Screen-based sedentary behaviours in Italian school children: the ZOOM8 study
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Published:2022-06-13
Issue:3
Volume:11
Page:
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ISSN:2282-0930
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Container-title:Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Public Health
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language:
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Short-container-title:ebph
Author:
Galfo Myriam,D'Addezio Laura,Censi Laura,Roccaldo Romana,Giostra Giordano
Abstract
Background: screen-based sedentary behaviours likely have a negative impact on many aspects of youth health and development. The purpose of this study was to describe the screen-based sedentary behaviours and to examine factors associated in a sample of Italian school children.
Methods: 2129 children, aged 8-9 years, from the three main geographical areas of Italy were involved. Body weight and height were measured. Screen-based sedentary behaviours were evaluated using a parent-reported questionnaire that included items about the time spent watching television (TV) and using computer/playstation and other electronic games. Pearson’s chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were conducted to study possible associated factors.
Results: more time was spent in screen-based sedentary activities during non-school days rather than on school days. More males than females watched television more than the recommended 2 hours a day and spent the same time using computer (PC), playstation and other electronic games. The presence of a TV in the child’s bedroom was significantly associated with geographical area, and inversely associated with mother’s education. Moreover, children with a TV in the bedroom had higher odds of being overweight/obese and watching TV more than 2 hours a day than those without a TV. According to multiple logistic regression gender, mother’s age and mother’s education were predictors of the total screen time.
Conclusions: Italian children spent a significant amount of time in screen-based sedentary behaviours, exceeding media recommendations. In addition gender, mother’s age and mother’s education were predictors of the total screen time.
Publisher
Milano University Press
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Community and Home Care,Health Policy,Epidemiology