Abstract
The aim of this study was to verify the relation between body mass index (BMI) and sitting time in a sample of 4,091 Azorean men. BMI was calculated from self-reported weight and height. Total physical activity (PA) time and total sitting time were assessed with the IPAQ (short version). Linear Regression analysis showed that total sitting time (hours/day) was positively associated with BMI (B = 0.078; p < 0.001) after adjustments for age, meal frequency, alcohol and tobacco consumptions, island of residence, education level and total PA time. Although the cross sectional design precludes us from establishing causality, our findings emphasize the importance of reducing sedentary behavior to decrease the risk of obesity.
Highlights
Obesity has become a significant epidemic in both developed and developing countries due to its association with increased morbidity and mortality [1]
Linear regression analysis showed that after adjustments for potential confounders total sitting time was positively associated with body mass index (BMI) (B = 0.078; p < 0.001—model 2)
Linear regression analysis showed that after adjustments for potential confounders, total sitting time was positively associated with BMI
Summary
Obesity has become a significant epidemic in both developed and developing countries due to its association with increased morbidity and mortality [1]. Physical activity (PA) levels, as well as sedentary behavior appear to play an important role in long-term weight regulation [8]. Current public health campaigns to reduce obesity and type 2 diabetes have largely focused on increasing PA and/or exercise, but have paid little attention to the reduction of sedentary behaviors [10]. Some studies have shown that non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) plays a key role in differences of energy expenditure in special populations such as the obese [11]. Altering one’s postural allocation from a seated to standing position or engaging in light ambulation has been shown to significantly increase energy expenditure [11]. Sitting is strongly and inversely associated with caloric expenditure that is likely an important cause of the obesity epidemic. In our daily contemporary life, sitting is a predominant behavior for many hours per day [13]
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