 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
|
| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Elaine Morschhauser, DC, Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research, 741 Brady Street, Davenport, IA 52803, 563-884-5167, morschhauser_e@palmer.edu, Kathleen F. Janz, EdD, Health and Sports Studies, University of Iowa, 102 Field House, Iowa City, IA 52242-1111, and Steven M. Levy, DDS, Preventive and Community Dentistry, University of Iowa, 336 Dental Science N., Iowa City, IA 52242-1010.
Introduction: A critical health issue today is the rapidly growing prevalence of childhood obesity and subsequent increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Physical inactivity is a modifiable behavior for preventing or reversing obesity. Physical activity determinants have been well-studied in adults, but not so in children and youth. These determinants including environmental factors must be understood in order to develop effective obesity interventions for children and youth.
Methods: This cross-sectional study will examine associations between the population density of the place of residence and level of physical activity in 467 preschool children (range: 4-6 years). Physical activity was measured using 4-day accelerometry readings and parental report of children’s usual physical activity. Differences in types of physical activity, such as outdoor vs. indoor play, vigorous vs. moderate activity, and participation in organized sports will be studied as well.
Results: Data analysis is underway as of the abstract submission deadline and will be completed in summer, 2003. We will examine associations between variations in geographic density of place of residence (as determined by census data and participants’ addresses) and level and types of physical activity.
Discussion: Presentation will discuss ways to improve physical activity recommendations to parents by considering the influence of rural-ness (population density) on the levels and types of physical activity engaged in by young children. Awareness and understanding of children’s physical activity levels and how they differ among areas of varying population density can provide insight to chiropractors delivering preventive measures including health-related physical activity guidelines.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Physical Activity, Child Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.