pandemic period. The search was carried out on databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. The following keywords were used for the acquisition of relevant studies: children, decline, motor skills, physical activity, and young people. From the literature review emerged clearly in all the longitudinal surveys a negative trend of body mass index (BMI), which was increasing in all the countries analysed, and cardiorespiratory fitness, which, in close relation to the increase in overweight levels, was in decline. If an unambiguous trend could be declared for the variables just mentioned, it was not possible to declare the same trend for the other variables analysed, which showed discordant results between the different countries.
... Two separate studies examining bank employees in Nigeria and Ghana reported a prevalence of physical inactivity of 60% and 82%, respectively [68,69]. In this regard, a general trend of higher physical inactivity prevalence in females compared to males has also been reported [69][70][71]. An investigation on barriers to adopting healthy behaviors highlighted inadequate time for exercise as a major reason for the recent high levels of physical inactivity [72]. ...
Background and Objectives: Despite the importance of nutritional status and a healthy lifestyle in shaping overall well-being, little is known about examining gender-specific differences and trends in health, lifestyle, and nutritional status. The present study aimed to evaluate blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10, as well as physical activity (PA) levels and sedentary behavior, among a cohort of Austrian bank staff, with a particular focus on identifying gender differences as well as gender-specific nutritional deficiencies compared to the reference ranges.
Materials and Methods: Following a cross-sectional study design, 123 Austrian bank staff (mean age: 43 years; 51% females) participated in this study. Blood samples were collected to evaluate participants' micronutrient status and serum levels of homocysteine and CoQ10. Whole-blood values of macronutrients were compared to gender-specific reference ranges and categorized into three groups: below, within, or over the range. The WHO's Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess PA levels and sedentary behaviors.
Results: No significant difference between males and females was found for diet types, PA levels, sedentary time, homocysteine levels, or CoQ10 values (p > 0.05). A high PA level was reported by 64% of males and 58% of females. 71% of females and 56% of males were found to have a vitamin D deficiency. 63-98% of females and 72-97% of males showed normal blood levels for the remaining micronutrients, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, selenium, manganese, molybdenum, B6, B9, and B12.
Conclusions: The findings highlight the necessity of implementing tailored strategies to foster healthy lifestyle behaviors, thereby enhancing the overall state of health, particularly in the context of occupational health.
... An alternate explanation may be that natural fluctuations in physical activity and sitting time over time (e.g., with age, activity domains; Knuth and Hallal, 2009), in combination with the episodic nature of depression, may complicate associations with RNT and emotion regulation difficulties over time. For example, contextual factors (e.g., weather patterns, number and scale of emotional events) may lead to extensive variation in small-scale associations, rendering large-scale patterns unobservable within the longer timeframe of the current study. ...
... PF has been reported to be an important issue from a public health perspective and has been found to be associated with various health related outcomes, including cardiovascular diseases, mental health, and skeletal health [2]. A decline in the levels of PF among both adults and adolescents has been observed over recent years [3][4][5]. It is also hypothesized that childhood PF is a predictor of PF in adulthood, which is a risk factor of cardiovascular diseases [6,7]. ...
Introduction
Health-related physical fitness, which includes body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular endurance, flexibility, power, and strength are associated with risks of chronic diseases and promote good health and wellness. There have been reports of increasing levels of physical inactivity among children and adolescents, leading to increasing rates of obesity and decreased physical fitness. The present study was conducted among school going adolescents to estimate the levels and correlates of PF for timely intervention.
Methodology
School based cross-sectional study was done among students of class 8-11th in Government schools of Garhwal division of Uttarakhand. Multistage stratified random sampling was applied for recruitment of study participants. We recruited a final sample size of 634 students. Validated questionnaires and standard methods for assessment of physical fitness, physical activity levels and other variables such as waist circumference, hip circumference, BMI and hemoglobin estimation were done.
Results
Average and above average cardiorespiratory fitness score as per Harvard step test among boys (54.3%) was significantly higher as compared to girls (21.3%) (χ2 = 88.93, p < 0.001). There was a significant association between gender and dominant handgrip strength (χ2 = 8.02, p = 0.01) as well as between gender and Shoulder stretch test (SST) of dominant (χ2 = 17.5, p < 0.05) as well as nondominant arm (χ2 = 13.5, p < 0.05). Sit and reach test results also showed a significant association with gender (χ2 = 27.17, p < 0.001). Gender, hemoglobin level, BMI and PAL scores significantly predicted cardiorespiratory fitness scores (R2 = 0.188, F value of the model = 37.69, p =< 0.001)).
Conclusion
Physical fitness of school going adolescents in Garhwal division of Uttarakhand was better than other parts of India, with significant gender differences. Physical activity levels (PAL) were poor and are also a significant predictor of physical fitness. More emphasis needs to be paid on the health and fitness of girl students. School based policies to increase PAL among students through innovation and rewards may go a long way in improving the long-term health of the students.
... Global standards state that children and adolescents should partake in 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity (World Health Organization-WHO, 2010). Youth physical activity is, however, declining with the passage of time (WHO, 2010;Knuth and Hallal, 2009), and it has been widely acknowledged that physical inactivity is one of the largest public health issues of the twenty-first century (Blair, 2009). ...
Physical activity and academic achievement are considered significant determinants of economic growth development. Research has shown that university students' physical activity and academic performance are strongly correlated. The purpose of this study is to use bibliometric analysis to investigate the connection between students' physical activity and academic achievement. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework served as the fundamental basis for this investigation. Using the program for visualizing similarities (Vosviewer), this study includes research executed throughout the period from 2011 to 2021. In 2021, a total of 1263 research articles that were included in the Scopus database were examined, deciding which journal articles are the most interesting. The study findings selected the most relevant research subjects concerning physical activity and academic achievement. These are (1) physical activities, (2) academic achievement, and (3) academic performance.
Keywords: A bibliometric analysis, Academic achievement, Physical activities, PRISMA, Scopus database.
... Studies have shown that only 37% of young adults participated in 60 minutes of (MVPA) daily, with 59% involved at moderate levels, 3.8% involved in low levels, and 72% participated in PA at least once in a month (Odunaiya et al. 2010, Adeniyi et al. 2011, Senbanjo and Oshikoya 2010. This declining level of PA in the country and the world can be linked to recent technological advancements, modern lifestyles, automation of daily activities, motorization, urbanization, and unhealthy diets, which enhance sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy behaviors, and underline the necessity to address the growing malaise of physical inactivity (Knuth and Hallal 2009, Institute of Medicine 2013, Onyiriuka et al. 2016. ...
It is alarming that despite the numerous accrued benefits of physical activity participation, many young adults in tertiary institutions engage in inactive and sedentary lifestyles, which can be linked to many cases of morbidity and mortality. However, according to the self-determination theory (SDT), individuals have three basic psychological needs (BPNs) that are essential for healthy growth, development and well-being. The necessity to fulfill these BPN’s can stimulate and encourage young adults to engage in regular physical activity and enhance their well-being. Therefore, this study examined the role of BPN’s in predicting physical activity participation among young adults in Nigerian private university. A total of 735 students, comprising 408 males (55.5%) and 327 females (44.5%), with ages ranging from 16 to 35 years (mean = 22.8; SD = 5.42), were randomly selected from a private university in the South-west, of Nigeria. The Basic Psychological Needs in Exercise Scale (BPNES) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF) were used to collect data. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, correlation and multiple linear regression analysis. The results of the study showed that the BPN’s of autonomy (r =0.233, p<0.05); competence (r =0.188, p < 0.05), and relatedness (r = 0.477, p<0.05) positively correlated with physical activity participation. Additionally, the results found that 25% had low, 57.1% had moderate and 17.8% had high levels of physical activity participation among the participants. There was a significant gender difference between males and females’ in their levels of participation in physical activity (t =2.866, p < 0.05), with males reporting higher mean scores than their female counterpart. Regression analysis showed that BPN’s predicted physical activity participation among young adults (F (3,731) = 73.968, p < 0.05) with 23% of its variance accounted for by the independent variables. Furthermore, autonomy (ß = 0.071, t = 1.970, p < 0.05) and relatedness (ß = 0.478, t =12.589, p < 0.05) were predictors of physical activity participation with relatedness being reported as the most potent predictor. These findings provide an insight into focus the importance of satisfying the relatedness and autonomy aspects of BPN’s in young adults. Developing interventions that target these identified indices can promote continuous and regular participation in physical activity. Keywords: basic psychological needs, relatedness, autonomy, physical activity, young adults
... Physical inactivity has increased over the years, mainly because occupations have become more sedentary (Knuth & Hallal, 2009) and commuting to work is mostly (77%) done by passive means of transport (e.g., driving) (Brownson, Boehmer, & Luke, 2005;Herman & Larouche, 2021). People spend an average of five to 9 h sitting per day, while 10 h of sitting is associated with 34% higher risk of all-cause mortality (Chau et al., 2013). ...
Current evidence on neighborhood walkability and active commuting focuses on residential rather than workplace environment. This cross-sectional study investigated whether higher workplace walkability (WW) was associated with commute walking, both independently and together with residential walkability, using data from 6769 respondents of the 2017 Dutch national travel survey. In a fully adjusted logistic regression model, 10% increase in WW was associated with 32% higher odds of commute walking (Odds ratio (OR): 1.31, 95% Confidence Interval (CI: 1.27–1.36). The estimates were stronger in rural dwellers than urban residents, (ORrural 1.49, 95%CI: 1.34–1.64 vs ORhighly.urban 1.19, 95%CI: 1.13–1.26). In participants with both high residential walkability and WW, we observed 215% higher odds (OR 3.15, 95% CI: 2.48–3.99) of commute walking compared to those with low walkability in both. Our study indicated the importance and complementary nature of walkable residence and workplace in contribution to physical activity of working individuals through active commuting.
... Less than one-third of European children and adolescents reach recommended levels of physical activity [46]. The trend in levels of physical activity between the mid-1980s to the early 2000s among European adolescents has remained more or less stable [47]. In high-income countries, levels of physical activity tend to be lower among low versus high SEP groups, especially for leisure time or sportsrelated physical activity [48][49][50][51]. ...
Purpose of Review
To review the upstream determinants of overweight and obesity in Europe, including food and built environments, and political, commercial, and socioeconomic determinants.
Recent Findings
Overweight and obesity affect 60% of European adults, and one in three children, and are more common in individuals with low compared to high socioeconomic position (SEP). Individuals in low SEP groups are more exposed to unhealthy built and food environments, including higher exposure to unhealthy food marketing. Industries influencing the food system have much economic power, resulting in ignoring or silencing the role of ultra-processed foods and commercial practices in weight gain. Overall, effective policies to address overweight and obesity have been insufficiently implemented by governments.
Summary
To accelerate implementation, strengthened political commitment is essential. Policies must also focus on the upstream, structural, and systemic drivers of overweight and obesity; be comprehensive; and target socioeconomic inequalities in diets and physical activity.
... potions sizes [18][19][20] and eating frequency [21][22][23] as well as reduced physical activity [24][25][26] are among the most notable trends. This has coincided with an increase in noncommunicable diseases linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. ...
Purpose and methods
This summary is based on a scientific symposium organized by the Mediterranean Diet Roundtable and the American Italian Food Coalition titled, ‘Positive Nutrition: shifting focus from nutrients to diet for a healthy lifestyle.’ It was held at the Embassy of Italy in Washington DC in September of 2022. The panel of experts discussed how science can inform policy, what insights may be gleaned from different countries’ approaches to healthy eating and what principles of the Mediterranean diet will inform strategies for a healthy future. Recognizing that isolated actions have limited impact on the complex relationship between diet and obesity, the panel discussed the importance of a system approach. In particular, the panel emphasized that focusing on single ingredients, isolated food categories and narrow approaches to policy have had limited success across the globe.
Results and conclusion
The panel agreed that there is a need for change of perspective that embraces complexity and emphasizes more positive nutrition messaging and policies.
Level of evidence: V, Opinions of respected authorities, based on descriptive studies, narrative reviews, clinical experience, or reports of expert committees.
... For example, the reason, or part of the reason, obesity was associated with an increased mortality rate in the past was not because the obesity per se completely caused the deleterious associations, but rather because factors leading to obesity, such as inactivity and high energy intake, also contributed directly to mortality risk. Although energy expenditure in physical activity, particularly in occupational activities, has declined in the United States over time, 19 there is evidence that diet quality has been slowly improving. [20][21][22] If some elements of diet quality have improved, such as a lower ratio of saturated and trans fats to unsaturated fats, such dietary changes might lead to a diminution of the association between obesity and mortality. ...
The association of obesity with mortality has been the subject of scientific investigation for centuries. Although historical observations, as well as more recent quantitative analyses, demonstrate a relationship of obesity with early death, there remain questions about the degree of the association and how it may vary with age, diet, physical activity, and other life circumstances. The relationship between body mass index (BMI) and mortality is “U-shaped,” with the lowest mortality rate observed at a mildly overweight BMI. Many potential explanations have been postulated for higher mortality at both lower and higher levels of BMI, such as occult disease in those at low BMI; difference across categories in weight variability, smoking, and/or distribution of body fat; and the “fit but fat” phenotype. This review discusses some of the continuing questions and hypotheses surrounding the relationship of BMI with mortality and identifies additional research needed.
... 21 As these results are congruent with our study, it may be important to consider potential age differences in disease trends. Differences in CVD incidence trends by age group may be explained by the fact that in many developed countries, rates of important CVD risk factors such as substance abuse, 22 physical inactivity 23 and obesity 24 are increasing among adolescents and young adults. Moreover, these risk factors do not affect all population subgroups equally, with low SES being associated with higher rates of substance abuse, 25 physical inactivity, 26 and obesity. ...
Objective
We aimed to estimate how longitudinal trends in cardiovascular disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence in Catalonia, Spain from 2009 to 2018 may differ by age, sex and socioeconomic deprivation.
Design
Cohort study using prospectively collected data.
Setting
Electronic health records from primary healthcare centres in Catalonia, Spain.
Participants
3 247 244 adults (≥40 years).
Outcome measures
We calculated the annual incidence (per 1000 persons-year) and incidence rate ratios (IRR) between three time periods of cardiovascular disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus to measure trends and changes in incidence during the study period.
Results
In 2016–2018 compared with 2009–2012, cardiovascular disease incidence increased in the 40–54 (eg, IRR=1.61, 95% CI: 1.52 to 1.69 in women) and 55–69 age groups. There was no change in cardiovascular disease incidence in women aged 70+ years, and a slight decrease in men aged 70+ years (0.93, 0.90 to 0.95). Hypertension incidence decreased in all age groups for both sexes. Type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence decreased in all age groups for both sexes (eg, 0.72, 0.70 to 0.73 in women aged 55–69 years), except for the 40–54 year age group (eg, 1.09, 1.06 to 1.13 in women). Higher incidence levels were found in the most deprived areas, especially in the 40–54 and 55–69 groups.
Conclusions
Overall cardiovascular disease incidence has increased while hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence have decreased in the last years in Catalonia, Spain, with differences in trends by age group and socioeconomic deprivation.
... The sedentary nature of their work does not support work-related activity at the workplace. This supports the hypothesis of a changing social pattern of physical activity, with a decline in occupational physical activity, especially among the workers in the formal sector [31]. The use of personal cars as modes of transport, house-helps, and workplace technologies have been found in the study by Owen et al. to reduce work-and travel-related activities, especially among persons of high socioeconomic status [32]. ...
Introduction
Any type of activity that results in caloric expenditure has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases; nonetheless, most people, especially office workers, are physically inactive. This study sought to evaluate the extent of physical inactivity and its determinants among the staff of selected banks in Accra, Ghana.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study involving 219 banking staff randomly selected from five commercial banking institutions in Accra, Ghana. Demographic data was collected with a structured questionnaire. Physical inactivity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Study associations were determined using univariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression models with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated.
Results
Two hundred and nineteen (219) participants were recruited, out of which 56.6% were males and 43.4% were females. The mean age (± SD) of the participants was 40.0±7.9 years. Physical inactivity was observed in 179 (81.7%) participants. The following were independently associated with physical inactivity: travel-related activities (AOR, 0.151; 95% CI, 0.059–0.384; p<0.001); working in the bank for 6–10 years (AOR, 4.617; 95% CI, 1.590–13.405; p = 0.005); and working in the bank for 11 years and above (AOR, 2.816; 95% CI, 1.076–7.368; p = 0.035).
Conclusion
Physical inactivity was very high among bankers. Travel-related activities reduced physical inactivity whiles working at the bank for more than six years increased physical inactivity. Thus, promoting regular physical activity, frequent monitoring, and implementation of other appropriate healthy lifestyle intervention strategies are vital to reduce risk of early onset disease conditions associated with physical inactivity in this population.
... Medical progress might have contributed to lowering the prevalence and intensity of pain among middle-aged and older adults compared to the prevalence that could be observed several years ago. Also, lifestyle changes toward more physical activity [31,32,43], which seems to have beneficial effects with regard to pain perception and pain tolerance [19,48], might have resulted in trends toward a lower pain prevalence and pain intensity over time. However, at the same time an increase of functional limitations in midlife and early-old age -potentially caused by pain [12,15,56], as pain is a leading cause of disability [52] -as well as a negative trend in physically healthy life expectancy have been observed among later-born middle-aged and older adults compared to earlier-born individuals [13,28,42]. ...
Objective:
Pain is a very common chronic condition in late life that is associated with poorer quality of life and greater functional restrictions. Little is known regarding temporal trends in pain prevalence and pain intensity. Therefore, we estimated trends in pain prevalence and intensity over time among German middle-aged and older adults.
Methods:
We used two independent samples drawn in different years from the German Ageing Survey, which is a nationwide population-representative study with a cohort-sequential design. Specifically, a sample of individuals aged 40-85 years who were assessed in 2008 (n = 5961) was compared with a sample of individuals with the same age range who were assessed in 2014 (n = 5809). Individuals were asked if and to what extent they had experienced constant or recurrent pain within the past four weeks. χ2 tests and regression analyses were computed.
Results:
In 2008, about 44% of all individuals reported suffering from at least very mild pain. In 2014, this proportion was higher by about 7%. Controlling for chronological age, gender, education, region of residence (West vs. East Germany), depressive symptoms, chronic diseases, BMI, and physical activity, the difference in pain prevalence and pain intensity between the samples remained statistically significant.
Conclusion:
Our data suggest an increase in the prevalence and intensity of pain among middle-aged and older German adults between 2008 and 2014, which remained statistically significant when controlling for socio-demographic and health-related indicators. Further research is needed to identify the factors underlying this increasing pain prevalence and pain intensity in order to counteract this negative temporal trend.
... those born in 1958, with a small effect in those born in 1970. Given that both reported prevalence of depression52 and engagement in leisure time and MVPA53,54 have risen over the past few decades, the role of MVPA in mediating depression and physical function may be evolving. The proportion mediated in BCS70 (3 to 5%) is considerably weaker than the 7.5% mediated effect observed in, to our knowledge, the single previous study that has investigated this mediation pathway14 . ...
Background:
Mental health and physical health are intrinsically linked, yet the mechanisms are not well understood. We investigated whether moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) mediated the association between depression and physical function (PF) in midlife.
Methods:
Individuals from two UK birth cohorts born within one week in 1958 (n = 7278) and 1970 (n = 6097) with data on depression (ages 33/34; Malaise Inventory), MVPA (age 42; self-reported) and PF (Short Form-36 subscale). Covariates included sex, childhood and adulthood social class, maternal mental health, childhood mood, alcohol consumption, smoking habits, sleep, marital status, BMI and long-standing illness/disability. Linear or multinomial logistic regression models examined associations between depression, MVPA and PF. We used a parametric g-computation mediation analysis approach to estimate percent differences in PF.
Results:
Depression was associated with less frequent MVPA and poorer PF. Lower MVPA was associated with worse PF. The direct effect - randomised analogue not operating via MVPA - of depression on PF was -18.8 % (95%CI:--25.8,-11.8) and -15.8 % (20.6,-11.0) in the 1958 and 1970 cohorts, respectively. The indirect effect -operating via MVPA - was -0.5 % (-1.0,-0.03) and -0.2 % (-0.6, 0.3), resulting in a total proportion mediated of 3.1 % (0.1, 6.0) and 0.9 % (-1.6, 3.4).
Limitations:
MVPA was self-reported. Intermediate confounders and mediators were measured at the same age, however associations did not change in sensitivity analysis considering age 46 MVPA (1958 cohort).
Conclusions:
Although higher MVPA was protective against poor PF, there was only minor evidence that it mediated the association between depression and PF. Further investigation into other potential mediators of pathways from mental to physical health is needed.
... Additionally, there are PA disparities by income and race/ethnicity [22][23][24][25][26][27][28]. While the prevalence of sufficient leisure time PA is stable or increasing in white and college-educated populations, minority, less-educated and low-income groups are experiencing declines and have lower PA levels overall [29,30]. Transit use often involves walking or biking to stations or destinations and is associated with more minutes of PA and meeting PA guidelines [31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38], providing an approach to combat physical inactivity [39][40][41]. ...
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted life in extraordinary ways impacting health and daily mobility. Public transit provides a strategy to improve individual and population health through increased active travel and reduced vehicle dependency, while ensuring equitable access to jobs, healthcare, education, and mitigating climate change. However, health safety concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic eroded ridership, which could have longstanding negative consequences. Research is needed to understand how mobility and health change as the pandemic recedes and how transit investments impact health and equity outcomes.
Methods
The TROLLEY (TRansit Opportunities for HeaLth, Livability, Exercise and EquitY) study will prospectively investigate a diverse cohort of university employees after the opening of a new light rail transit (LRT) line and the easing of campus COVID-19 restrictions. Participants are current staff who live either < 1 mile, 1–2 miles, or > 2 miles from LRT, with equal distribution across economic and racial/ethnic strata. The primary aim is to assess change in physical activity, travel mode, and vehicle miles travelled using accelerometer and GPS devices. Equity outcomes include household transportation and health-related expenditures. Change in health outcomes, including depressive symptoms, stress, quality of life, body mass index and behavior change constructs related to transit use will be assessed via self-report. Pre-pandemic variables will be retrospectively collected. Participants will be measured at 3 times over 2 years of follow up. Longitudinal changes in outcomes will be assessed using multilevel mixed effects models. Analyses will evaluate whether proximity to LRT, sociodemographic, and environmental factors modify change in outcomes over time.
Discussion
The TROLLEY study will utilize rigorous methods to advance our understanding of health, well-being, and equity-oriented outcomes of new LRT infrastructure through the COVID-19 recovery period, in a sample of demographically diverse adult workers whose employment location is accessed by new transit. Results will inform land use, transportation and health investments, and workplace interventions. Findings have the potential to elevate LRT as a public health priority and provide insight on how to ensure public transit meets the needs of vulnerable users and is more resilient in the face of future health pandemics.
Trial registration
The TROLLEY study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04940481) June 17, 2021, and OSF Registries (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/PGEHU) June 24, 2021, prior to participant enrollment.
... These results, which are congruent with the ndings of our study, highlight the importance of considering potential differences by age when understanding disease trends, as all population subgroups may not exhibit the same trends. Differences in CVD incidence trends by age group may be explained by the fact that in many developed countries, rates of important CVD risk factors such as substance abuse (27,28), physical inactivity (29), and obesity (30) are increasing among adolescents and young adults. Moreover, these risk factors do not affect all population subgroups equally, with low SES being associated with higher rates of substance abuse (31,32), physical inactivity (32), and obesity (33). ...
Background: It is unclear how cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence trends have evolved in different population subgroups by age, sex, and socioeconomic status. Our study aims to estimate the trends in cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence in Catalonia, Spain from 2009-2018, considering age, sex, and socioeconomic deprivation.
Methods: Our study is a population-based cohort study using prospectively collected data from electronic health records from primary care and hospital settings in Catalonia, Spain, from 2009-2018. Our final study population included 3,247,244 adults (≥40 years). We calculated the annual incidence (per 1000 persons-year) and incidence rate ratios (IRR) between three time periods of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus to measure trends and changes in incidence during the study period.
Results: In 2016-2018 compared to 2009-2012, cardiovascular disease incidence increased in the 40-54 (e.g., IRR=1.61, 95%CI: 1.52-1.69 in women) and 55-69 (1.35, 1.31-1.40 in women) age groups. There was no change in cardiovascular disease incidence in women aged 70+ years, and a slight decrease in men aged 70+ years (0.93, 0.90-0.95). Hypertension incidence decreased in all age groups for both sexes. Type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence decreased in all age groups for both sexes (e.g., 0.72, 0.70-0.73 in women aged 55-69 years), except for the 40-54 year age group (e.g., 1.09, 1.06-1.13 in women). Incidence trends by deprivation for all three conditions mirrored overall trends, although there were higher incidence levels in the most deprived areas, especially in the 40-54 and 55-69 year groups. These differences have remained constant or narrowed in recent years.
Conclusions: Overall cardiovascular disease incidence has increased while hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus incidence have decreased in the last years in Catalonia, Spain. Differences in trends by age group and socioeconomic deprivation were found. Calling attention to these differences can serve to inform policies aimed at reducing the burden of these conditions and health inequities.
... According to global recommendations, children and adolescents should engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) for 60 min per day (World Health Organization [WHO], 2010). However, youths' physical activity (PA) is decreasing over time (Knuth & Hallal, 2009;WHO, 2010), and physical inactivity has been widely identified to constitute one of the largest public health challenges in the 21st century (Blair, 2009). Schools have been presented as highly appropriate settings for promoting PA (Institute of Medicine (IOM), 2013), as school-based programs reach most children, irrespective of gender, ethnicity and background, and children spend a large proportion of their time at school within weekday (WHO, 2008;Kriemler et al., 2011;Webster et al., 2015). ...
The aim of this study was to examine secondary school teachers' perceptions of barriers related to an intervention implementing daily PA during normal classroom time, known as movement integration (MI). Using a longitudinal design, twelve secondary school teachers from one secondary school in Norway were interviewed three times over a period of 8 months, before, under and after a PA intervention study The data analysis identified four main barriers related to MI: (a) time, (b) perception of own competence, (c) uncertainty of academic outcome, and (d) inability of PA to fit within the instruction of the academic subject. Two issues were found to be representative of the study's findings: academic pressure, and a need for new competence.
... Moreover, subjects who engaged in any PE were more likely to be born approximately eight years after those not practicing PE (averaging 1964 vs. 1972; t = 9.51; p < 0.0001; not shown). This difference in birth years is consistent with a rising popularity of regular PE and leisure time activities over time (Knuth and Hallal, 2009;van Oostrom et al., 2019). ...
Background
This study evaluated associations of PE with symptomatic status in mood and anxiety disorder subjects, and considered many other associated factors so as to expand on comparable previous studies.
Methods
Consenting adults at a mood disorder center were assessed for associations of PE frequency ([never, past only, ≤once/week] vs. regularly at 2–3- or >3-times/week) with standard psychometric measures of depression and anxiety symptoms, selected demographic, clinical factors, using bivariate and multivariate methods.
Results
Of 2190 subjects (58.8% women; mean age 42.6 years; 44.8% with major depressive, 40.6% bipolar, and 14.6% anxiety disorders), 22.5% currently engaged in regular PE. Such engagement was associated with lower morbidity ratings, youth, male sex, being unmarried, more education, higher socio-economic status (SES), less religious practice, less early abuse, younger age at illness onset and at intake, fewer years ill, lower BMI, fewer siblings, hyperthymic temperament, less time depressed before intake, and living at higher population density. Greater PE-frequency was associated with lower ratings of depression (but not anxiety), male sex, younger age, and lower BMI. Factors independently associated with PE in multivariate modeling ranked by significance: older age at intake ≥ lower BMI > more education > higher SES > male sex.
Limitations
PE assessment did not include type, intensity or duration. Some information provided may be subject to recall bias, though it should not affect comparisons among subjects.
Conclusion
Regularly repeated PE again appeared to be beneficial for patients with depression or anxiety and should be included in their treatment interventions.
... The increasing trend in leisure-time physical activity, as well as maintenance or reduction in the occupational physical activity, are consistent with findings from high-income countries as well as from individual countries as Brazil [10,19], which can be a marker of a transition in the domain that most contribute to total physical activity [20]. Despite the general trends, there were specific trends considering quintiles of education. ...
Background
We aimed to investigate time trends and inequalities of different physical activity (PA) domains and sitting time (ST) in adults from South American countries.
Methods
We included cross-sectional data of nationally representative surveys on adults (n = 597 843) from nine South American countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela), with data collection time frames ranging from 2005 to 2020. Data on different PA domains (leisure-time, transport, and occupational) and ST were assessed through questionnaires. Trends according to education level (quintiles), gender (m/w), and age group (18-34 years, 35-49 years, 50-64 years) were estimated for the harmonized indicators of nonzero PA in the different domains, ≥150 min/week of total PA and ≥8 hours/d of ST.
Results
Chile (2009/2010 = 78.9% vs 2016/2017 = 70.5%), and Peru (2009/2010 = 78.6% vs 2011 = 69.6%) reduced total PA, while Brazil (2013 = 57.3% vs 2019 = 67.0%) and Uruguay (2006 = 69.4% vs 2013 = 79.4%) increased, and Argentina and Venezuela maintained. There was an increasing trend for ST in Argentina, Peru, and Uruguay. Leisure-time PA increased in most countries (6/8 countries). Transport PA was relatively stable, while occupational PA presented mixed findings. Education inequalities increased over time for total and leisure-time PA, while age and gender inequalities were relatively constant.
Conclusions
Future South American countries’ efforts may be warranted to promote PA and reduce ST in adults, while addressing inequalities when implementing actions.
... These potential benefits of sport participation compelled several researchers to explore the factors that favor or hinder the regular practice of this type of physical activity during adolescence, as well as factors that prevent drop out [12][13][14]. Knowing the factors that lead to drop out is especially relevant at this stage of development, where there is a drastic decrease in participation rates in physical activity and sports [15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25]. ...
The main objective of this work was to study the motivational antecedents of the intention to drop out of youth sport from the postulates of the achievement goal theory (AGT), placing special emphasis on the motivational climate that coaches create in their teams. Specifically, we analyzed whether changes in the perception of the motivational climate between the beginning and the end of the season predicted changes in players’ goal orientations, whether these, in turn, predicted changes in self-esteem and contingent self-esteem, and finally, whether the latter predicted the intention to drop out. Participants in the study were 552 players (Mage = 11.23, SD = 1.14), who completed the questionnaires at the beginning and at the end of the season. The results of the longitudinal structural model presented acceptable goodness-of-fit indices and the relationships were significant in the expected direction according to the postulates of the AGT. This research provides evidence that AGT is a relevant theoretical model for the study of drop out in sport.
Background: modifiable risk factors related to lifestyle have possible low-cost interventions and, although potentially relevant in defining the epidemiological profile of the population and being associated with decreased early mortality from cardiovascular disease, these are not being monitored so that they can be assessed globally. So, the purpose of the study was to describe, analyze, and compare the lifestyle in the city of São Paulo in 2003 and 2015.
Methods: this is a cross-sectional, population-based study that utilized data from the Health Survey of the City of São Paulofrom 2003 and 2015, selecting individuals of both sexes, aged 12 years and older. The study evaluated smoking, leisure-time physical activity, dependency, abusive alcohol consumption, frequent alcohol consumption, intake of fruits, vegetables, and greens, and overweight. Prevalence estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for each lifestyle-related variable in 2003 and 2015, according to age group, sex, and education level. Poisson regression models were used to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios by age group, sex, and education level.
Results: between 2003 and 2015, smoking decreased by 15% overall, 39% among adolescents, and 15% among adults. Insufficient intake of fruits, vegetables, and greens decreased by 7% overall, 11% among adults, 8% in males, 7% in females, 7% in those with intermediate education, and 17% in those with higher education. Frequent alcohol consumption decreased by 25.8% among those with higher education. Overweight increased by 37% overall, with significant increases in all age, gender, and educational categories.
Conclusions: smoking, frequent alcohol consumption, and insufficient intake of fruits, vegetables, and greens showed positive decreases. Conversely, overweight exhibited negative increases across all analyzed categories. Given the existence of current public policies related to the presented risk factors, there is a need for evaluation and improvement of existing policies, especially those intervening in factors with the worst outcomes.
O estudo teve como objetivo realizar uma revisão sistemática, com intuito de mapear a associação entre aptidão cardiorrespiratória, tempo de tela e status de peso em crianças e adolescentes, bem como verificar qual a direção dessas relações. A busca foi realizada de acordo com as recomendações PRISMA, nas bases de dados Web of Science, Scopus, e no Medline. Foram incluídos estudos completos e originais, publicados entre 2000 e março de 2021, e que avaliassem as variáveis citadas de forma concomitante e/ou associações. Foram identificados 152 artigos, e após refinamento conforme desfechos, 30 documentos avaliados de forma qualitativa. Pode-se verificar que as variáveis de saúde, como aptidão cardiorrespiratória, tempo de tela e status de peso, seguem com dados negativamente alarmantes nesta população, e que elas estão correlacionadas fortemente, demonstrando que a modificação de uma delas pode vir a interferir nas demais, melhorando assim o status de saúde de crianças e adolescentes.
O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a tendência temporal dos diferentes domínios da atividade física e da inatividade física em adultos (20 a 59 anos) nas capitais dos estados brasileiros e no Distrito Federal no período de 2006 a 2021. Para tanto, foi desenhado um estudo de série temporal, de base populacional, com dados da Pesquisa VIGITEL. A prática de atividade física foi avaliada segundo tempo de lazer, deslocamento ativo, atividade física laboral/ocupacional e doméstica. A análise de série temporal foi realizada por meio de regressão Joinpoint. Foram estimadas as variações percentuais anuais (VPA) para os segmentos do período e seus respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%). Do total de 525.363 participantes, 59,7% eram do sexo feminino e 40,3% do sexo masculino. A atividade física no lazer apresentou tendência ascendente no período de 2011 a 2016 (VPA:4,4;IC95%:1,8;7,0) e estacionária no período de 2016 a 2021 (VPA:-0,4;IC95%:- 0,2;2,0). A prática de atividade física ativa em viagens apresentou tendência de queda (VPA:-9,6;IC95%:-15,9;-2,8;período:2009-2013). A prática de atividade física no trabalho apresentou tendência de queda em todo o período (VPA:-0,7;IC95%:-1,0;-1,3). No doméstico, a tendência foi decrescente de 2006 a 2008 (VPA:-12,2;IC95%:-17,8;-6,3) e estacionária de 2008 a 2021 (VPA:-0,1;IC95%: -0,5;0,3). A inatividade física não apresentou tendência estatisticamente significativa (VPA:-0,8;IC95%:-2,5;1,0;período:2011-2021).
Background
Falls and physical inactivity increase with age. However, physical activity, falls and their associations in older people born at different times is unclear.
Methods
Women born 1921-26 and 1946-51 who completed follow-up questionnaires in 1999 (n=8,403, mean (SD) age: 75 (1) years) and 2019 (n=7,555, 71 (1) years) in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health. Self-reported non-injurious and injurious falls in the previous 12 months and weekly amounts and types of physical activity (brisk walking, moderate- and vigorous-intensity) were compared between the cohorts using Chi-square tests. Associations between physical activity, and non-injurious and injurious falls were estimated using multinomial logistic regressions informed by a directed acyclic graph (DAG).
Results
A greater proportion of the later (1946-51) cohort (59%) reached 150-300 minutes of weekly physical activity, as recommended by World Health Organization, compared to the earlier (1921-26) cohort (43%, p<0.001). A greater proportion of the later cohort reported non-injurious falls (14% versus 8%). Both cohorts reported similar proportions of injurious falls (1946-51:15%, 1921-26:14%). In both cohorts, participation in 150-300 minutes of physical activity was associated with lower odds of non-injurious falls (adjusted Odds Ratio (ORs), 95% CI 1921-26: 0.66, 0.52-0.84; 1946-51: 0.78, 0.63-0.97) and injurious falls (1921-26: 0.72, 0.60-0.87; 1946-51: 0.78, 0.64-0.96).
Conclusion
Participation in recommended levels of physical activity was associated with reduced falls in both cohorts. However, generational differences were found with more falls and more physical activities in the women born later. Future studies could examine the reasons contributing to the generational differences.
Background
There is limited research on whether physical activity (PA) in early childhood is associated with the timing of pubertal events in girls.
Methods
We used data collected over 2011–16 from the LEGACY Girls Study (n = 984; primarily aged 6–13 years at study enrolment), a multicentre North American cohort enriched for girls with a breast cancer family history (BCFH), to evaluate if PA is associated with age at thelarche, pubarche and menarche. Maternal-reported questionnaire data measured puberty outcomes, PA in early childhood (ages 3–5 years) and total metabolic equivalents of organized PA in middle childhood (ages 7–9 years). We used interval-censored Weibull parametric survival regression models with age as the time scale and adjusted for sociodemographic factors, and we tested for effect modification by BCFH. We used inverse odds weighting to test for mediation by body mass index-for-age z-score (BMIZ) measured at study enrolment.
Results
Being highly active vs inactive in early childhood was associated with later thelarche in girls with a BCFH [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.26–0.59), but not in girls without a BCFH. In all girls, irrespective of BCFH, being in the highest vs lowest quartile of organized PA in middle childhood was associated with later menarche (aHR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.50–0.97). These associations remained after accounting for potential mediation by BMIZ.
Conclusion
This study provides new data that PA in early childhood may be associated with later thelarche in girls with a BCFH, also further supporting an overall association between PA in middle childhood and later menarche.
Objectives: Daegu Metropolitan City was a region that experienced the pandemic in the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak, and the rate of physical activity practice decreased significantly compared to other regions in 2020. Three years later, in 2022, when social distancing was lifted, although the rate of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in other cities recovered to the pre-COVID-19 levels, Daegu’s recovery was the lowest among special and metropolitan cities.Methods: We investigated to the characteristics of the group whose practice rate of moderate to high physical activity has not recovered to its pre-COVID level by changes in the practice rate of MVPA from 2019 to 2022 according to sociodemographic characteristics, by using data from the Daegu City Community Health Survey.Results: In difference (%p) between years, the rate of practicing MVPA in those who had a high rate of that before COVID-19 decreased significantly. In 2019, before the outbreak of COVID-19, the groups with the lowest rates of MVPA were women, over 70 years old, low-income, other occupations (students, housewives, unemployed), hypertension, and diabetes. In increase/decrease rate, the groups that decreased the most in 2020 were women, over 70 years old, low-income, agriculture · forestry · fisheries, hypertension, and diabetes. The groups with the lowest recovery in 2022 were women, 60s, low-income, agriculture · forestry · fisheries, hypertension, and diabetes.Conclusions: The group whose MVPA was most vulnerable in 2019 decreased the most in 2020, and the group that decreased the most significantly was found to be the group with the lowest recovery in 2022. The gap between the vulnerable and privileged groups has widened as the former has become more vulnerable due to the pandemic. Therefore, it is crucial for the local government to intervene for vulnerable groups because the groups that in socioeconomic may be more affected by reduced physical activity.
There exists considerable evidence that people do not often follow the health recommendations issued by health authorities. It might be tempting to think that not following health recommendations is a sign of irrationality and that behavioral considerations are required in order to explain such behavior. Despite this temptation, and using a general health‐capital model which accounts for the consumption of many goods, a stock of health and investment in it, as well as an agent's random lifetime and accumulation of wealth, it is shown that such seemingly irrational decisions are in fact consistent with rational, forward‐looking, decision making. Moreover, it is shown, among other things, that the prototypical assumptions employed in the literature imply that rational agents invest more in their health at each point in time than that which minimizes the conditional probability of dying at that point in time, and thus lack sufficient explanatory reach.
In recent years, the incidence of cancers is continuously increasing in young adults. Early-onset cancer (EOC) is usually defined as patients with cancers under the age of 50, and may represent a unique subgroup due to its special disease features. Overall, EOCs often initiate at a young age, present as a better physical performance but high degree of malignancy. EOCs also share common epidemiological and hereditary risk factors. In this review, we discuss several representative EOCs which were well studied previously. By revealing their clinical and molecular similarities and differences, we consider the group of EOCs as a unique subtype compared to ordinary cancers. In consideration of EOC as a rising threat to human health, more researches on molecular mechanisms, and large-scale, prospective clinical trials should be carried out to further translate into improved outcomes.
Purpose:
Purpose to evaluate the prevalence and temporal trends in adherence to muscle-strengthening activity (MSA) guidelines among the US population from 1997 to 2018 (pre-Covid 19).
Methods:
We used nationally representative data from the National Health Interview Survey of the US (NHIS; a cross-sectional household interview survey). We pooled data from 22 consecutive cycles (1997 to 2018) and estimated prevalence and trends of adherence to MSA guidelines among adults aged 18-24 years, 25-34 years, 35-44 years, 45-64 years, and ≥ 65 years.
Results:
A total of 651,682 participants (mean age 47.7 years [SD = 18.0], 55.8% women) were included. The overall prevalence of adherence to MSA guidelines significantly increased (p < .001) from 1997 to 2018 (19.8% to 27.2%, respectively). Adherence levels significantly increased (p < .001) for all age groups from 1997 to 2018. Compared with their white non-Hispanic counterparts, the odds ratio for Hispanic females was 0.5 (95% CI = 0.4-0.6).
Conclusions:
It is over a 20-year span, adherence to MSA guidelines increased across all age groups, although the overall prevalence remained below 30%. Future intervention strategies to promote MSA are required with a particular focus on older adults, women, Hispanic women, current smokers, those with low educational levels, and those with functional limitations or chronic conditions.
Importance:
There is a lack of comprehensive data on the association of the COVID-19 pandemic with the prevalence of physical activity in large-scale data sets.
Objective:
To investigate long-term trends in physical activity using information from a nationally representative survey covering 2009 to 2021.
Design, setting, and participants:
This general population-based and repeated cross-sectional study was conducted from 2009 to 2021 using the Korea Community Health Survey, a nationally representative survey in South Korea. Data from 2009 to 2021 for 2 748 585 Korean adults were obtained through a nationwide, large-scale, serial study. Data were analyzed from December 2022 through January 2023.
Exposure:
COVID-19 pandemic onset.
Main outcomes and measures:
The trend of sufficient aerobic physical activity was measured by prevalence and mean metabolic equivalent of task (MET) score based on World Health Organization physical activity guidelines and defined as 600 MET-min/wk or greater. The cross-sectional survey included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), region of residence, education level, income level, smoking status, alcohol consumption level, stress status, physical activity level, and history of diabetes, hypertension, and depression.
Results:
Among 2 748 585 Korean adults (738 934 aged 50-64 years [29.1%] and 657 560 aged ≥65 years [25.9%]; 1 178 869 males [46.4%]), the prevalence of sufficient physical activity did not change significantly during the prepandemic period (β difference, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.6 to 1.4). During the pandemic, the prevalence of sufficient physical activity decreased significantly, from 36.0% (95% CI, 35.9% to 36.1%) in 2017 to 2019 to 30.0% (95% CI, 29.8% to 30.2%) in 2020 and 29.7% (95% CI, 29.5% to 29.9%) in 2021. Trends showed decreases in the prevalence of sufficient physical activity among older adults (ages ≥65 years; β difference, -16.4; 95% CI, -17.5 to -15.3) and younger adults (ages 19 to 29 years; β difference, -16.6; 95% CI, -18.1 to -15.0) during the pandemic. In particular, the trend of sufficient physical activity declined during the pandemic in females (β difference, -16.8; 95% CI, -17.6 to -16.0), individuals in urban residences (β difference, -21.2; 95% CI, -22.2 to -20.2), healthy participants (eg, those with normal BMI, 18.5 to 22.9: β difference,-12.5; 95% CI, -13.4 to -11.7), and individuals at increased risk of stress (eg, history of a depressive episode; β difference, -13.7; 95% CI, -19.1 to -8.4). Prevalence trends in mean MET score were similar to those in the main results; total mean MET score decreased from the 2017 to 2019 period (1579.1 MET-min/wk; 95% CI, 1567.5 to 1590.7 MET-min/wk) to the 2020 to 2021 period (1191.9 MET-min/wk; 95% CI, 1182.4 to 1201.4 MET-min/wk.
Conclusions and relevance:
This cross-sectional study found that the national prevalence of physical activity was stable or consistent before the pandemic period, with a marked decrease during the pandemic, particularly among healthy individuals and subgroups at increased risk of negative outcomes, including older adults, females, urban residents, and those with depressive episodes. Future studies may be needed to evaluate the association between the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in physical activity.
Over the past several decades, the incidence of early-onset cancers, often defined as cancers diagnosed in adults <50 years of age, in the breast, colorectum, endometrium, oesophagus, extrahepatic bile duct, gallbladder, head and neck, kidney, liver, bone marrow, pancreas, prostate, stomach and thyroid has increased in multiple countries. Increased use of screening programmes has contributed to this phenomenon to a certain extent, although a genuine increase in the incidence of early-onset forms of several cancer types also seems to have emerged. Evidence suggests an aetiological role of risk factor exposures in early life and young adulthood. Since the mid-20th century, substantial multigenerational changes in the exposome have occurred (including changes in diet, lifestyle, obesity, environment and the microbiome, all of which might interact with genomic and/or genetic susceptibilities). However, the effects of individual exposures remain largely unknown. To study early-life exposures and their implications for multiple cancer types will require prospective cohort studies with dedicated biobanking and data collection technologies. Raising awareness among both the public and health-care professionals will also be critical. In this Review, we describe changes in the incidence of early-onset cancers globally and suggest measures that are likely to reduce the burden of cancers and other chronic non-communicable diseases.
The purpose of this article is to conceptualize a novel theoretical occurrence—team physical activity (PA)—and its relevance for researchers and organizations. By building a testable model of the consequences and contingencies of team PA, we integrate the science of teamwork with the scholarly domain of employee health and well-being. Hence, we clarify the construct of team PA, present a three-dimensional typology, and outline a model drawing on neuroscience, positive organizational behavior, and teams research. Our propositions and subsequent discussion proffer an outline of potential benefits for organizations when they increase the utility and frequency of team PA. We also suggest ways in which researchers can advance scholarship in this area.
Screen use (watching television or using a computer) is a form of sedentary lifestyle and may involve a great risk of developing cardiometabolic, muscular and visual diseases. However, knowledge about changes in screen use among Mexican adults is scarce. Objectives: To analyze the changes in the time allocated to screen activities among Mexican adults and its association with social and demographic factors. Methods: Data from the two versions of the Mexican National Survey of Time Use (ENUT), conducted in 2002 (n = 9486) and 2014 (n = 29617), were analyzed; a sample of adults between 20 and 60 years old was selected. Whether people watched television (TV) or used computers, as well as the time allocated to these activities in the previous week, was asked through a questionnaire. The independent variables were education of the family head; age, sex and marital status of the participants; size of locality and geographic region. Results: From 2002 to 2014 the proportion of Mexican adults who watched TV decreased from 79.9 to 68.2%, but the proportion of those using computers increased from 6.1% to 14.1%. The reduction in time watching TV was higher in young persons, while the increase in computer use was greater among singles, younger adults or urban dwellers. In both years, the groups that spent more time watching TV were men, those with higher socioeconomic status and inhabitants of urban localities. Computers were more used by men and people with higher schooling levels. Conclusions: Although Mexican adults have reduced time watching TV, they spent more time using computers, especially young people, which means that they are exposed to this activity for longer times. Therefore, it is necessary to focus efforts for reducing the use of computers among this sector of the population.
It is widely believed that the performance of children and adolescents on aerobic fitness tests is declining. To test this hypothesis, this meta-analysis compared the results of 55 reports of the performance of children and adolescents aged 6–19 years who have used the 20m shuttle run test (20mSRT). All data were collected in the period 1981–2000.
Following corrections for methodological variation, the results of all studies were expressed using the common metric of running speed (km/h) at the last completed stage. Raw data were combined with pseudodata generated from reported means and standard deviations using Monte Carlo simulation. Where data were available on children and adolescents from the same country of the same age and sex, but tested at different times, linear regression was used to calculate rates of change. This was possible for 11 (mainly developed) countries, representing a total of 129 882 children and adolescents in 151 age × sex × country slices.
There has been a significant decline in performance in the 11 countries where data were available, and in most age × sex groups, with a sample-weighted mean decline of 0.43% of mean values per year. The decline was most marked in older age groups and the rate of decline was similar for boys and girls.
There has been a very rapid secular decline in the 20mSRT performance of children and adolescents over the last 20 years, at least in developed countries. The rate of decline is not related to the change in the country’s relative wealth, as quantified by per capita gross domestic product (GDP).
The patterning of trends in self-assessed health, and in the "Holy Four" of health-related behaviors, that is, smoking, drinking, the use of high-fat milk and butter, and physical exercise, was examined in the Finnish general population aged 25-64 years. There were considerable differences in the health status and health behavior by study year, gender, and educational attainment. The longer the education, the better the health and the more favorable the health behavior, except for the use of alcohol. From the late 1970s to the early 1990s smoking increased slightly among women but decreased among men. The use of alcohol increased, whereas the use of butter and high-fat milk decreased dramatically. Physical exercise during leisure time increased, especially among women. Unemployed men and women were more often smokers than employed persons.
This study examined trends in aerobic fitness in 12-15-year-old South Australian schoolchildren in the years 1995-2000, based on data from the Australian Sports Commission's Talent Search program.
A total of 18,631 children were tested. The aerobic performance test used was the 20 m shuttle run test (20 mSRT). The 20 mSRT scores were expressed as completed laps, and converted to estimated VO(2)max values.
There were significant declines (p=0.04-0.0001) across all age-gender slices, equivalent to 0.18 to 0.36 ml O(2) x kg(-1) x min(-1) x yr(-1), or about 0.4-0.8% of mean values per year. The rate of decline is consistent with several other Australian and overseas studies in the years 1980-2000, which have used a variety of aerobic tests across a wide range of age groups. In relation to children of similar age in 7 other countries, Australian children show poor to average aerobic fitness levels.
It is possible that the decay in Australian children's aerobic fitness is in part due to reduced physical activity.
This paper examines trends in vigorous physical activity participation among students enrolled in grades 7, 9, 11 and 13 in Ontario between 1997 and 2001. Patterns in participation by gender and grade level are also described.
Data were derived from the Ontario Student Drug Use Survey for 1997, 1999, and 2001. Three outcomes of vigorous physical activity were included in self-report questionnaires completed by more than 5,000 students over a three-year period. They responded to the survey in classroom groups during school time. Estimates were weighted and variance and statistical tests have been corrected for the complex sample design.
Comparisons between 1997 and 2001 indicated that, overall, patterns of vigorous physical activity remained stable. However, there were significant declines in vigorous physical activity participation by females and 11th grade students between 1997 and 2001.
The trends for females and 11th graders are disturbing, since they indicate that the normal gender and age differences in vigorous physical activity participation, found in numerous previous studies, are compounded by declining levels over time for these groups.
To measure the prevalence of physical inactivity, and variables associated with it, in an adult southern Brazilian population.
Population-based cross-sectional study covering a multiple-stage sample of 3182 subjects aged 20 yr or more. Physical activity was assessed through the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), using home interviews with last-week recall. The questionnaire covers leisure, occupation, transportation, and housework activities. Physical inactivity was defined as fewer than 150 min.wk(-1) spent in moderate or vigorous physical activities. The time spent in vigorous activities was multiplied by two.
The prevalence of physical inactivity was 41.1%. After multivariate analyses, inactivity was positively associated with age and socioeconomic status, and inversely associated with self-reported health status. Those with white skin color and women who live alone rather than with a partner were more likely to have physical inactivity. Body mass index showed a significant U-shaped relationship with inactivity among men.
The prevalence of physical inactivity in this Brazilian adult population is high, even though lower than reported in studies of leisure-time activity alone in other populations. Studies in developing countries may be seriously biased if activities during labor, transportation, and housework are not assessed.
The aim of this study was to investigate the 1986-1994 trend in obesity, overweight and sedentary leisure-time physical activity status, and the educational gradient in overweight and obesity in the city of Malmö, Sweden.
The public health surveys in Malmö 1986 and 1994 are cross-sectional studies. A total of 4,800 and 5,600 individuals aged 20-80 years were randomly chosen to be interviewed by a postal questionnaire. The participation rates were 74% and 71%. Obesity was defined as BMI 30.0 or more and overweight as BMI 25.0-29.9. The prevalences of leisure-time physical inactivity, obesity and overweight were computed, and the differences between 1986 and 1994 as well as educational gradients in overweight and obesity were assessed.
The prevalence of obesity increased from 4.6% to 11.4% (p<0.001) among men and from 6.1% to 9.8% (p<0.001) among women. The prevalence of overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9) increased from 33.9% to 45.2% (p<0.001) among men, and from 19.6% to 29.1% (p<0.001) among women. The prevalence of leisure time physical inactivity increased among men from 14.7% to 18.1% (p<0.001) among men and from 19.4% to 26.7% (p<0.001) among women. The increasing prevalences of obesity, overweight and physical inactivity were observed in all age, country of origin and educational status groups. The educational differences in BMI 25.0+ observed among both men and women in 1986 disappeared among men in 1994. In contrast, educational differences in obesity (BMI 30.0+), not seen in 1986, appeared in 1994 among men.
The proportions of the population with obesity and overweight increased significantly between 1986 and 1994 for both men and women. The increasing prevalence of physical inactivity seems to be an important explanation.
To examine trends in active transport to and from school, in school sport and physical education (PE), and in weight status among children from high and low socio-economic status (SES) areas in Melbourne, Victoria, between 1985 and 2001.
Cross-sectional survey data and measured height and weight from 1985 (n=557) and 2001 (n=926) were compared for children aged between 9-13 years within high and low SES areas.
From 1985 to 2001, the frequency of walking to or from school declined (4.38 +/- 4.3 vs. 3.61 +/- 3.8 trips/wk, p<0.001), cycling to or from school also declined (1.22 +/- 2.9 vs. 0.36 +/- 1.5 trips/wk, p<0.001), and the frequency of PE lessons declined (1.64 +/- 1.1 vs. 1.18 +/- 0.9 lessons/wk, p<0.001). However, the frequency of school sport increased (0.9 +/- 1.22 vs. 1.24 +/- 0.8 sessions/wk, p<0.001). In 1985, 11.7% of children were overweight or obese compared with 28.7% in 2001 (p<0.001). Apart from walking to school and school sport, there were greater relative declines in cycling to school and PE, and increases in overweight and obesity among children attending schools in low SES areas compared with those attending schools in high SES areas.
Declines in active school transport and PE have occurred at the same time as increases in overweight and obesity among Australian children.
Promoting active school transport and maintaining school sport and PE should be important public health priorities in Australia. Current inequities in school sport and PE and in prevalence of overweight and obesity by area-level SES also need to be addressed.
Literature on the prevalence of physical activity in Asian countries is limited, despite evidence of increasing rates of sedentary-related disease such as obesity and diabetes. It is important to establish nationally representative data in countries such as Taiwan to set up levels and patterns of activity and to inform health policy.
Unpublished data from four cross-sectional nationally representative surveys comprising 29,226 people aged 20 and older were analyzed. We explored the population prevalence of meeting national recommendations for health, examined temporal change across a 4-year period, and attempted comparisons with neighboring Asian and selected westernized countries. Logistic regression analysis provided adjusted odds ratios of physical activity engagement for several demographic variables.
Around 14% of Taiwanese adults met national recommendations. Similar to other Asian countries, but in contrast to declines with age seen in western populations, people aged 45 and older were more likely to be active than younger people. High-risk groups for inactivity were those aged 20-44 with limited formal education and in paid employment.
Overall prevalence in leisure-time physical activity was low. There is scope to increase active leisure for improving health, particularly among younger adults.
To examine trends in walking among adults in 31 states.
Trends by sociodemographic strata were analyzed from respondents who participated in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).
The prevalence of walking among men increased 3.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]=2.4-5.2), from 26.2% (95% CI=25.1-25.3) in 1987 to 30.1% (95% CI=29.4-30.8) in 2000. In women, walking increased 6.6% (95% CI=5.4-7.8), from 40.4% (95% CI=-39.4-41.1) to 46.9% (95% CI=46.2-47.6) during the same time period. However, the prevalence of walking three times a week for 30 minutes duration remained constant across all years. The largest increases occurred in minority subpopulations: 8.7% (95% CI=3.2-14.2) in Hispanic women, 8.5% (95% CI=4.4-12.6) non-Hispanic black women, and 7.0% (95% CI=2.3-11.7) in non-Hispanic black men. Walking was the most frequently reported activity among adults who met the national recommendations for regular physical activity (defined as five or more times a week for > or =30 minutes per session).
Given the acceptability of walking across all sociodemographic subgroups, efforts to increase the frequency of walking could markedly increase the percentage of U.S. adults who engage in regular physical activity, a national priority identified in the Healthy People 2010 objectives for the nation.
To evaluate the evolution in smoking indicators in the adult Brazilian population between 1989 and 2003.
We compared age-adjusted prevalence ratios and means for smoking indicators, stratified by age, sex and sociodemographic variables, obtained from two comparable household surveys that used probabilistic sampling of the Brazilian population aged > 18 years (n = 34 808 in 1989 and n = 5000 in 2003).
Between 1989 and 2003, there was a substantial decrease in the prevalence of smoking (from 34.8% to 22.4%; age-adjusted prevalence ratio, 0.65; 95% confidence interval, CI, 0.60-0.70) and a modest reduction in the mean number of cigarettes smoked per day (from 13.3 to 11.6; age-adjusted difference, -1.8; 95% CI, -2.6 - -1.0). Reductions in the prevalence and intensity of smoking were greater among males, younger age groups and higher socioeconomic strata.
The prevalence of smoking in the adult Brazilian population declined by 35% between 1989 and 2003, or an average of 2.5% per year. This exceptional reduction surpasses those seen in other countries that implemented wide-ranging and rigorous policies for controlling smoking during the same period. The more intense decline in smoking in younger age groups was consistent with the concentration of efforts of the Brazilian tobacco control programme to prevent the onset of smoking among youths and the total prohibition of cigarette advertising. We recommend the intensification of programme initiatives targeting women and less economically favoured population strata.
Recommendations for physical activity in the Guide to Community Preventive Services (the Community Guide) have not been systematically examined or applied in developing countries such as those in Latin America. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the current evidence base concerning interventions to increase physical activity in Latin America using a modified Community Guide process and to develop evidence-based recommendations for physical activity interventions.
In 2006, a literature review of both peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed literature in Portuguese, Spanish, and English was carried out to identify physical activity interventions conducted in community settings in Latin America. Intervention studies were identified by searching ten databases using 16 search terms related to physical activity, fitness, health promotion, and community interventions. All intervention studies related to physical activity were summarized into tables. Six reviewers independently classified the intervention studies by the categories used in the Community Guide and screened the studies for inclusion in a systematic abstraction process to assess the strength of the evidence. Five trained researchers conducted the abstractions.
The literature search identified 903 peer-reviewed articles and 142 Brazilian theses related to physical activity, of which 19 were selected for full abstraction. Only for school-based physical education classes was the strength of the evidence from Latin America sufficient to support a practice recommendation.
This systematic review highlights the need for rigorous evaluation of promising interventions to increase physical activity in Latin America. Implementation and maintenance of school physical education programs and policies should be strongly encouraged to promote the health of Latin American children.
In this article data collected between 1987 and 1991 is analyzed to identify changes in the proportion of sedentary individuals in Edinburgh and Glasgow. In the primary question, which asked the respondents about physical activity for exercise such as walking, running and swimming, a wording change deleting the prompt to specific activities is taken into consideration. The data were collected by telephone on 13,586 respondents. A considerable decrease in the proportion of sedentary individuals in both cities was observed between 1987 and 1991. This decrease could not be related to changes in specific sporting activities. The change to an unprompted question led to a 14% lower estimate of physical activity. This was almost fully explained by a change in the estimate of the proportion of walkers. Older respondents in particular were affected by the question change.
Background:
Smoking, diet, and physical exercise are key determinants of health. This study assessed changes over 10 years and their relationship to changes in health beliefs and risk awareness.
Method:
A survey was carried out of university students from 13 European countries (Belgium, England, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and Spain) in 1990 (4,701 men, 5,729 women) and repeated in 2000 (4,604 men, 5,732 women). We assessed smoking, exercise, fruit and fat intake, beliefs in the importance of behaviors for health, and awareness of the influence of behaviors on heart disease risk.
Results:
Smoking prevalence increased and fruit consumption decreased between 1990 and 2000, while physical exercise and fat intake were more stable. There were large variations between country samples. Health beliefs weakened, with marked decreases in beliefs about smoking and diet. Across country samples, changes in beliefs correlated with changes in the prevalence of behaviors. Awareness of the effects of smoking and exercise was stable, but knowledge of the role of fat intake increased over the decade.
Conclusions:
The differences in health behaviors, beliefs, and risk awareness between the two surveys were disappointing in this educated sector of young adult Europeans. The association between changes in beliefs and prevalence of behavior emphasizes the importance of enhancing positive attitudes to healthier lifestyles.
The assessment of leisure-time physical activity in four studies that used a similar questionnaire was carried out by the University of Minnesota between 1957-1960 and 1985-1987. Each study included adults living in the Upper Midwest. In men, age-adjusted leisure-time energy expenditure consistently increased over time, with the greatest increase occurring between 1957-1960 and 1974-1975. Much of this increase occurred in moderate and heavy intensity activity and was greater for white collar workers than for blue collar workers. The increase in the last period was similar for both classes of workers. Data were unavailable for women before 1980. Age-adjusted leisure-time physical activity in women also increased between 1980-1982 and 1985-1987. This increase was greater for blue collar than for white collar women. A major strength of these analyses is the last two surveys, which were specifically designed to assess time trends. Exact comparability of the earlier two surveys with the two latter surveys cannot be established; however, the use of the same detailed questionnaire across 30 years is unique. We conclude that leisure-time physical activity has been increasing for three decades, including substantial increases in vigorous activities.
Data to monitor physical activity from large, representative samples are rare. Therefore, we conducted standardized telephone surveys for 26 states participating in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System from 1986 through 1990. More than 34,800 adults aged 18 and older responded annually. We scored leisure time physical activity data into four patterns: 1) physically inactive, 2) irregularly active, 3) regularly active, not intensive, and 4) regularly active, intensive. Over time, roughly 6 in 10 persons were physically inactive or irregularly active. While almost 4 in 10 persons were regularly active, less than 1 in 10 were regularly active, intensive. There were statistically significant decreases (-2.3%) in physically inactive persons and significant increases (+2.1%) in persons classified as regularly active, intensive. The irregularly active pattern did not change, while only men of all ages and men less than age 30 increased the regularly active, not intensive pattern (+1.7% and +3.8, respectively). Improvements across the activity patterns varied by demographic group: women and older adults made the most beneficial changes, while races other than white and the least educated groups had unfavorable changes. Despite many improvements, most persons still did little or no physical activity, signaling the need for enhanced intervention efforts.
To describe recent trends in body mass in Auckland, and to determine whether associated changes in cigarette smoking and physical activity could explain these trends.
Risk factors for coronary heart disease were measured in three age-stratified random samples of Europeans aged 35-64 years using a standard protocol in 1982, 1986-8 and 1993-4. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight in kg/(height in m2), with overweight or obese being defined as BMI>25. Results. The age-standardised mean BMI increased from 26.6 (25.4-25.8) to 26.4 (26.2-26.7) in men and from 24.6 (24.2-24.9) to 25.1 (24.8-25.5) in women between 1982 and 1993-4. The prevalence of overweight and obese people increased from 52.8% (48.1-57.7) to 64.2% (58.1-70.3) in men and from 36.5% (31.5-41.5) to 44.9% (39.7-50.1) in women. Self reported cigarette smoking declined between 1982 and 1993-94 with an associated increase in the prevalence of ex-smokers. The change in smoking status accounted for only 7% and 10% of the observed increase in BMI in men and women respectively. Most of the observed change in BMI was due to a general increase in BMI in all smoking categories in both sexes. The prevalence o leisure time physical activity increased in both sexes between 1986-88 and 1993-94 while work physical activity decreased. The change in physical activity should have decreased mean BMI by approximately 4% in men and 14% in women. As with smoking there was a trend towards increasing mean BMI irrespective of the activity undertaken.
Recent trends in smoking cessation explain only a small percentage of the increase in body mass while the trends in physical activity would have predicted a small decrease in the prevalence of obesity, contrary to the observed trends. By exclusion, an increase in total energy intake, is the most likely explanation for the observed trends.
To examine recent trends in physical education (PE) enrollment, daily attendance in PE, and being physically active in PE among high school students in the United States, this study analyzed data from the 1991, 1993, 1995, and 1997 national school-based Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (n = 55,734). Logistic regression analyses were conducted to test for significant linear time trends among the total student population and demographic subgroups (gender, race/ethnicity, and grade). Although PE enrollment in the total student population did not change from 1991 (48.9%) to 1997 (48.8%), the prevalence of students who attended PE daily, and the prevalence of students who were physically active > 20 minutes in an average PE class both decreased significantly among nearly all demographic subgroups. The prevalence of students who were physically active > 20 minutes in daily PE classes decreased from 34.2% in 1991 to 21.7% in 1997 (p < 0.001). To reverse current trends, high schools should implement daily PE classes that emphasize participation in lifelong health-related physical activity for all students.
The study examined the relations of self-reported physical activity levels and physical fitness scores for two samples of college students assessed in 1987 (n = 261) and in 1997 (n = 243). Significantly greater exercise was reported by the 1997 women than the 1987 women; amount of exercise reported by men did not differ. For both samples, greater exercise was associated with increased fitness for women and men as assessed by the Hall 1986 Physical Fitness Test Profile, comprised of measures on body fat composition; grip strength; muscle endurance, flexibility, resting heart rate; systolic and diastolic blood pressures; and aerobic power. For the 1987 sample men were more fit than women. For the 1997 sample, women were more fit than men. The 1997 women were more fit than the 1987 women; there was no difference on overall fitness measures of the two samples of men.
The purpose of this study was to determine the 25-yr trends in leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), occupational activity (OPA), and commuting activity (CA) in the middle-aged population.
Six independent cross-sectional surveys were carried out at 5-yr intervals in the population living in eastern Finland (1972-1997). The common age range of the surveys was 30-59 yr, and the participation rates varied between 70 and 96%. LTPA, OPA, and CA were determined by a self-administered questionnaire. Based on their answers, the people were categorized into high, moderate, and low groups.
The percentage of people who were completely sedentary during their leisure time decreased in both men and women. The estimated average 5-yr decrease was greater in women (-6%) than in men (-3%). Men showed only significant changes in high LTPA (+2.2%), whereas in women both moderate (+4.1%) and high (+1.8%) LTPA increased linearly. The percentage of people with low OPA linearly increased in both men (+3.5%) and women (+3.3%) The proportion of men with high OPA decreased in men (-3.2%) as well as in women (-2.6%). The increase in low CA in men (+5.9%) was twice as great as that in women (+2.6%). Men and women with high OPA increased their LTPA by the greatest extent. In both genders, the increase was almost twice as great as among groups classified as being less active during working hours. The prevalence of people who reported low in all three categories (OPA, LTPA, and CA) remained at the same level (6-8% in men, 7-9% in women).
The proportion of the Eastern Finnish populations classified as sedentary or having only moderate physical activity during their leisure time is still very high among both men (75%) and women (82%), even though the percentage of highly active people increased between 1972 and 1997.
The purpose of this study was to examine secular change in peak oxygen consumption (Vo(2)) in U.S. boys and girls using available data from the 20th century. Studies were primarily identified from review articles and a Medline search. To be included in the analysis, studies must have included direct measurement of peak Vo(2) on healthy (free from overt disease) United States children and youth from the general population separated by sex. Data (mean values) were divided by decade and separated into three age groups: 6-12, 13-15, and 16-18 years for boys, and 6-11, 12-14, and 15-18 years for girls. Peak Vo(2) values were expressed as related to bipedal locomotion; therefore, cycle ergometry values were corrected by a factor of 1.075. Mean values were fit by least squares, goodness-of-fit regression lines. Results indicate that absolute (L x min(-1)) and relative (ml x kg(-1) x min(-1)) peak Vo(2) have remained relatively stable among boys and young girls. In adolescent girls, particularly those 15 years of age and older, peak Vo(2) has decreased by approximately 20% over the past few decades. The available data indicate that aerobic fitness has not decreased in United States youth except in adolescent girls over the past few decades.
Age, sex, geographic and temporal trends in leisure-time physical activity levels were examined using data from five national surveys conducted between 1981 and 1998. Physical activity energy expenditure (AEE) was higher among men compared to women, and in younger versus older adults. AEE increased from Eastern to Western Canada, with a significant temporal trend of increasing AEE. The prevalence of physical inactivity (expending <12.6 kJ x kg(-1) x day(-1) has decreased; however, it remains high (women: 77%; men: 74%). The high prevalence of physical inactivity emphasizes the importance of population-level physical activity surveillance and interventions.
To investigate changes over time in body dimensions, and muscular and aerobic fitness in a representative sample of 16-year-old-girls and boys in secondary schools in Sweden from 1974 to 1995 (n = 855).
Height and weight were measured and five tests were performed: run-walk, two-hand-lift, Sargent jump, sit-ups, and bench-press.
In 1995, girls and boys had higher body mass index (BMI) than in 1974. Girls and boys performed less well in bench-press, sit-ups, and run-walk-tests in 1995. Boys, but not girls, performed better in Sargent jump in 1995 than in 1974. Girls and boys performed better in two-hand-lift in 1995 than in 1974. However, after adjustment for body dimensions, there were no differences in performance in two-hand-lift or run-walk-tests between 1974 and 1995.
There was a decreased aerobic fitness and an increased maximal static strength among adolescents in Sweden between 1974 and 1995. These changes were partly due to increased BMI. However, decreased daily physical activity level cannot be excluded as a contributing factor to the decreased aerobic fitness. The reduced performance in muscular endurance in 1995 was not related to increased BMI. Instead, it is suggested that it is to be related to a specific decrease in hip flexion and arm muscle endurance.
To study the secular trend (time changes) in participation in leisure-time sports activities and in attitudes towards sports activities and physical education in a representative sample of Swedish adolescents between 1974 and 1995.
A questionnaire was distributed to 16-y-old girls and boys (n = 395 in 1974, n = 542 in 1995) to assess participation in leisure-time sports activity, attitudes towards sports activities and attitudes towards physical education at school. Height and weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated.
Compared with 1974, more subjects in 1995 answered that they were engaged in leisure-time sports activities, and that they were members of sports clubs. BMI increased from 1974 to 1995. By 1995, adolescents participated in and had become more interested in individual sports activities, including keep-fit activities (e.g. strength training and aerobics) compared with 1974. A gender difference in the feeling of anxiety towards physical education, with more girls experiencing it, appeared in 1995, but not in 1974.
Although more adolescents participated in leisure-time sports activity in 1995 than in 1974, the lifestyle of adolescents between sports training sessions may have become more sedentary. This is negative in a health perspective, since the benefits of physical activity on health are largely correlated to the total energy expenditure. However, the increased interest in keep-fit activities is important, since these activities have the potential to be continued into adulthood.
The authors explore the time trends in lifestyle factors in the Northern Sweden MONICA population, including physical activity, intake of certain foods, coffee and alcohol consumption, smoking, and the use of smokeless tobacco.
Four health surveys during a 14-year time span were compared (1986, 1990, 1994, and 1999). The participation rate in all surveys was high. A questionnaire with similar or comparable questions about lifestyle factors was used across all health surveys.
A large variation was demonstrated in the consumption of saturated fat in dairy products across the surveys. The use of butter on bread and of 3% fat milk clearly declined in favour of using low-fat margarine and 1-1.5% fat milk. A decline in the intake of boiled or baked potatoes together with an increase in the intake of pasta and rice was demonstrated. There were no changes in leisure-time physical activity. The proportion of the population using tobacco was unaltered. In men, smoking declined during the period but simultaneously there was an increase in the use of smokeless tobacco. The use of "boiled" or Scandinavian coffee diminished and more frequent use of alcohol was seen, especially in men.
Pronounced changes were seen in food consumption with a decrease in saturated fat intake, boiled coffee, and potatoes and an increase in alcohol, rice, and pasta consumption. No clear time trends were found in physical activity or in the use of tobacco.
To determine whether awareness of the moderate physical activity message and prevalence of participation changed among Australian adults between 1997 and 1999, and if changes differed across Australia.
Data were compared on awareness of the moderate physical activity message and on physical activity participation from identical national physical activity surveys in 1997 and 1999.
In 1999, following integrated public health efforts, recognition of the Active Australia campaign was substantially higher in NSW/ACT (61.7%) than elsewhere (29.3%). Knowledge about benefits of moderate activity increased between 1997 and 1999, more so in States with public health campaigns. National participation in 'sufficient physical activity' declined between 1997 and 1999, from 63% to 57%, but the decline was smaller in NSW/ACT (4.4%) than in the other States (6.0%).
Declining trends in physical activity in Australia require increased public health investments, including strategic planning and public education, such as occurred in NSW (1997/98).
To assess trends in neuro-muscular and cardio-respiratory fitness and morphological fitness in Swedish adolescents between 1987 and 2001.
Comparison of data from two samples, one from 1987 (n = 479) and one from 2001 (n = 1470). Subjects underwent functional tests of muscular strength in the lower limbs, trunk and upper body, sub-maximal ergometrics, and measurement of body mass and height.
Cardio-respiratory fitness showed only small changes between 1987 and 2001 among boys, with no changes in girls. Neuro-muscular fitness, as measured by three functional tests, was lower in 2001 compared to 1987. The most pronounced changes in these functional tests were found in the arm-hang test, while changes in lower body and trunk strength tests were less. Our results indicate that the difference in the prevalence of overweight in adolescents between 1987 and 2001 is mainly due to a large change in the most unfit group. The fittest group showed only marginal changes.
We suggest that the differences in neuro-muscular fitness are at least partly due to differences in the amount and nature of physical activity, and that this might lead to consequences for health later in life.
During the 1990s, physical activity recommendations and surveillance methods were developed in an attempt to increase and monitor, respectively, regular physical activity prevalence rates. For this article, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data were analyzed to determine whether regular physical activity proportions in South Carolina adults changed from 1994 to 2000. The physical activity prevalence rates for South Carolina were compared with national rates and Healthy People 2000 goals to measure progress. The rate of physical activity counseling by physicians and other health professionals was also analyzed from 1998 to 1999.
Total subjects included 10,495 adults ages 18 years and older from South Carolina and 545,445 from the remainder of the United States. Using random-digit dialing procedures in 1994, 1996, 1998 and 2000, the two most frequent types of leisure-time physical activity performed in the past month were identified. For activities listed, the frequency (days/wk) and duration (minutes/d) were obtained. Linear regressions were performed on regular physical activity and inactivity for the total population and by gender, race, age, and body mass index (BMI). Data pertaining to whether or not a physician or other health professional had provided physical activity counseling were also obtained for 1998 and 1999.
From 1994 to 2000, the proportion of South Carolina adults participating in regular leisure time physical activity significantly increased (10.8%). Interestingly, the prevalence of regular physical activity in the rest of the nation remained unchanged during this time. Although significant increases were observed in nearly all subgroups, physical activity prevalence rates for South Carolina adults lagged behind national levels and did not meet Healthy People 2000 goals. Physical activity counseling by physicians and other health professionals increased from 1998 (24.1%) to 1999 (30.4%).
While it is not known what factors influenced regular physical activity from 1994 to 2000, they seem to have been equally effective in South Carolina adults of both genders, both races, regular and overweight status, and nearly all age groups. Despite these positive trends, additional efforts are needed to develop and implement effective community and primary care physical activity interventions that facilitate improvements among the nearly two-thirds of South Carolina adults who do not participate in sufficient physical activity to reap significant health benefits.
The present study investigated the interactions between parents' and children's physical activity levels by examining whether or not parents who exercise have children who participate in sport. Of primary interest was an investigation of trends in these interactions over time. Information was collected from 10-13 y old children in 1985 (n = 2463) and then again in 1997-99 (n = 1469), about their sports participation and their perceptions of parents' exercise habits. Boys' participation in at least one sport declined from 87% in 1985 to 76% in 1997/1999 while, among girls, participation fell from 80% to 71%. According to their children's perceptions, mothers exercising regularly fell from 36% to 31% between surveys, while fathers exercising regularly fell from 39% to 32%. Interactions between parents' and children's exercise and sports behaviours were examined employing chi-square analysis techniques. Results showed gender-specific relationships for the 1985 sample, such that active fathers were associated with increased participation in sports by boys, and inactive mothers were associated with less participation in sports by girls. These interactions seemed to diminish over time. It is possible that changes in social structures during this time may be affecting familial behaviour relationships, such as the role modelling of active behaviours.
The purpose of this study was to examine trends in walking for transportation among U.S. adults and youth for Healthy People 2010 objective 22-14. The objective calls for increasing the proportion of trips of 1 mile or less made by walking to 25% for adults and 50% for youth. National transportation surveys are used to track national health objectives, but data interpretation and caveats to use have not been discussed in the public health literature to date.
Cross-sectional analyses at two time points used data from the 1995 Nationwide Personal Transportation Survey and the subsequent 2001 National Household Travel Survey. The populations of interest were U.S. civilian noninstitutionalized adults (aged 18 years and older) and youth (aged 5 to 15 years). Trends were reported for the percentage of walking trips of 1 mile or less for transportation (adults) and walking trips of 1 mile or less to school (youth) using 86,286 trips (1995) and 119,462 trips (2001) made by adults and 3114 trips (1995) and 4073 trips (2001) made by youth.
Of trips of 1 mile or less, adults reported more walking in 2001 (21.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 20.5-21.9) than in 1995 (16.7%; CI, 15.9-17.5). For trips to school of 1 mile or less, youths also increased walking from 1995 (31.3%; CI, 27.9-34.4) to 2001 (35.9%; CI, 33.0-38.8). Changes in survey methodology affected the interpretation of the Healthy People 2010 trends.
In spite of small increases in walking between 1995 and 2001 accompanying a change in survey methodology, U.S. adults and youth fall short of meeting Healthy People 2010 walking objectives for trips of 1 mile or less.
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics three cross-sectional National Health Surveys, conducted in 1989-1990, 1995-1996 and 2000, were used to examine long-term population responses to the 1996 physical activity (PA) recommendations. Past 2-week recall of the number of times and total minutes spent walking for recreation or sport, and doing moderate and vigorous exercise, were averaged for 1 week to create a measure of 'sufficiently active': >or=5 weekly sessions of >or=150 min/week of at least moderate-intensity activity. With the exception of adults aged>60 years, from 1989 to 2000, there were increases in the prevalence of walking (+8%) and in moderate-intensity exercise (+4%), resulting in a significant decline (-6%) in the proportion of those reporting no leisure-time exercise. Participation in vigorous exercise remained unchanged. There was a 'population shift' in median minutes and sessions of walking from 1995 to 2000, but the prevalence of regular walking (>or=5 times and >or=150 min/week) remained unchanged. A small but significant increase (+2%) in the proportion of adults who met the PA recommendations was noted mainly for men under 60 years and for women aged 45-59 years. The proportion meeting the PA recommendations declined significantly in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged area. These data provide evidence contrary to the observed declines in PA documented by the Active Australia surveillance in the late 1990s. The population may have responded to the 1996 concept of moderate-intensity exercise mainly by walking, but sustainable promotional efforts will be required to build on these gains in the forthcoming decades.
