The Association of Lifestyle Factors and Attention Problems in Adolescents

Abstract

OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the associations between lifestyle factors such as physical activity, sleep patterns, media usage, and diet, and attention problems in adolescents. METHODS This cross-sectional study involved 4,370 adolescents aged 13-18 years in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Lifestyle factors were assessed using the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System questionnaire, while attention problems were evaluated with the Youth Self-Report (YSR) Attention Problems subscale. Associations were analyzed using univariable and multivariable regression analysis. RESULTS Media use exceeding two hours per day was significantly asso-ciated with clinical attention problems (aOR = 3.21, 95% CI: 1.81-5.71). Additionally, increased media use (b = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.19-0.28, p < 0.01), and high soft drinks consumption (b = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.12-0.26, p < 0.01) were positively associated with higher attention problem scores. Conversely, active physical activity (b = -0.09, 95% CI: -0.13 to -0.05, p < 0.01), adequate sleep (b = -0.26, 95% CI: -0.33 to -0.19, p < 0.01), regular breakfast intake (b = -0.09, 95% CI: -0.12 to -0.05, p < 0.01), vegetable consumption (b = -0.07, 95% CI: -0.13 to -0.02, p = 0.01), and milk consumption (b = -0.06, 95% CI: -0.11 to -0.01, p = 0.03) were negatively associated with attention problems scores. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the significant impact of lifestyle factors on attention problems among adolescents. These findings support the integration of lifestyle modifications into the assessment and manage-ment of attention issues in this age group, particularly emphasizing the need to reduce excessive media use. KEYWORDS lifestyle factors, dietary patterns, attention problems, ADHD, adolescence