Prevalence of unhealthy lifestyle among children and adolescents of Han nationality in China

Abstract

Objective: To explore the epidemiological characteristics and geographical distribution of unhealthy lifestyle among children and adolescents of Han nationality in China and obtain evidence for proposing the related strategies to improve the well-being of this population. Methods: Students aged 6-22 years old were selected from the Chinese National Survey on Students Constitution and Health in 2019. The prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles (physical inactivity, lack of outdoor activity, sedentary behavior, excessive screen time, sleep insufficiency, unhealthy eating behavior) between sex, residence, and age groups was calculated and compared. Multilevel logistic regression was used to explore the influencing factors of unhealthy lifestyle. Results: The prevalence of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity less than 1 h/d or 30 min/d were 82.06% and 54.69%, respectively. The prevalence of less than 2 h/d or 3 h/d of outdoor activities were 95.20% and 83.26%, respectively. The prevalence of more than 2 h/d or 3 h/d of sitting time were 50.64% and 31.92%, respectively. The prevalence of more than 2 h/d or 3 h/d of screen time were 42.02% and 27.79%, respectively. The prevalence of sleep insufficiency, excessive sugary beverages consumption (≥ 1 time/d), and insufficient consumption of eggs, milk, and breakfast (<7 d/week) were 66.49%, 20.97%, 83.36%, 70.71%, and 34.34%, respectively. The prevalence of severe sleep insufficiency, excessive sugary beverages consumption (≥ 3 times/d), and insufficient consumption of eggs, milk, and breakfast (≤2 d/week) were 27.77%, 8.21%, 47.21%, 32.36% and 9.73%, respectively. Conclusion: In 2019, unhealthy lifestyle is common among Han students aged 6-22 years in China. It is of importance to propose policies to strengthen the health education and initiatives to support healthy behaviors in Han children and adolescents. Jointly promotion on the creation of a healthy environment for Han children and adolescents, and formulation of targeted improvement measures in accordance with the epidemic characteristics in various regions are essential to improve the healthy lifestyle of this population.