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Gkintoni E, Vantaraki F, Skoulidi C, Anastassopoulos P, Vantarakis A. Promoting Physical and Mental Health among Children and Adolescents via Gamification-A Conceptual Systematic Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:102. [PMID: 38392455 PMCID: PMC10886329 DOI: 10.3390/bs14020102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid growth in digital technology usage among children and adolescents has highlighted the need for novel approaches to promote their physical and mental health. This paper investigates the viability of gamification-the application of game mechanics to non-gaming contexts-as a potent instrument for health promotion and mental health support. This conceptual systematic review seeks to examine the various published articles promoting children and adolescents' physical and mental health through gamified techniques. These interventions can provide an interactive and engaging platform for encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy nutrition, enhancing emotional regulation, and promoting mental health. The significance of this topic stems from the pervasive use of electronic games, beginning at a young age, which makes them popular educational tools. For the review to be systematic and reproducible, the PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed, and Elsevier databases were searched and the PRISMA method was utilized for the analysis. After analyzing the research data, empirical studies assessing the use of gamification in promoting adolescents' physical and mental health are discussed. In conclusion, gamification has demonstrated promise for promoting children's and adolescents' physical and mental health. It improves motivation, commitment, and adherence to healthy behaviors. However, additional research is required to evaluate gamification interventions' long-term effectiveness and sustainability in promoting health behaviors among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Gkintoni
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | - Fedra Vantaraki
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | | | | | - Apostolos Vantarakis
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
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Mohd Sidek NN, Mat Rosly M, Abd Razak NA. Children's Physiological and Perceptual Responses to Sports Exergames When Played in Different Positions. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1489. [PMID: 37761450 PMCID: PMC10529419 DOI: 10.3390/children10091489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Today's children are prone to becoming involved in exergames, but their positions during play have not been sufficiently investigated to determine whether the positions they adopt result in equal responses. The design of this study involved the collection of physiological and perceptual responses (i.e., heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion, and enjoyment score) during exergames in three different sports (bowling, tennis, and boxing) with players in different positions (sitting and standing). The participants played each game for 10 min while their HR was recorded. After the gameplay, each perceptual response was retrieved. The results revealed a significant increase in HR above rest during exergaming overall (p < 0.001). Standing gameplay resulted in a significantly higher HR (p < 0.001) than seated gameplay. Compared to tennis and bowling, boxing produced the highest physiological response (p < 0.001) and perceived exertion (p < 0.05) in both positions. The participants perceived all the sports exergames to be enjoyable, as their enjoyment scores did not significantly differ for each game (p > 0.5). For all the variables, no statistically significant differences between genders were identified (p > 0.5). This home-based intervention demonstrated that sports exergames are not only enjoyable; overall, they can provide at least moderately intense physical activity, whether played seated or standing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Nashruha Mohd Sidek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (N.N.M.S.); (N.A.A.R.)
| | - Maziah Mat Rosly
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Nasrul Anuar Abd Razak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (N.N.M.S.); (N.A.A.R.)
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Visier-Alfonso ME, Sánchez-López M, Rodríguez-Martín B, Ruiz-Hermosa A, Bartolomé-Gutiérrez R, Sequí-Domínguez I, Martínez-Vizcaíno V. Parents' Perceptions of Children's and Adolescents' Use of Electronic Devices to Promote Physical Activity: Systematic Review of Qualitative Evidence. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e44753. [PMID: 37471127 PMCID: PMC10401398 DOI: 10.2196/44753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of physical activity (PA) electronic devices offers a unique opportunity to engage children and adolescents in PA. For this age group (2-17 years), parents play a key role in promoting healthy lifestyles and regulating the use of electronic devices. Therefore, parents' perceptions of the use of electronic devices for PA in children and adolescents are critical for efficient intervention. OBJECTIVE The aim of this qualitative systematic review was to improve the understanding of parents' perceptions of the use of electronic devices for PA in children and adolescents. METHODS A systematic search of electronic databases (Medline/PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Scopus, OpenGrey, and Deep Blue) was conducted. Studies from inception (2010) to May 2022 were identified. Qualitative studies on the perceptions of healthy children's and adolescents' (aged 2-17 years) parents regarding PA interventions performed on electronic devices were included according to the Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group Guidance Series and the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) statement. The Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument was used for methodological validity. RESULTS In total, 18 studies with 410 parents, mostly mothers, were included. Parents' perceptions were grouped into 4 categories: usefulness, advantages, general perceptions (electronic devices for health promotion, preferences for real-life PA, and concerns), and acceptability (barriers and facilitators) of electronic devices for PA. Parents perceived electronic devices as useful for increasing PA, learning new skills, and increasing motivation for PA and valued those devices that promoted socialization and family and peer bonding. In terms of general perceptions, parents had positive attitudes toward PA electronic devices; however, they preferred outdoor and real-life PA, especially for preschoolers and children. Concerns, such as physical and psychological harm, addiction, conflicts, and compliance difficulties, were found. Facilitators were identified as ease of use, appropriate feedback, promotion of socialization, and motivational strategies, such as rewards, challenges, and attractiveness. Barriers, such as discomfort, price, and difficulties in using or understanding electronic devices, were also identified. For older children and adolescents, parents were more concerned about high levels of screen time and setting limits on electronic devices and therefore preferred PA electronic devices rather than traditional ones. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the participants had positive attitudes toward electronic devices for PA and perceived them as an effective way to promote PA in children and adolescents. They also perceived several benefits of using electronic devices, such as health promotion, increased awareness and motivation, and socialization, as well as barriers, facilitators, and age differences. The results of this study could provide researchers with insights into designing more effective, age-appropriate PA electronic devices for children and adolescents and improving adherence to their use. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021292340; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=292340.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Beatriz Rodríguez-Martín
- Faculty of Occupational Therapy, Logopedia and Nursing, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Talavera de la Reina, Spain
| | - Abel Ruiz-Hermosa
- Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Body Expression, Faculty of Sports and Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | | | - Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Health and Social Research Center, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
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Oh C, Carducci B, Vaivada T, Bhutta ZA. Digital Interventions for Universal Health Promotion in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics 2022; 149:186946. [PMID: 35503335 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-053852h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Digital media has been used mostly to deliver clinical treatments and therapies; however limited evidence evaluates digital interventions for health promotion. The objective of this review is to identify digital interventions for universal health promotion in school-aged children and adolescents globally. METHODS Eligible articles were searched in PubMed, Embase, Medline, Ovid SP, The Cochrane Library, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, WHO regional databases, Google Scholar, and reference lists from 2000 to March 2021. Randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies evaluating interventions that promote health in school-aged children and adolescents (5-19.9 years) were included. Methods were conducted in duplicate. Where possible, data were pooled with a random-effects model. RESULTS Seventy-four studies were included (46 998 participants), of which 37 were meta-analyzed (19 312 participants). Interventions increased fruit and vegetable consumption (servings per day) (mean difference [MD] 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21 to 1.04; studies = 6; P = .003; high quality of evidence), and probably reduced sedentary behavior (MD -19.62, 95% CI -36.60 to -2.65; studies = 6; P = .02; moderate quality of evidence), and body fat percentage (MD -0.35%, 95% CI -0.63 to -0.06; studies = 5; P = .02; low quality of evidence). The majority of studies were conducted in high-income countries and significant heterogeneity in design and methodology limit generalizability of results. CONCLUSIONS There is great potential in digital platforms for universal health promotion; however, more robust methods and study designs are necessitated. Continued research should assess factors that limit research and program implementation in low- to middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Oh
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bianca Carducci
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario,Canada
| | - Tyler Vaivada
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario,Canada.,Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
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Ho RST, Chan EKY, Liu KKY, Wong SHS. Active video game on children and adolescents' physical activity and weight management: A network meta-analysis. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2022; 32:1268-1286. [PMID: 35485251 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We synthesized evidence on the effectiveness of active video games (AVGs) versus no AVG-applied comparators on various physical activity (PA) levels and weight management outcomes in children and adolescents. We analyzed the comparative evidence on different sub-categories of AVGs and ranking the best option. An overview of systematic reviews (SRs) and network meta-analysis (NMA) (PROSPERO: CRD42021248499) was employed. A search for relevant literature published in English was conducted in six electronic databases from their inception until April 2021. SRs consisting of randomized control trials (RCTs) and satisfying our PICOS inclusion criteria were included. RCTs included were a comparison of groups among children and adolescents between 6 and 21, where groups with AVG interventions were compared with groups without them. Direct head-to-head pairwise meta-analyses were conducted using weighted mean difference between the two groups, and the comparative effectiveness of different sub-categories of AVGs was analyzed indirectly using NMA. Overall, 17 SRs were identified from the 6036 screened citations. Of these, 350 citations were retrieved, and 12 RCTs were finally included. Compared with no AVG group, AVG groups were shown to be more effective in achieving vigorous, moderate-to-vigorous, and moderate PA levels, and decreased BMI and body fat. NMA showed that rhythmic dance games had the highest probability of being the most effective sub-category for reducing BMI. AVGs are effective in attaining vigorous, moderate to vigorous, and moderate PA levels, and reducing BMI and body fat among children and adolescents. Dance appears to be the best option for reducing BMI among AVG subcategories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Sze-Tak Ho
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eddie Ka-Yui Chan
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kenneth Kang-Yue Liu
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stephen Heung-Sang Wong
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Alotaibi M, Alnajjar F, Cappuccio M, Khalid S, Alhmiedat T, Mubin O. Efficacy of Emerging Technologies to Manage Childhood Obesity. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2022; 15:1227-1244. [PMID: 35480851 PMCID: PMC9037732 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s357176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood obesity is a widespread medical condition and presents a formidable challenge for public health. Long-term treatment strategies and early prevention strategies are required because obese children are more likely to carry this condition into adulthood, increasing their risk of developing other major health disorders. The present review analyses various technological interventions available for childhood obesity prevention and treatment. It also examines whether machine learning and technological interventions can play vital roles in its management. Twenty-six studies were shortlisted for the review using various technological strategies and analysed regarding their efficacy. While most of the selected studies showed positive outcomes, there was a lack of studies using robots and artificial intelligence to manage obesity in children. The use of machine learning was observed in various studies, and the integration of social robots and other efficacious strategies may be effective for treating childhood obesity in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alotaibi
- Faculty of Computers and Information Technology, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fady Alnajjar
- College of Information Technology, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Massimiliano Cappuccio
- School of Engineering and IT, University of New South Wales Canberra, Canberra, Australia
| | - Sumaya Khalid
- College of Information Technology, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tareq Alhmiedat
- Faculty of Computers and Information Technology, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
- Industrial Innovation & Robotics Center, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Mubin
- School of Computer, Data and Mathematical Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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Morita N, Ishihara T, Yamamoto R, Shide N, Okuda T. Content validity and reliability of an enjoyable multicomponent agility test for boys: The N-challenge test. J Sports Sci 2022; 40:976-983. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2022.2043698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noriteru Morita
- Department of Sports Cultural Studies, Hokkaido University of Education, Iwamizawa, Japan
| | - Toru Ishihara
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Rihito Yamamoto
- Department of Sports Cultural Studies, Hokkaido University of Education, Iwamizawa, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Shide
- Department of Sports Cultural Studies, Hokkaido University of Education, Iwamizawa, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Okuda
- Department of Sports Cultural Studies, Hokkaido University of Education, Iwamizawa, Japan
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Qiu LT, Sun GX, Li L, Zhang JD, Wang D, Fan BY. Effectiveness of multiple eHealth-delivered lifestyle strategies for preventing or intervening overweight/obesity among children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:999702. [PMID: 36157474 PMCID: PMC9491112 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.999702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of multiple eHealth-delivered lifestyle interventions on obesity-related anthropometric outcomes in children and adolescents. METHODS The Medline (via PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CBM, VIP, CNKI, and Wanfang electronic databases were systematically searched from their inception to March 18, 2022, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Meta-analyses were performed to investigate the effect of multiple eHealth-delivered lifestyle interventions on obesity-related anthropometric outcomes (body mass index [BMI], BMI Z-score, waist circumference, body weight, and body fat%). Two independent investigators reviewed the studies for accuracy and completeness. All included studies were evaluated using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias (ROB) Tool. RESULTS Forty trials comprising 6,403 patients were selected for the meta-analysis. The eligible trials were published from 2006 to 2022. Compared with the control group, the eHealth-intervention group was more effective in reducing BMI (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.50 to -0.13, I2 = 85.9%), BMI Z-score (WMD = -0.08, 95% CI: -0.14 to -0.03, I2 = 89.1%), waist circumference (WMD = -0.87, 95% CI: -1.70 to -0.04, I2 = 43.3%), body weight (WMD = -0.96, 95% CI: -1.55 to -0.37, I2 = 0.0%), and body fat% (WMD = -0.59, 95% CI: -1.08 to -0.10, I2 = 0.0%). The subgroup analysis showed that parental or school involvement (WMD = -0.66, 95% CI: -0.98 to -0.34), eHealth-intervention duration of >12 weeks (WMD = -0.67, 95% CI: -0.96 to -0.38), and mobile-based interventions (WMD = -0.78, 95% CI: -1.13 to -0.43) had a significantly greater intervention effect size on BMI. CONCLUSIONS This review recommends that multiple eHealth-delivered lifestyle strategies may be useful for preventing or treating overweight and obesity among children and adolescents. However, our results should be cautiously interpreted due to certain limitations in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ting Qiu
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Gui-Xiang Sun
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Institute of Chinese Medicine Diagnosis, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Gui-Xiang Sun, ; Ling Li,
| | - Ling Li
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Gui-Xiang Sun, ; Ling Li,
| | - Ji-Dong Zhang
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Dan Wang
- School of Physical Education and Health, Hunan University of Technology and Business, Changsha, China
| | - Bo-Yan Fan
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
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Neil-Sztramko SE, Caldwell H, Dobbins M. School-based physical activity programs for promoting physical activity and fitness in children and adolescents aged 6 to 18. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 9:CD007651. [PMID: 34555181 PMCID: PMC8459921 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007651.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity among children and adolescents is associated with lower adiposity, improved cardio-metabolic health, and improved fitness. Worldwide, fewer than 30% of children and adolescents meet global physical activity recommendations of at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day. Schools may be ideal sites for interventions given that children and adolescents in most parts of the world spend a substantial amount of time in transit to and from school or attending school. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this review update is to summarise the evidence on effectiveness of school-based interventions in increasing moderate to vigorous physical activity and improving fitness among children and adolescents 6 to 18 years of age. Specific objectives are: • to evaluate the effects of school-based interventions on increasing physical activity and improving fitness among children and adolescents; • to evaluate the effects of school-based interventions on improving body composition; and • to determine whether certain combinations or components (or both) of school-based interventions are more effective than others in promoting physical activity and fitness in this target population. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, BIOSIS, SPORTDiscus, and Sociological Abstracts to 1 June 2020, without language restrictions. We screened reference lists of included articles and relevant systematic reviews. We contacted primary authors of studies to ask for additional information. SELECTION CRITERIA Eligible interventions were relevant to public health practice (i.e. were not delivered by a clinician), were implemented in the school setting, and aimed to increase physical activity among all school-attending children and adolescents (aged 6 to 18) for at least 12 weeks. The review was limited to randomised controlled trials. For this update, we have added two new criteria: the primary aim of the study was to increase physical activity or fitness, and the study used an objective measure of physical activity or fitness. Primary outcomes included proportion of participants meeting physical activity guidelines and duration of moderate to vigorous physical activity and sedentary time (new to this update). Secondary outcomes included measured body mass index (BMI), physical fitness, health-related quality of life (new to this update), and adverse events (new to this update). Television viewing time, blood cholesterol, and blood pressure have been removed from this update. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two independent review authors used standardised forms to assess each study for relevance, to extract data, and to assess risk of bias. When discrepancies existed, discussion occurred until consensus was reached. Certainty of evidence was assessed according to GRADE. A random-effects meta-analysis based on the inverse variance method was conducted with participants stratified by age (children versus adolescents) when sufficient data were reported. Subgroup analyses explored effects by intervention type. MAIN RESULTS Based on the three new inclusion criteria, we excluded 16 of the 44 studies included in the previous version of this review. We screened an additional 9968 titles (search October 2011 to June 2020), of which 978 unique studies were potentially relevant and 61 met all criteria for this update. We included a total of 89 studies representing complete data for 66,752 study participants. Most studies included children only (n = 56), followed by adolescents only (n = 22), and both (n = 10); one study did not report student age. Multi-component interventions were most common (n = 40), followed by schooltime physical activity (n = 19), enhanced physical education (n = 15), and before and after school programmes (n = 14); one study explored both enhanced physical education and an after school programme. Lack of blinding of participants, personnel, and outcome assessors and loss to follow-up were the most common sources of bias. Results show that school-based physical activity interventions probably result in little to no increase in time engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity (mean difference (MD) 0.73 minutes/d, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.16 to 1.30; 33 studies; moderate-certainty evidence) and may lead to little to no decrease in sedentary time (MD -3.78 minutes/d, 95% CI -7.80 to 0.24; 16 studies; low-certainty evidence). School-based physical activity interventions may improve physical fitness reported as maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) (MD 1.19 mL/kg/min, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.82; 13 studies; low-certainty evidence). School-based physical activity interventions may result in a very small decrease in BMI z-scores (MD -0.06, 95% CI -0.09 to -0.02; 21 studies; low-certainty evidence) and may not impact BMI expressed as kg/m² (MD -0.07, 95% CI -0.15 to 0.01; 50 studies; low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain whether school-based physical activity interventions impact health-related quality of life or adverse events. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Given the variability of results and the overall small effects, school staff and public health professionals must give the matter considerable thought before implementing school-based physical activity interventions. Given the heterogeneity of effects, the risk of bias, and findings that the magnitude of effect is generally small, results should be interpreted cautiously.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hilary Caldwell
- Department of Kinesiology, Child Health & Exercise Medicine Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Maureen Dobbins
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, Hamilton, Canada
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Gamification for the Improvement of Diet, Nutritional Habits, and Body Composition in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13072478. [PMID: 34371989 PMCID: PMC8308535 DOI: 10.3390/nu13072478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, one of the main public health problems among children and adolescents is poor adherence to healthy habits, leading to increasingly high rates of obesity and the comorbidities that accompany obesity. Early interventions are necessary, and among them, the use of gamification can be an effective method. The objective was to analyse the effect of game-based interventions (gamification) for improving nutritional habits, knowledge, and changes in body composition. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed in CINAHL, EMBASE, LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO, and Scopus databases, following the PRISMA recommendations. There was no restriction by year of publication or language. Only randomized controlled trials were included. Twenty-three articles were found. After the intervention, the consumption of fruit and vegetables increased, as well as the knowledge on healthy food groups. The means difference showed a higher nutritional knowledge score in the intervention group 95% CI 0.88 (0.05–1.75). No significant effect of gamification was found for body mass index z-score. Gamification could be an effective method to improve nutritional knowledge about healthier nutritional habits. Promoting the development of effective educational tools to support learning related to nutrition is necessary in order to avoid and prevent chronic diseases.
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Tsiros MD, Vincent HK, Getchell N, Shultz SP. Helping Children with Obesity "Move Well" To Move More: An Applied Clinical Review. Curr Sports Med Rep 2021; 20:374-383. [PMID: 34234093 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000000861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Children with obesity experience musculoskeletal pain and reduced physical function and well-being, which collectively impact their fitness, strength, motor skills, and even their ability to undertake simple tasks, like walking and climbing stairs. Disrupting obesity-related disability may be critical to increasing children's physical activity. Thus, barriers to movement should be considered by health practitioners to improve the efficacy of prescribed physical activity. This applied clinical review highlights key subjective and objective findings from a hypothetical case scenario, linking those findings to the research evidence, before exploring strategies to enhance movement and increase physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita D Tsiros
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, SA, AUSTRALIA
| | - Heather K Vincent
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Nancy Getchell
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE
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Comeras-Chueca C, Marin-Puyalto J, Matute-Llorente A, Vicente-Rodriguez G, Casajus JA, Gonzalez-Aguero A. The Effects of Active Video Games on Health-Related Physical Fitness and Motor Competence in Children and Adolescents with Healthy Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18136965. [PMID: 34209767 PMCID: PMC8296862 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18136965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Poor levels of physical fitness and motor skills are problems for today’s children. Active video games (AVG) could be an attractive strategy to help address them. The aim was to investigate the effects of AVG on health-related physical fitness and motor competence in children and adolescents with healthy weight. (2) Methods: Randomized and non-randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of AVG programs on health-related physical fitness and motor competence were included. Two different quality assessment tools were used to measure the risk of bias. Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria and the variables of interest were body mass index (BMI), body fat, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), muscular fitness and motor competence. (3) Results: AVG interventions seem to have benefits in BMI when lasting longer than 18 weeks (SMD, −0.590; 95% IC, −1.071, −0.108) and in CRF (SMD, 0.438; 95% IC, 0.022, 0.855). AVG seems to be a promising tool to improve muscular fitness and motor competence but the effects are still unclear due to the lack of evidence. (4) Conclusions: AVG seem to be an effective tool for improving some components of health-related physical fitness and motor competence in healthy-weight children and adolescents, but the effect on some fitness components needs further research. Therefore, AVG may be included as a strategy to improve health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Comeras-Chueca
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Science, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (C.C.-C.); (J.A.C.)
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.M.-P.); (A.M.-L.); (G.V.-R.)
- EXERNET, Red de Investigación en Ejercicio Físico y Salud Para Poblaciones Especiales, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jorge Marin-Puyalto
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.M.-P.); (A.M.-L.); (G.V.-R.)
- EXERNET, Red de Investigación en Ejercicio Físico y Salud Para Poblaciones Especiales, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health and Sport Science (FCSD), Universidad de Zaragoza, 22001 Huesca, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Angel Matute-Llorente
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.M.-P.); (A.M.-L.); (G.V.-R.)
- EXERNET, Red de Investigación en Ejercicio Físico y Salud Para Poblaciones Especiales, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health and Sport Science (FCSD), Universidad de Zaragoza, 22001 Huesca, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - German Vicente-Rodriguez
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.M.-P.); (A.M.-L.); (G.V.-R.)
- EXERNET, Red de Investigación en Ejercicio Físico y Salud Para Poblaciones Especiales, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health and Sport Science (FCSD), Universidad de Zaragoza, 22001 Huesca, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose A. Casajus
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Science, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (C.C.-C.); (J.A.C.)
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.M.-P.); (A.M.-L.); (G.V.-R.)
- EXERNET, Red de Investigación en Ejercicio Físico y Salud Para Poblaciones Especiales, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alex Gonzalez-Aguero
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.M.-P.); (A.M.-L.); (G.V.-R.)
- EXERNET, Red de Investigación en Ejercicio Físico y Salud Para Poblaciones Especiales, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health and Sport Science (FCSD), Universidad de Zaragoza, 22001 Huesca, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Truong K, Park S, Tsiros MD, Milne N. Physiotherapy and related management for childhood obesity: A systematic scoping review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252572. [PMID: 34125850 PMCID: PMC8202913 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite targeted efforts globally to address childhood overweight/obesity, it remains poorly understood and challenging to manage. Physiotherapists have the potential to manage children with obesity as they are experts in movement and physical activity. However, their role remains unclear due to a lack of physiotherapy-specific guidelines. This scoping review aims to explore existing literature, critically appraising and synthesising findings to guide physiotherapists in the evidence-based management of childhood overweight/obesity. METHOD A scoping review was conducted, including literature up to May 2020. A review protocol exists on Open Science Framework at https://osf.io/fap8g/. Four databases were accessed including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Medline via OVID, with grey literature searched through google via "file:pdf". A descriptive synthesis was undertaken to explore the impact of existing interventions and their efficacy. RESULTS From the initial capture of 1871 articles, 263 intervention-based articles were included. Interventions included qualitative focused physical activity, quantitative focused physical activity and multicomponent interventions. Various outcome measures were utilised including health-, performance- and behaviour-related outcomes. The general trend for physiotherapy involvement with children who are obese appears to favour: 1) multicomponent interventions, implementing more than one component with environmental modification and parental involvement and 2) quantitative physical activity interventions, focusing on the quantity of bodily movement. These approaches most consistently demonstrated desirable changes across behavioural and health-related outcome measures for multicomponent and quantitative physical activity interventions respectively. CONCLUSION When managing children with obesity, physiotherapists should consider multicomponent approaches and increasing the quantity of physical activity, given consistent improvements in various obesity-related outcomes. Such approaches are well suited to the scope of physiotherapists and their expertise in physical activity prescription for the management of childhood obesity. Future research should examine the effect of motor skill interventions and consider the role of environmental modification/parental involvement as factors contributing to intervention success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Truong
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sandra Park
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Margarita D. Tsiros
- UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nikki Milne
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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Vaccari F, Fiori F, Bravo G, Parpinel M, Messina G, Malavolta R, Lazzer S. Physical fitness reference standards in Italian children. Eur J Pediatr 2021; 180:1789-1798. [PMID: 33511465 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-03946-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Physical fitness in childhood is considered a marker of current and future health. For this reason, there is a need for a simple but reliable test to assess the different components of physical fitness even at school during physical education lessons. However, standard values are required to correctly interpret the results of such tests. Hence, this study aimed to generate sex- and age-specific normative percentile values for health-related physical fitness in Italian children. To this aim, 30,472 children aged 6-11 years from the Friuli Venezia-Giulia region (Italy) were examined. The fitness test battery included the Léger test (cardiorespiratory), the shuttle test (agility), standing long jumps, frontal throws of a basketball (lower and upper limb strength), the sit-and-reach test (flexibility), and the standing balance test. Sex- and age-percentile curves were determined using the General Additive Model for Location Scale and Shape (GAMLSS).Conclusion: The reference standards are provided as 1st, 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, 97th, and 99th percentiles in the form of both tables and charts and are roughly comparable with those of other European children. What is Known: • Physical fitness in childhood is considered a marker of current and future health; • Several tests have been developed to assess physical fitness in children; • There are general European reference standards for a series of tests of the main fitness components for children. What is New: • The present study provides specific reference standards for a series of tests that are indicative of the main fitness components and easily applied in children, particularly those in the Italian population; • Standing balance test and basketball frontal throw test references in a wide sample of children; • The performance of children in the present study was roughly comparable to that of other European children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Vaccari
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Federica Fiori
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Giulia Bravo
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Parpinel
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Regional School of Sport, Italian Olympic Committee, Trieste, Italy
- School of Sport Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Lazzer
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, P.le Kolbe 4, 33100, Udine, Italy
- School of Sport Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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15
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Woessner MN, Tacey A, Levinger-Limor A, Parker AG, Levinger P, Levinger I. The Evolution of Technology and Physical Inactivity: The Good, the Bad, and the Way Forward. Front Public Health 2021; 9:655491. [PMID: 34123989 PMCID: PMC8193221 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.655491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of time people explored and developed new technologies to make their activities of daily living less labour intense, more efficient and, consequently, more sedentary. In addition, technological advances in medicine throughout history have led to a substantial increase in life expectancy. However, the combination of increased sedentary behaviour and increased life-expectancy resulted in a sharp increase in overweight and obesity related chronic conditions and illness. Although people may live longer, they are doing so with poorer physical function and a reduced quality of life. In this review we explore how technological advances have influenced people's sedentary behaviour and, through the lens of the affective-reflective theory (ART), we propose a means by which technology could be repurposed to encourage greater engagement in physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary N Woessner
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexander Tacey
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), University of Melbourne and Western Health, St Albans, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Alexandra G Parker
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Pazit Levinger
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Itamar Levinger
- Institute for Health and Sport (iHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), University of Melbourne and Western Health, St Albans, VIC, Australia
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Child's body mass index and mother's obesity: the moderating role of physical fitness. Eur J Pediatr 2021; 180:843-850. [PMID: 32940742 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-020-03810-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to verify the association between children's body mass index and their mother's obesity, considering children's physical fitness as a possible moderator. Cross-sectional study developed with 1842 children and adolescents, aged seven to 17 years, from Santa Cruz do Sul-RS, Brazil. Body weight and height were assessed to determine body mass index. Cardiorespiratory fitness was determined by the 6-min walk/run test and muscular strength through the lower limb strength test. Mother's perception of obesity was self-assessed. Moderation was tested through a SPSS program extension. Results indicated that higher children's body mass index (p < 0.001) and lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness (p = 0.001) and muscular strength (p = 0.035) were associated with mother's obesity. Likewise, higher body mass index (p < 0.001) and lower cardiorespiratory fitness (p < 0.001) in adolescents were associated with maternal obesity. Moreover, physical fitness moderates the relationship between body mass index and mother's obesity in children (cardiorespiratory fitness: β = - 0.006; 95% CI = (- 0.010, - 0.001); muscular strength: β = - 8.415; 95% CI = (- 12.526, - 4.304)) and in adolescents (cardiorespiratory fitness: β = - 0.004; 95% CI = (- 0.008, - 0.0008); muscular strength: β - 2.958; 95% CI = (- 5.615, - 0.030)).Conclusion: increasing physical fitness is an important strategy to protect youths from high body mass index, when their mothers are obese. What is Known: • Mother's obesity is associated with their children's body mass index. • Parents' obesity is associated with their children's physical fitness What is New: • Cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength are moderators in the relationship between mother's obesity and BMI of their children. • Children and adolescents with high cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength levels are protected against elevated body mass index, considering mother's obesity.
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17
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Dong X, Ding L, Zhang R, Ding M, Wang B, Yi X. Physical Activity, Screen-Based Sedentary Behavior and Physical Fitness in Chinese Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:722079. [PMID: 34676185 PMCID: PMC8524360 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.722079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between screen-based sedentary behavior, physical activity and physical fitness among Chinese adolescents. Methods: This study randomly selected adolescents from 10 administrative districts in Shandong, China. The data gathering tools for demographic and other characteristics (gender, age, body mass index and socioeconomic status), PA (PAQ-A) and screen-based sedentary behavior (YRBSS) and physical fitness (NSPFH 2014) were utilized in this study. Statistical analysis was performed by T-test, chi-square test and multiple linear regression. Results: 10,002 adolescents (14.39 years ± 1.79) participated in the study. The results demonstrated that BMI and high TV viewing time had a significant negative correlation with physical fitness, but there was no association between the amount of time spent playing computer/video games and physical fitness among adolescents. High SES and physical activity in leisure time five or more times per week were significantly associated with most dimensions of physical fitness. Conclusions: the results suggest that we not only need to focus on adolescent risk behavior associated with low socioeconomic status and obesity, but also enforce physical activity and reduce sedentary television-watching behavior, which will be crucial pathways and strategies to improve the physical fitness of Chinese adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosheng Dong
- College of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lijie Ding
- Department of Health Management, Shandong Sports University, Jinan, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- College of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Meng Ding
- College of Physical Education, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Baozhen Wang
- Department of Toxicology and Nutrition, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangren Yi
- College of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Fowler LA, Grammer AC, Staiano AE, Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Chen L, Yaeger LH, Wilfley DE. Harnessing technological solutions for childhood obesity prevention and treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis of current applications. Int J Obes (Lond) 2021; 45:957-981. [PMID: 33627775 PMCID: PMC7904036 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-00765-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Technology holds promise for delivery of accessible, individualized, and destigmatized obesity prevention and treatment to youth. OBJECTIVES This review examined the efficacy of recent technology-based interventions on weight outcomes. METHODS Seven databases were searched in April 2020 following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were: participants aged 1-18 y, use of technology in a prevention/treatment intervention for overweight/obesity; weight outcome; randomized controlled trial (RCT); and published after January 2014. Random effects models with inverse variance weighting estimated pooled mean effect sizes separately for treatment and prevention interventions. Meta-regressions examined the effect of technology type (telemedicine or technology-based), technology purpose (stand-alone or adjunct), comparator (active or no-contact control), delivery (to parent, child, or both), study type (pilot or not), child age, and intervention duration. FINDINGS In total, 3406 records were screened for inclusion; 55 studies representing 54 unique RCTs met inclusion criteria. Most (89%) included articles were of high or moderate quality. Thirty studies relied mostly or solely on technology for intervention delivery. Meta-analyses of the 20 prevention RCTs did not show a significant effect of prevention interventions on weight outcomes (d = 0.05, p = 0.52). The pooled mean effect size of n = 32 treatment RCTs showed a small, significant effect on weight outcomes (d = ‒0.13, p = 0.001), although 27 of 33 treatment studies (79%) did not find significant differences between treatment and comparators. There were significantly greater treatment effects on outcomes for pilot interventions, interventions delivered to the child compared to parent-delivered interventions, and as child age increased and intervention duration decreased. No other subgroup analyses were significant. CONCLUSIONS Recent technology-based interventions for the treatment of pediatric obesity show small effects on weight; however, evidence is inconclusive on the efficacy of technology based prevention interventions. Research is needed to determine the comparative effectiveness of technology-based interventions to gold-standard interventions and elucidate the potential for mHealth/eHealth to increase scalability and reduce costs while maximizing impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A. Fowler
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Anne Claire Grammer
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Amanda E. Staiano
- grid.250514.70000 0001 2159 6024LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA USA
| | - Ellen E. Fitzsimmons-Craft
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Ling Chen
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Division of Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Lauren H. Yaeger
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Denise E. Wilfley
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
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Liu W, Zeng N, McDonough DJ, Gao Z. Effect of Active Video Games on Healthy Children's Fundamental Motor Skills and Physical Fitness: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17218264. [PMID: 33182327 PMCID: PMC7664910 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The present study aimed to synthesize the most updated literature regarding the casual evidence of the effects of active video games (AVGs) on fundamental motor skills (FMS; locomotor skills and object control skills) and physical fitness among healthy children. Methods: Electronic databases were searched through October 2020. Peer-reviewed randomized control trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental designs examining the effectiveness of AVGs on FMS and physical fitness development among healthy children (3-12 years) were screened. Results: A total of nine RCTs and one quasi-experimental study were included. Of the five studies examining the effect of AVGs on FMS, two reported significant improvements, while three reported no significant improvements in motor skills development as compared to control. Of the five studies assessing the effects of AVGs on physical fitness, four reported significant improvements in physical fitness such as balance, agility, and speed, whereas one reported significant improvements in skill-related executive function, but not in physical competence. Conclusions: Overall, the current available evidence supports AVGs as an effective means to improve physical fitness, such as balance, postural stability, and agility, among healthy children. However, the findings of AVGs on healthy children's object control and locomotor skills remain inconclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxi Liu
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (W.L.); (D.J.M.)
| | - Nan Zeng
- Prevention Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
| | - Daniel J. McDonough
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (W.L.); (D.J.M.)
| | - Zan Gao
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; (W.L.); (D.J.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-612-626-4639
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20
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Incorrect design and analysis render conclusion unsubstantiated: comment on "A digital movement in the world of inactive children: favourable outcomes of playing active video games in a pilot randomized trial". Eur J Pediatr 2020; 179:1487-1488. [PMID: 32078037 PMCID: PMC7415517 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-020-03590-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Gao Z, Zeng N, McDonough DJ, Su X. A Systematic Review of Active Video Games on Youth's Body Composition and Physical Activity. Int J Sports Med 2020; 41:561-573. [PMID: 32375184 DOI: 10.1055/a-1152-4959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, active video games (AVGs) have started to find their way into communities, schools, and homes as a possible solution to promote physical activity (PA) and prevent childhood obesity. However, the evidence regarding its effectiveness on body composition and objectively measured PA in youth remains inconclusive. Thus, a systematic review on this topic is needed. This review synthesizes effects of AVGs on body composition and PA in youth. The initial search yielded 260 articles from 10 databases and 18 randomized-controlled trials were included after evaluating against eligibility and removing duplicates. Overall, AVGs showed positive effects in improving body composition and PA in overweight/obese youth as compared to the control conditions with only 2 studies displaying neutral effects on these outcomes as compared to traditional PA or comparison programs. For healthy youth, more than half of the studies (n = 10) demonstrated neutral effects of AVGs on these outcomes whereas only 6 yielded positive effects compared to the control conditions. Further, one study indicated that the control condition observed greater improvement in body composition compared with an AVG intervention in healthy youth. In summary, AVGs are deemed a promising addition to promote PA and health among overweight/obese youth with the goal of fighting childhood obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zan Gao
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, United States
| | - Nan Zeng
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, United States
| | - Daniel J McDonough
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, United States
| | - Xiwen Su
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, United States
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