Rates of Obesity and Obesogenic Behaviors of Rural Appalachian Adolescents: How Do They Compare to Other Adolescents or Recommendations?

ABSTRACT:

Background

To better understand the unique challenges of Appalachians, community-based studies are needed to establish benchmark rates. This study compares obesity rates and obesogenic behaviors among Appalachian adolescents to other adolescent populations or clinical recommendations.

Methods

This study was conducted in 11 Appalachian schools. Body mass index, body mass index percentile, and body fat percentage were measured using a Tanita DC-430U analyzer. Physical activity was measured using Actigraph wGT3X-BT accelerometers. Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption was self-reported. Pearson's correlations, independent t tests, and multivariate analyses with tests of between-subject effects were conducted.

Results

Mean (n = 345) age was 15.23 (SD = 1.02) years. Appalac

SUBMITTER: Smith LH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6292710 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature