Correlates of active commuting to school across two generations: the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Active commuting to school (ACS) is a key source of physical activity (PA) for children and adolescents.
• Declining trends in ACS have been observed globally over recent decades.
• Understanding factors influencing ACS is crucial for promoting youth PA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate active commuting to school (ACS) among Finnish children and adolescents.
• To identify factors associated with ACS across two distinct generations.
• To explore potential generational differences in these associations.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized data from the Young Finns Study, comparing two generations (born 1965-74 and 1998-2010).
• School commuting habits were self-reported by 2075 participants in 1983 (G1) and 1137 offspring in 2018 (G2).
• Generalized estimating equation models were used to analyze factors associated with ACS, considering seasonal variations and generational moderation.

Main Results:

• Greater school distance and belonging to the younger generation (G2) were negatively associated with ACS.
• High parental leisure-time PA and urban living were positively associated with ACS.
• Generational differences were noted, with school grade and parental income associations varying between G1 and G2.

Conclusions:

• Active commuting to school (ACS) was less prevalent in the younger generation.
• Several correlates of ACS were identified, highlighting significant generational differences.
• Findings can inform policies aimed at increasing ACS and overall PA in children and adolescents.