Effects of reducing sedentary behaviour duration by increasing physical activity, on cognitive function, brain...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Public Health
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Epidemiological studies link increased sedentary behavior to diminished cognitive function.
• The impact of reducing sedentary time on cognitive function, brain structure, and function is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review evidence on the effects of reducing sedentary behavior duration through increased physical activity.
• To examine impacts on cognitive function, brain structure, and brain function in healthy individuals across age groups.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
• Comprehensive literature search across six databases (PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science) from August-September 2022.
• Inclusion of randomized and non-randomized experimental studies in English, targeting participants aged 4 years and older.

Main Results:

• Synthesis of findings from included experimental studies.
• Qualitative synthesis stratified by intervention type (acute vs. chronic) and content (reducing sedentary time vs. interrupting sitting).
• Assessment of outcomes related to cognition, brain structure, and brain function.

Conclusions:

• Evidence synthesis will clarify the relationship between reduced sedentary behavior and cognitive/brain health.
• Findings will inform public health guidelines and interventions for promoting brain health through physical activity.
• Dissemination through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and social media.