A project proposal on Patterns and correlates of physical activity in families on Lolland-Falster.

Background: Physical inactivity has become an increasingly important topic in health promotion and health research. Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality causing an estimated 3.2 million deaths globally. Engaging in physical activity has a well-established preventive role for common lifestyle diseases such as diabetes type 2, cardiovascular disease and certain cancer types and contributes to quality of life. In Denmark, estimates (though possibly methodologically flawed) say that about 40% of the adult population does not meet the authorities' recommendation for 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day.
Parents are believed to play an important role in influencing their children’s health behavior. Yet, the results of studies on parent-child physical activity (or inactivity) correlations are mixed. Possible explanations for the inconsistent findings might be the use of different methodology for assessment of-as well as use of different definitions of physical activity. Current studies suggest that parental modeling effects in regard to physical activity differ by gender. Furthermore the influence of one versus two physically active parents may contribute positively to the physical activity level of the children in the family. Use of screen-based electronic media (e.g. smartphone-and tablet) may have considerably changed the way the families interact with each other. Research on these newer forms of media use in relation to parent-child interaction is lacking.
Design and methods: The present project is a cross-sectional study on a subsample of the large “The Lolland-Falster Health Study” (LOFUS). LOFUS is a comprehensive, cross-sectional population study. The study aim is to investigate patterns and correlates of physical activity in 1250 families on Lolland and Falster. Physical activity will be assessed objectively by using two accelerometers for seven consecutive days. Questionnaire about physical activity will be applied.
Perspectives: Understanding whether or how primary caregivers influence children’s physical activity could be important for identifying effective strategies for increasing children’s health and preventing the development of adverse health outcomes. The knowledge gained during this study will help us in the prevention against physical inactivity in the general population.