Decreasing sedentary behaviors in treating pediatric obesity.
BACKGROUND
Epidemiological studies have shown television watching to be a risk factor for the development of obesity in children. The effect of reducing television watching and other sedentary behaviors as a component of a comprehensive obesity treatment program has not been thoroughly tested.


OBJECTIVE
To compare the influence of targeting decreases in sedentary behavior vs. increases in physical activity in the comprehensive treatment of obesity in 8- to 12-year-old children.


METHODS
Randomized, controlled outcome study.


METHODS
Childhood obesity research clinic.


METHODS
Ninety families with obese 8- to 12-year-old children were randomly assigned to groups that were provided a comprehensive family-based behavioral weight control program that included dietary, and behavior change information but differed in whether sedentary or physically active behaviors were targeted and the degree of behavior change required.


RESULTS
Results during 2 years showed that targeting either decreased sedentary behaviors or increased physical activity was associated with significant decreases in percent overweight and body fat and improved aerobic fitness. Self-reported activity minutes increased and targeted sedentary time decreased during treatment. Children substituted nontargeted sedentary behaviors for some of their targeted sedentary behaviors.


CONCLUSIONS
These results support reducing sedentary behaviors as an adjunct in the treatment of pediatric obesity.
Epstein
L H
LH
Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York 14260, USA.
Paluch
R A
RA
Gordy
C C
CC
Dorn
J
J
D001521:Behavior Therapy; D002648:Child; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004038:Diet, Reducing / Q000523:psychology; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D013690:Television; D016896:Treatment Outcome