Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity Patterns and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Urban Indian Children

Aaminah Kausar1, Sumithra Selvam2, Deepa Puttaswamy1

  • 1Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

Indian Pediatrics
|February 6, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Most Indian children do not get enough moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Lack of time for academics and facilities are key barriers, with low MVPA linked to higher blood pressure in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Childhood obesity and cardiometabolic risk are growing concerns in India.
  • Understanding physical activity patterns is crucial for preventative health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) duration in Indian children.
  • To identify barriers to physical activity.
  • To examine the association between MVPA and cardiometabolic risk factors.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 4004 urban children (aged 6-19) in Bengaluru, India.
  • Data collected via questionnaires on physical activity and barriers.
  • Measurements included anthropometry, body composition, blood pressure, HbA1c, and lipid profile.

Main Results:

  • 81% of children did not meet recommended MVPA levels, with girls disproportionately affected.
  • Children with no MVPA showed elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
  • Primary barriers identified were academic time constraints and lack of space/facilities.

Conclusions:

  • Indian children fall short of recommended daily MVPA.
  • Academic pressures and inadequate facilities significantly hinder physical activity.
  • Lack of MVPA is associated with increased blood pressure in this population.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Lifestyle Factors and Health01:20

Lifestyle Factors and Health

Lifestyle factors play a critical role in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases. Key elements, such as regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and abstinence from smoking, can significantly enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being while reducing the risk of several life-threatening conditions.
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
33
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response01:20

Exercise and Cardiovascular Response

Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
711
Factors Influencing Heart Rate01:30

Factors Influencing Heart Rate

The heart rate, or pulse rate, is a vital indicator of cardiovascular health. It reflects the number of times the heart beats per minute. Various physiological and environmental factors influence heart rate, increasing or decreasing cardiac output. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing heart function and identifying potential health issues.
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...
2.3K
Lung Capacity01:47

Lung Capacity

The air in the lungs is measured in volumes and capacities. Lung volume measures reflect the amount of air taken in, released, or left over after a lung function, like a single inhalation. Lung capacity measures are sums of two or more lung volume measures.
49.2K
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data01:23

Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data

A thorough health history and physical assessment are essential for identifying cardiovascular disease (CVD) symptoms and distinguishing them from other health issues.
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
264
Exercise and Cardiac Output01:17

Exercise and Cardiac Output

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, with aerobic exercises being particularly effective. According to the American Heart Association, 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic exercise per week is recommended for a healthy heart. Aerobic activities may include brisk walking, running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming, ideally performed three to five times per week.
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
895