Sex-specific associations between screen time and lipoprotein subfractions

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Disease Research
• Lipid Metabolism Studies
• Public Health and Lifestyle Interventions

Background:

• Sedentary activities, like watching television, are linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors such as elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).
• Limited understanding exists regarding the association between sedentary time and specific lipoprotein subfractions.
• This study investigates the relationship between screen time and lipoprotein subfractions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between daily screen time (television and computer use) and various lipoprotein subfractions.
• To determine if these associations persist independently of other lifestyle factors.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Genetics of Lipid Lowering Drugs and Diet Network (GOLDN) study population.
• Employed mixed linear models to analyze associations between screen time and fourteen lipoprotein subfractions in men and women separately.
• Adjusted for covariates including age, smoking status, pedigree, and dietary intake, with further analysis controlling for body mass index (BMI) and physical activity.

Main Results:

• Screen time was significantly associated with five lipoprotein parameters in women: large VLDL particle concentration, LDL particle number, small LDL particle concentration, large HDL particle concentration, and HDL diameter.
• These associations remained significant even after controlling for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and BMI.
• No significant associations were found in men.

Conclusions:

• Sedentary time, measured by screen time, is associated with specific lipoprotein measures, which are markers of cardiometabolic disease.
• These associations are independent of physical activity levels and BMI in women.
• The findings suggest a potential sex-specific relationship between sedentary behavior and cardiometabolic risk markers.