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Physical activity as an important determinant in developing childhood obesity

Gordana Bukara-Radujković1, Dragan Zdravković

  • 1Klinika za decje bolesti Banja Luka. gocabr@inecco.net

Medicinski Pregled
|July 24, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Increased physical activity is linked to lower body mass index (BMI) in children and adolescents. Sedentary behaviors like TV and computer use show varied associations with BMI, highlighting their role in childhood obesity risk.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Childhood Obesity Research

Background:

  • Childhood overweight and obesity are significant global health concerns.
  • Understanding the determinants of body mass index (BMI) in pediatric populations is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
  • The interplay between physical activity and sedentary lifestyle requires further investigation in diverse geographical regions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the correlation between physical activity levels and sedentary lifestyle habits as determinants of BMI in children and adolescents.
  • To assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity within the study cohort.
  • To examine gender-specific associations between physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and BMI.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 1204 children and adolescents aged 6-17 years in the Banjaluka region.
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated using standard height and weight measurements.
  • Data on physical activity (sports) and sedentary lifestyle (computer, video games, TV time) were collected via questionnaires administered to participants and their parents.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 12.2% and 6.1%, respectively.
  • Increased physical activity demonstrated a strong positive correlation with lower BMI in both boys (p<0.05) and girls (p<0.001).
  • Prolonged TV watching was associated with increased BMI in girls (p<0.05), while 2 hours/day of computer use was linked to increased BMI in boys (p<0.05). Interestingly, >3 hours/day computer use showed a lower BMI in boys.

Conclusions:

  • Physical activity and sedentary lifestyle are significant determinants of BMI in children and adolescents.
  • These factors represent important risk factors for the development of overweight and obesity during childhood.
  • Tailored interventions considering gender-specific responses to physical activity and sedentary behaviors may be beneficial.

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