Eight of Ten Adolescents Fail Healthy Habits

---

Patterns and correlates of physical activity and nutrition behaviors in adolescents, by A. Sanchez and colleagues. Am J Prev Med 32:124-130, 2007

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Obesity and diabetes are growing problems in the U.S., particularly among young people. Although drugs and therapies can help many people, the best way to avoid the problems linked to obesity and diabetes is to adopt healthful habits, such as eating a balanced and nutritious diet and maintaining physical activity.

To a casual observer, it’s easy to see that young people are tempted by television, video games, snacks, and fast food, which can lead to unhealthful habits. But little is known about how common these habits are, and whether they tend to go together.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to get a fuller picture of how commonly young people engage in unhealthful habits, and whether certain habits tend to go together.

In particular, they wanted to see whether young people followed guidelines recommending adequate levels of physical activity, limiting television viewing to 2 hours a day, limiting the percentage of calories from fat, and eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables.

Who was studied?

The study included 878 adolescents, 11 to 15 years old, who were recruited through primary care providers in San Diego County.

How was the study done?

Each participant had a physical exam and completed a detailed survey to get information about their physical activity, diet, parental health behaviors, and other habits.

What did the researchers find?

More than half of the participants failed to meet physical activity guidelines, and 30% watched more than 2 hours of television per day. Most of the adolescents didn’t meet dietary guidelines. Almost 80% had multiple bad habits, and only 2% of participants met all four recommended guidelines.

What were the limitations of the study?

The study included only participants 11 to 15 years old who lived in the San Diego area and were seen in primary care medical practices. The results may not apply to other people. Also, the survey depended on what people remembered and reported, and may not be accurate.

What are the implications of the study?

Eight of ten adolescents failed to meet recommended guidelines for two or more healthful habits. Parents can help their children adopt better habits, and perhaps avoid the problems of obesity and diabetes.