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Longitudinal risk factors for persistent fatigue in adolescents
Russell M Viner1, Charlotte Clark, Stephanie J C Taylor
1General and Adolescent Paediatrics Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, England. r.viner@ich.ucl.ac.uk
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|May 7, 2008
Summary
Persistent fatigue is common in adolescents. High levels of sedentary behavior or physical activity, along with depressive symptoms, increase fatigue risk, but obesity and smoking do not.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent health
- Behavioral science
- Mental health
Background:
- Persistent fatigue affects a significant portion of adolescents.
- Understanding risk factors is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sedentary behavior, obesity, smoking, and depression as potential risk factors for persistent fatigue in adolescents.
- To identify key predictors of persistent fatigue in this age group.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal population-based survey was conducted in East London schools.
- 1880 adolescents (aged 11-14 years) completed confidential questionnaires in 2001 and 2003.
- Data collected included persistent fatigue, sedentary behavior, physical activity, depressive symptoms, BMI, and smoking status.
Main Results:
- 4% of adolescents reported persistent fatigue.
- Increased risk of persistent fatigue was associated with sedentary behavior (OR=1.6) and depressive symptoms (OR=2.0).
- High physical activity also showed an increased risk (OR=1.5), while obesity and smoking were not significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Persistent fatigue is a prevalent issue in adolescents.
- Both excessive sedentary behavior and high physical activity levels are linked to increased fatigue risk.
- Depressive symptoms are a significant factor in the development of persistent fatigue, highlighting the importance of mental health.
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