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Relationship between asthma, overweight, and physical activity among U.S. high school students
Sherry Everett Jones1, Sarah L Merkle, Janet E Fulton
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, NE, MS K33, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA. SEverettJones@cdc.gov
Journal of Community Health
|December 26, 2006
Summary
Children and adolescents with asthma are more likely to be overweight. Physical activity levels did not differ significantly between those with and without asthma, suggesting modifiable factors for asthma management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Chronic Illness Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory illness in US children and adolescents.
- Understanding risk factors and modifiable behaviors is crucial for asthma management.
- Previous research indicates links between asthma and various health behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between asthma and overweight status in adolescents.
- To examine the relationship between asthma and physical activity levels in high school students.
- To identify potential modifiable factors for asthma management in youth.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 2003 national Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a representative sample of US high school students.
- Employed SUDAAN software for statistical analysis, accounting for complex survey design (logistic regression).
- Analyzed weighted data from 67% of survey respondents.
Main Results:
- Students with current asthma showed significantly higher odds of being overweight (OR=1.4) and self-identifying as overweight (OR=1.2).
- Increased daily computer use for non-schoolwork was associated with asthma (OR=1.3).
- No significant differences in sufficient vigorous, moderate, or strengthening physical activity were observed between asthmatic and non-asthmatic students.
Conclusions:
- Overweight status is significantly associated with asthma in adolescents.
- Physical activity levels were not significantly different, contrary to expectations for a modifiable factor.
- School and community interventions promoting healthy weight and physical activity are vital for asthma management.
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