Trends in Adolescent Obesity in Brazil
Author Information
Author(s): de Souza Fernanda Ulsula, Miranda Clair Costa, Bim Mateus Augusto, de Lima Luiz Rodrigo Augustemak, Gonzaga Isadora, Claumann Gaia Salvador, Beltrame Thais Silva, Pinto André de Araújo, Pelegrini Andreia
Primary Institution: Center for Health and Sports Sciences, Santa Catarina State University, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Hypothesis
What are the trends in excess weight among adolescents in Florianópolis, Brazil, from 2007 to 2017/2018?
Conclusion
The study found a significant increase in excess weight among adolescents over the decade, linked to physical activity levels, screen time, and muscle strength.
Supporting Evidence
- Boys who spent more than 4 hours a day on screens were 1.96 times more likely to be overweight.
- Adolescents with inadequate muscle strength had higher chances of being overweight.
- Those with adequate cardiorespiratory fitness had lower chances of being overweight.
Takeaway
Over the last ten years, more teenagers in Brazil are becoming overweight, especially those who spend too much time on screens and don't exercise enough.
Methodology
Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted with adolescents aged 14 to 19 years, measuring body mass index, physical activity, screen time, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Potential Biases
Potential social desirability bias in self-reported questionnaires.
Limitations
Self-reported data may lead to inaccuracies, and the sample was limited to public school students.
Participant Demographics
Adolescents aged 14 to 19 years from public schools in Florianópolis, Brazil.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.14–3.36 for boys with >4h screen time
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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