Association between physical activity and sedentary behavior and obesity in schoolchildren: case-control study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v73.112101Keywords:
Body mass index , child, physical activity, studentsAbstract
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a public health problem influenced by inactive lifestyles.
Objective: To determine the association between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and obesity among schoolchildren in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Methodology: A case-control study was conducted with 414 schoolchildren (202 cases with overweight/obesity and 212 normal-weight controls). Body weight was measured using a Kenwell digital scale, Model DT612, and height with a Kramer stadiometer. Physical activity was assessed through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire for Schoolchildren (IPAQ-C). The association between variables was analyzed using binary logistic regression.
Results: The Body Mass Index in cases was 23.6±3.5 kg/m², compared to 17.5±1.8 kg/m² in controls. A total of 62.6% of controls and 37.4% of cases met the recommended levels of physical activity. Moreover, 49.4% of controls and 50.6% of cases reported spending more than one hour daily in sedentary activities. Schoolchildren with low levels of physical activity were more likely to present overweight or obesity [OR 2.7; 95% CI: 1.8–4], as were girls [OR 2.7; 95% CI: 1.5–4.8] and boys [OR 2.6; 95% CI: 1.5–4.7].
Discussion: These findings are consistent with previous studies demonstrating the relationship between childhood obesity and low levels of physical activity.
Conclusions: Engaging in physical activity contributes to maintaining normal body weight values among schoolchildren. A significant association exists between physical activity and body composition.
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