Physical activity in the Lolland-Falster Health Study

Aim: The Lolland-Falster Health Study (LOFUS) is an ongoing household-based prospective cohort study including residents of all ages from a disadvantaged, mixed rural-provincial area of Denmark. The baseline data collection is comprehensive and includes assessment of habitual physical activity (PA), which creates a basis for examination of PA as a determinant of health and disease and exploration of patterns, correlates and predictors of PA in families with children.
Methods: PA is measured continuously for seven days in all members of families with children aged 0-17 years (expected n=1600 participants nested within n=500 families) using one accelerometer (Axivity AX3) on the back and another on the thigh. Self-reported information on screen time, transportation, sports participation and leisure time PA is collected via age-specific electronic questionnaires.
Results: The fact that LOFUS is based on households allows for analysis of both intra- and inter-family risk factors and diseases; these being related to socio-economic factors, genetics, the environment as well as health related behaviours. The LOFUS database provides opportunities for a wide range of studies related to PA. A sub-study on family patterns of PA using both accelerometer data and self-reported data has been planned.
Conclusions: The LOFUS may provide novel insight into PA as a determinant and into patterns, correlates and predictors of PA in a disadvantaged Danish population of young people and adults.

Acknowledgments: Region Zealand, Lolland Municipality, Guldborgsund Municipality and Nykøbing F. Hospital sponsor the Lolland-Falster Health Study.