PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AND SCREEN-BASED ACTIVITIES IN MACEDONIAN SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADOLESCENTS: AN IMPORTANT PUBLIC HEALTH PRIORITY
Journal Title: Health Problems of Civilization - Year 2017, Vol 11, Issue 3
Abstract
<b>Background. </b> A wide range of studies have confirmed that insufficient physical activity levels and screen-based activities are key risk factors for overweight and obesity, chronic conditions and significant noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). More than 80% of the world’s adolescent population is insufficiently physically active. The objectives of our cross-section study were to estimate the level of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in school-aged children and young adolescents and a significant correlation between two groups, physically active and inactive groups, and overweight and obesity development. <b>Material and methods</b>. The sample size involved 400 randomly selected children and adolescent from 14 to 18 years old. The International Questionnaire for assessment of Physical Activity (IPAQ-F) was used to monitor physical activity levels and screen-based activities. The statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics, Pearson Chi-square test and Logistic regression analysis using SPSS Statistics17.0. <b>Results</b>. There was a significant difference in vigorous and moderate intensity physical activity between two groups. Screen-based activities exerted the highest influence on the development of childhood obesity. However, the unhealthy nutrition had a significant impact on obesity in school-aged children (14-15 years old), much more than vigorous and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. <b>Conclusions</b>. The prevention and treatment of overweight and obesity in children and adolescent require system-level approaches that would include the skills of sports physicians, registered dieticians/nutritionists, and sports coaches. They also need consistent and integrated messages and environmental support across all sectors of society, especially educational sector.
Authors and Affiliations
Vera Simovska, Rozida Jakimoska-Jordanoska, Andrej Simovski
Keywords
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- EP ID EP321694
- DOI 10.5114/hpc.2017.70002
- Views 63
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