Central adiposity and associated lifestyle factors in Cree children

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Metabolic Health

Background:

• Aboriginal children exhibit a high prevalence of central adiposity (CA), a key component of metabolic syndrome.
• Understanding lifestyle factors associated with CA is crucial for targeted preventive interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between lifestyle factors and central adiposity (CA) in Canadian Cree children aged 9-12 years.

Main Methods:

• Central adiposity (CA) defined by waist circumference (≥85th percentile).
• Weight status assessed using CDC growth references.
• Dietary intake evaluated via 24-hour recalls.
• Physical activity measured by pedometers.
• Cardiorespiratory fitness determined by the 20m shuttle run test.

Main Results:

• Over half (52.2%) of the 178 participating children had CA, with higher rates in obese (97.4%) and overweight (35.7%) children.
• Waist circumference showed negative correlations with pedometer step counts and shuttle run performance.
• Increased sweetened beverage intake was positively correlated with waist circumference in children with CA.
• Consuming ≥3 fruits/vegetables daily, meeting step recommendations, and higher relative fitness were associated with lower odds of CA.

Conclusions:

• Central adiposity (CA) is highly prevalent among overweight and obese Canadian Cree children.
• Preventive strategies should focus on improving dietary habits, increasing physical activity, and enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness.
• Early lifestyle interventions are essential for mitigating metabolic syndrome risks in this population.