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BackgroundThe study aimed to evaluate self-perceived changes in lifestyle factors, particularly physical activity (PA), following the transition from secondary school to university. A secondary objective was to examine the relationship between lifestyle variables and weekly PA frequency. Key factors assessed included sleep quality, dietary habits, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and PA frequency.MethodsThe study surveyed 1,665 first-year undergraduate students at Slovak public universities (mean age: 20.73 years, SD ±1.39) using adapted versions of Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (CEVS-II) and the Brief Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (B-PSQI). Data collection took place between December 2022 and February 2023.ResultsSignificant declines were observed in most lifestyle variables after students transitioned to university. The proportion of students engaging in irregular, or no PA increased from 37% before university to 46% during their studies (p

Background: Evidence revealed that, 60% of deaths in the underdeveloped nations are linked to adoption of unhealthy lifestyles. The Trans-theoretical Model (TTM) has been considered a useful interventional approach in smoking cessation, drug addiction and weight control. However, its effectiveness in improving changes in dietary pattern, physical activity and alcohol consumption has not been reported. Purpose: The study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the TTM-based health education intervention in the promotion of lifestyle changes among adults with metabolic syndrome. Methods: This was an experimental design where 352 participants with metabolic syndrome were allocated to intervention and control groups. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either standard CVD care or a TTM stage-based lifestyle modification intervention for 12-months. Lifestyle patterns were assessed at baseline and endpoint. The mean difference of the subtotal TTM concept scores between pre and post intervention was evaluated using paired t -test. The chi-square test of independence was used to detect between group differences in the categorical data. Results: Most of the participants were in the pre-action stage of change for their dietary intake patterns and physical activity habits at the baseline assessment with no difference between the groups. The intervention group's total level of change toward adopting a healthy lifestyle was markedly (p < 0.001) improved than the control group at the endpoint. The mean scores for the intervention group's stage of change, self-efficacy, and pros and cons of decisional balance all improved significantly (p < 0.001) from the baseline. The mean scores for the control group's pros and cons of decisional balance and stage of change also considerably (p < 0.05) improved from baseline to the endpoint. Conclusion: The TTM- based health education intervention was effective in improving the participants' lifestyles that includes diet and physical activity. Health care providers, particularly nurses should implement TTM staged-matched educational intervention for individuals who are at risk for cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there is scientific evidence for an increased prevalence of sleep disorders during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there is still limited information on how lifestyle factors might have affected sleep patterns. Therefore, we followed a large cohort of participants in the Netherlands (n  = 5,420) for up to 1 year (September 2020–2021) via monthly Web-based questionnaires to identify lifestyle changes (physical activity, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, electronic device use, and social media use) driven by anti–COVID-19 measures and their potential associations with self-reported sleep (latency, duration, and quality). We used the Containment and Health Index (CHI) to assess the stringency of anti–COVID-19 measures and analyzed associations through multilevel ordinal response models. We found that more stringent anti–COVID-19 measures were associated with higher use of electronic devices (per interquartile-range increase in CHI, odds ratio (OR) = 1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40, 1.53), less physical activity (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.98), lower frequency of alcohol consumption (OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.60, 0.66), and longer sleep duration (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.16). Lower alcohol consumption frequency and higher use of electronic devices and social media were associated with longer sleep latency. Lower physical activity levels and higher social media and electronic device use were related to poorer sleep quality and shorter sleep duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures implemented to control it have led to widespread lifestyle changes globally. While previous studies have explored these effects across different age groups, this research focuses uniquely on college students in Kuwait. A cross-sectional study (N = 1259) was conducted among college students using a validated online questionnaire covering various aspects, including demographics, academic performance, self-reported body weight and height, sleep duration, dietary habits, and physical activity. There were equal proportions of individuals reporting decreased, increased, or no change in body weight, BMI, and dietary habits due to COVID-19, with no significant gender differences observed. A higher decrease (44.3%) than increase (29.2%) occurred due to COVID-19 in the proportion of college students engaging in physical activity. Significant differences were found in the students' responses to most of the eating behavior questions, concerning the changes attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Multivariable analysis showed significant interaction effects for gender by losing above 9 kg during the last 6 months in age (p = 0.037), total physical activity in METs-min/week (p = 0.048), and cake/donuts intake (p = 0.006). Logistic regression analysis, adjusted for age, revealed that a decrease in BMI was associated with an increase in daily vegetable intake (aOR = 1.531, p = 0.031), whereas increases in BMI were associated with an increased intake of sugar-sweetened drinks equal to or above 4 days/week (aOR = 1.551, p = 0.032) and increased chocolates/candy intake equal to or above 4 days/week (aOR = 1.792, p = 0.037). It was concluded that, in response to a major epidemic, such as COVID-19, college students, as a population, are susceptible to significant changes in lifestyle and eating behaviors that can impact their health and well-being. Future risks for college students' health can be reduced through appropriate lifestyle interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity has been shown to improve the health and well-being of students, athletes and the general population, especially when it is properly monitored and responses are evaluated. However, data are mostly gathered without considering a valuable element, participants' perceptions. Therefore, the objective was to know the perception of volleyball student-athletes when using different monitoring and response tools that assess well-being, workloads, responses to workloads, and academic demands. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with female volleyball student-athletes (n = 22) was used to know players' perceptions when using a wellness/well-being questionnaire, session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE), and countermovement jumps (CMJ), and consider academic demands. Results show that the wellness questionnaire and sRPE increased student-athletes' awareness of well-being and readiness to perform, improved self-evaluation, self-regulation, and self-demand. However, motivation and overcoming challenges were based on the CMJ. Academic demands affected 82% of student-athletes, altering stress, fatigue, and sleep quality. Nonetheless, sport was seen as an activity that helped with academic commitments. Therefore, the wellness questionnaires and the sRPE facilitated self-awareness and positive dispositions toward self-regulation. Simultaneous intensive academic demands and training can produce mutual positive effects if the variables of physical and mental loads are harmonized in the critical academic and sports periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures implemented to control it have led to widespread lifestyle changes globally. While previous studies have explored these effects across different age groups, this research focuses uniquely on college students in Kuwait. A cross-sectional study (N = 1259) was conducted among college students using a validated online questionnaire covering various aspects, including demographics, academic performance, self-reported body weight and height, sleep duration, dietary habits, and physical activity. There were equal proportions of individuals reporting decreased, increased, or no change in body weight, BMI, and dietary habits due to COVID-19, with no significant gender differences observed. A higher decrease (44.3%) than increase (29.2%) occurred due to COVID-19 in the proportion of college students engaging in physical activity. Significant differences were found in the students’ responses to most of the eating behavior questions, concerning the changes attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Multivariable analysis showed significant interaction effects for gender by losing above 9 kg during the last 6 months in age (p = 0.037), total physical activity in METs-min/week (p = 0.048), and cake/donuts intake (p = 0.006). Logistic regression analysis, adjusted for age, revealed that a decrease in BMI was associated with an increase in daily vegetable intake (aOR = 1.531, p = 0.031), whereas increases in BMI were associated with an increased intake of sugar-sweetened drinks equal to or above 4 days/week (aOR = 1.551, p = 0.032) and increased chocolates/candy intake equal to or above 4 days/week (aOR = 1.792, p = 0.037). It was concluded that, in response to a major epidemic, such as COVID-19, college students, as a population, are susceptible to significant changes in lifestyle and eating behaviors that can impact their health and well-being. Future risks for college students’ health can be reduced through appropriate lifestyle interventions.

Physical activity has been shown to improve the health and well-being of students, athletes and the general population, especially when it is properly monitored and responses are evaluated. However, data are mostly gathered without considering a valuable element, participants’ perceptions. Therefore, the objective was to know the perception of volleyball student-athletes when using different monitoring and response tools that assess well-being, workloads, responses to workloads, and academic demands. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with female volleyball student-athletes (n = 22) was used to know players’ perceptions when using a wellness/well-being questionnaire, session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE), and countermovement jumps (CMJ), and consider academic demands. Results show that the wellness questionnaire and sRPE increased student-athletes’ awareness of well-being and readiness to perform, improved self-evaluation, self-regulation, and self-demand. However, motivation and overcoming challenges were based on the CMJ. Academic demands affected 82% of student-athletes, altering stress, fatigue, and sleep quality. Nonetheless, sport was seen as an activity that helped with academic commitments. Therefore, the wellness questionnaires and the sRPE facilitated self-awareness and positive dispositions toward self-regulation. Simultaneous intensive academic demands and training can produce mutual positive effects if the variables of physical and mental loads are harmonized in the critical academic and sports periods.

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing worldwide, and physical activity (PA) is a suitable way of preventing and managing the disease. However, improving long‐term levels of PA in people with T2DM is a challenge and the best approach to rehabilitation in this regard is unknown. With the aim of outlining the existing knowledge regarding the maintenance of active lifestyles among people with T2DM after rehabilitation programs and gaining knowledge about options and challenges for their long‐term engagement in PA, a systematic review of original research articles assessing PA after rehabilitation programs was conducted. Two thousand two hundred and forty‐one articles were identified through PubMed or secondary sources and subjected to various inclusion criteria. Only articles published between the 1st of January 2000 and the 30th of June 2020 were considered. Additionally, the minimum time frame from intervention start to last PA assessment was 6 months and only articles based on interventions performed in Europe were included. The review was based on eighteen randomized controlled trials, four randomized trials without control, and four case studies. The 26 articles described 30 interventions that were categorized as personalized counseling, generalized teaching, supervised exercise, or a combination of personalized and generalized interventions. Statistical and narrative syntheses revealed no clear pattern regarding the effectiveness in eliciting maintained changes in PA. However, across categories, individual involvement, goal setting, social support, and the formation of habits are argued to be important components in sustaining PA and relieving challenges associated with the transition out of rehabilitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of lifestyle changes on cancer risk is yet to be elucidated. We investigated this issue in the Swedish Women's Lifestyle and Health Cohort Study. We measured changes by comparing two questionnaires, filled in 1991/92 and 2003. We followed women for cancer from 2003 until 2012. We used Cox regression models to assess the effect of changes in smoking, alcohol consumption, body mass index (BMI), physical activity and a lifestyle score on the risk of lifestyle-related cancer. One point was added to the lifestyle score for each of these: non-smoking, alcohol consumption ≤12 grams/day, BMI <25 kg/m2 and high level of physical activity. We included 29,930 women. From 1991/92 to 2003, median age changed from 40.0 to 51.7 years, alcohol consumption from 2.5 to 4.7 grams/day, BMI from 22.7 to 24.5 kg/m2, proportion of current smokers from 31.0 to 20.6% and women reporting high physical activity from 27.2 to 37.0%. Women who quit smoking had lower risk of smoking-related cancers compared to women who continued (hazard ratio (HR) 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55–1.00). Women who reduced their weight by more than 5%, compared to women with stable weight, had lower risk of breast cancer (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.31–0.78). Among women with score of 0–2 in 1992/93, those who improved to 3-4 had lower risk of lifestyle-related cancers compared to women who did not (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.66–0.99). Healthy lifestyle changes, particularly smoking cessation and weight reduction, were associated with a decreased risk of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Health risk assessment (HRAs) are commonly used by occupational health services (OHS) to aid workplaces in keeping their employees healthy, but for unknown reasons, many employees choose not to participate in the HRAs. The aim of the study was to explore whether demographic, lifestyle and health-related factors in employees are associated with non-participation in initial and repeated HRAs. Methods In an OHS-based health project, 2022 municipal employees were asked to participate in three repeated HRAs. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used so as to determine associations between non-participating and demographic, lifestyle and health-related factors (e.g. biomarkers). Results Among the employees who were asked to participate in the health project, more than half did not participate in any HRA and among those who did, more than one third did not participate in repeated HRAs. Young age, male sex and being employed in the Technical department or Health and Social Care department in comparison with being employed in the department for Childcare and Education were factors significantly associated with non-participation in the initial HRA. These factors, together with being on sick leave and having unhealthy dietary habits, were factors associated with non-participation in repeated HRAs. Conclusions Among the non-participators in initial HRAs and in repeated HRAs younger men and those already related to ill-health were overrepresented. This implicates that health care providers to a higher extent should focus on “those most needed” and that employers should be more engaged in results of repeated HRA’s. Future studies should focus on modifiable variables that could make the HRAs more attractive and inclusive.

Summary: Background: Home confinement during the COVID‐19 pandemic could have affected lifestyle behaviours of children, however evidence about it is emerging and yet scarce. Objectives: To examine the effects of the COVID‐19 confinement on lifestyle behaviours in Spanish children, and to assess the influence of social vulnerabilities on changes in lifestyle behaviours. Methods: Physical activity (PA), screen time, sleep time, adherence to the Mediterranean diet (KIDMED) and sociodemographic information were longitudinally assessed before (N = 291, 12.1 ± 2.4 years, 47.8% girls) and during the COVID‐19 confinement (N = 113, 12.0 ± 2.6 years, 48.7% girls) by online questionnaires. Results: During the COVID‐19 confinement, PA (−91 ± 55 min/d, P <.001) and screen time (±2.6 h/d, P <.001) worsened, whereas the KIDMED score improved (0.5 ± 2.2 points, P <.02). The decrease of PA was higher in children with mother of non‐Spanish origin (−1.8 ± 0.2 vs −1.5 ± 0.1 h/d, P <.04) or with non‐university studies (−1.7 ± 0.1 vs −1.3 ± 0.1 h/d, P <.005) in comparison to their counterparts. Conclusion: This study evidence the negative impact of the COVID‐19 confinement on PA levels and sedentary behaviours of Spanish children. These findings should be taken into account to design and implement public health strategies for preserving children´s health during and after the pandemic, particularly, in children with social vulnerabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmacological lowering of inflammation has proven effective in reducing recurrent cardiovascular event rates. Aim of the current study is to evaluate lifestyle changes (smoking cessation, weight loss, physical activity level increase, alcohol moderation, and a summary lifestyle improvement score) in relation to change in plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration in patients with established cardiovascular disease. In total, 1794 patients from the UCC-SMART cohort with stable cardiovascular disease and CRP levels ≤10 mg/L, who returned for a follow-up study visit after median 9.9 years (IQR 5.4–10.8), were included. The relation between changes in smoking status, weight, physical activity, alcohol consumption, a summary lifestyle improvement score and change in plasma CRP concentration was evaluated with linear regression analyses. Smoking cessation was related to a 0.40 mg/L decline in CRP concentration (β-coefficient −0.40; 95%CI -0.73,-0.07). Weight loss (per 1SD = 6.4 kg) and increase in physical activity (per 1 SD = 48 MET hours per week) were related to a decrease in CRP concentration (β-coefficients −0.25; 95%CI -0.33,-0.16 and −0.09; 95%CI -0.17,-0.01 per SD). Change in alcohol consumption was not related to CRP difference. Every point higher in the summary lifestyle improvement score was related to a decrease in CRP concentration of 0.17 mg/L (β-coefficient −0.17; 95%CI -0.26,-0.07). Smoking cessation, increase in physical activity, and weight loss are related to a decrease in CRP concentration in patients with stable cardiovascular disease. Patients with the highest summary lifestyle improvement score have the most decrease in CRP concentration. These results may indicate that healthy lifestyle changes contribute to lowering systemic inflammation, potentially leading to a lower cardiovascular risk in patients with established cardiovascular disease. Image 1 • In patients with established cardiovascular disease (CVD), lifestyle improvements are related to a decrease in C-reactive protein (CRP). • These lifestyle improvements are smoking cessation, physical activity increase, and weight loss. • Multiple lifestyle changes are related to the most decrease in CRP concentration. • Lifestyle changes might reduce CVD risk partly through lowering systemic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Middle-Eastern immigrants in Sweden are at increased risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and poor mental health. Physical activity not only prevents/delays onset of T2D but also shows favorable effects on mental health. However, the effects of a culturally adapted lifestyle intervention on mental health among Middle-Eastern immigrants have not been explored before. We aimed to study the effects of a randomized controlled, culturally adapted lifestyle intervention on anxiety and depression levels in diabetes-prone Iraqi immigrants. Methods Participants (n = 96) were randomized to intervention group, IG (n = 50) or control group, CG (n = 46). The IG received seven group sessions addressing lifestyle change and the CG received treatment as usual. Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS-S) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) assessed mental health at start, mid (2 months) and end of the study (4 months). Proportional odds ratio (OR) model was used to study the effect of the intervention. Results The odds of scoring lower on MADRS-S and HADS depression scale at visit 3 vs. baseline were higher in the IG compared to the CG (MADRS-S OR 5.9, 95% CI: 1.6–22.5; HADS OR 4.4, 95% CI: 0.9–20.3). The findings persisted after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, time since migration, sedentary lifestyle and language spoken at home. Group differences were non-significant at visit 2 vs. baseline. Conclusion A culturally adapted lifestyle intervention addressing T2D prevention in Middle-Eastern immigrants has favorable effects on mental health. The effect was more pronounced at the 4 months than at 2 months follow-up, indicating beneficial effect of longer study duration. Trial registration www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT01420198. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes has emerged as a concern in China. The Pathway to Health Program was designed to prevent type 2 diabetes onset in prediabetic women in a north China urban community. This process evaluation of a randomized controlled trial analysed participant surveys at the 6- and 12-month assessment times, participant weekly logs, class attendance records and post-study participant focus group results. The reported levels of participant engagement in physical activity (PA)-related behaviors were higher than diet-related behaviors at the 6-month assessment. The engagement in both PA- and diet-related behaviors declined during the 6-month follow-up period. Step counts from the participants' pedometers indicated an increase in PA in the first 6 months of the intervention. Study participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with the intervention and increased their scores on diabetes-related knowledge. Conflicts with work and family responsibilities were the main barriers for missing health lessons, likely contributing to minimal weight loss. There was good fidelity in program implementation. Intensive lifestyle modification programs are difficult to sustain once the program is complete. A more structured 6-month follow-up phase may have provided needed support to enable participants to maintain their lifestyle changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common medical disorder whose prevalence is increasing worldwide. Modifiable risk factors for ED include smoking, lack of physical activity, wrong diets, overweight or obesity, metabolic syndrome, and excessive alcohol consumption. Quite interestingly, all these metabolic conditions are strongly associated with a pro-inflammatory state that results in endothelial dysfunction by decreasing the availability of nitric oxide (NO), which is the driving force of the blood genital flow. Lifestyle and nutrition have been recognized as central factors influencing both vascular NO production, testosterone levels, and erectile function. Moreover, it has also been suggested that lifestyle habits that decrease low-grade clinical inflammation may have a role in the improvement of erectile function. In clinical trials, lifestyle modifications were effective in ameliorating ED or restoring absent ED in people with obesity or metabolic syndrome. Therefore, promotion of healthful lifestyles would yield great benefits in reducing the burden of sexual dysfunction. Efforts, in order to implement educative strategies for healthy lifestyle, should be addressed.

Background: Due to a worldwide increase in overweight and obesity, weight-management through lifestyle changes has become an important public health issue. Adolescents and young adults comprise a vulnerable group. The transition into adulthood represents a stage in life when establishing good lifestyle habits for the future is important. The aim of this study was to explore motivation and obstacles for weight reduction, weight maintenance and healthy lifestyle choices in young women.Methods: We conducted semi-structured in depth interviews with 12 young women, both overweight and normal weight, recruited from a school-based population survey. By the use of thematic analysis we searched the interview text for relevant meaning units that emerged as topics that illuminated our research questions.Results: A strong motivation for obtaining or keeping normal weight was clearly present among the participants. Independent of weight-group, the participants described increased levels of physical activity, better eating habits and regularity in daily life as desirable changes. Parents were described as important influencers regarding lifestyle habits. Several participants expressed a need for more information about healthy nutrition and eating. Their motivation for physical activity depended on a positive social setting and elements of joy. The participants described the transition into adulthood including moving out of their parents' home and other structural changes in everyday life, as challenging. It affected their food choices and eating habits and other lifestyle issues. High costs of healthy food and sports activities were frequently mentioned among the obstacles they encountered.Conclusion: The results revealed an obvious motivation for lifestyle changes in individuals and environmental challenges for young women in the relevant stage of their life-course. There seems to be a need for health strategies that strengthens individuals' capacity to overcome the environmental challenges in the transition to adulthood. This should include reliable and accessible health education/information regarding healthy nutrition, eating habits, food choices and preparation of meals. Structural initiatives such as easier access to affordable healthy food and less expensive opportunities for physical activity and sports should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Obesity has become a pandemic, with more than a billion people affected worldwide. During the past two decades, the prevalence of obesity in children has risen greatly throughout the entire world. This is especially alarming in youth where the new prevalence is above predicted trends. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed at providing an intervention program for adolescents in the category of overweight/obese in accordance with physical activity (PA) guidelines. The total duration of the project was 8 weeks. The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of the intervention and promote lifelong participation in physical activities. METHODS: The research sample was made up of high school students chosen in accordance with selected criteria of BMI between 25 ≥ 35.5 (n = 27). Data was collected from the participants through the use of questionnaires, internet, and pedometers, as well as objective measurements of height, fat and BMI using the Tanita Body Composition Analyzer. RESULTS: Results showed that there was no reduction in BMI. There was also an increase in the amount of vigorous activity and number of steps throughout the intervention. The logical significance of 240 METminutes per week was seen in their study, whereas in our study we noticed a four times greater increase with 957 METminutes per week, and logical significance in all areas. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion it was noted that increased activity reduces a sedentary lifestyle, while it improved social, mental and health status. In addition, our data indicate that sedentary behaviors are strongly related to overweight/obesity in adolescents. It also demonstrates that the type of model implemented with the intervention must reflect a holistic role and activities must critically reflect the interest and preferences of the participants, so that motivation to proceed is strong and conditions for adherence could be set up.[VÝCHODISKA: Z obesity se stala pandemie, která celosvětově ovlivňuje přes miliardu lidí. Prevalence obezity za posledních dvacet let dramaticky stoupla, a to celosvětově. Tento fakt je obzvláště alarmující u mládeže, kde se statistiky prevalence dostávají nad predikované trendy. CÍLE: Tato studie byla zaměřena na sestavení základního intervenčního programu pohybové aktivity (PA) pro adolescenty, spadající do kategorie nadváha/obesity. Celková délka programu byla 8 týdnů. Tvorba programu proběhla v souladu s oficiálními doporučeními pro pohybovou aktivitu. Účelem studie bylo ohodnocení efektivity intervence a podpora celoživotní účasti participant na pohybové aktivitě. METODIKA: Výzkumný soubor byl tvořen středoškolskými studenty. Kritériem pro výběr participantů byla BMI kategorizace 25 ≥ 35.5. Velikost výzkumného souboru byla 27 jedinců. Pro posouzení efektivity intervence bylo použito pre-test a post-test měření. Hlavními intervenčními nástroji byly dotazníky, internet (facebook), pedometry a přístroj Tanita, využívaný k měření tělesného složení. VÝSLEDKY: Výsledky nepotvrdily snížení hodnot BMI. Dále jsme zaznamenali zvýšené množství intenzivní PA a počtu kroků v průběhu celého projektu. Věcná významnost rozdílu v úrovni PA byla stanovena na úrovni 240 MET-minut/týden. V naší studii jsme zaznamenali nejnižší nárůst PA o > 957 MET-minut/týden u všech druhé PA. ZÁVĚRY: Zvýšená pohybová aktivita redukuje sedavý životní styl, zlepšuje společenský, psychický a zdravotní status. Sedavý způsob života významně souvisí s nadváhou a obezitou u populace adolescent. Způsob prezentace a zvolený intervenční model by měl splňovat prvky komplexnosti a kriticky reflektovat zájmy a preference participantů, a to především z důvodu zvýšené motivace a následně adherence.]

Prevalence of pediatric obesity continues to rise worldwide. Increasing the number of health care practitioners as well as pediatricians with expertise in obesity treatment is necessary. Because many obese patients suffer obesity-associated cardiovascular, metabolic and other health complications that could increase the severity of obesity, it is fundamental not only to identify the child prone to obesity as early as possible, but to recognize, treat and monitor obesity-related diseases during adolescence. This short review outlines the treatment of pediatric obesity that may have applications in the primary care setting. It examines current information on eating behavior, sedentary behavior, and details studies of multidisciplinary, behavior-based, obesity treatment programs. We also report the less common and more aggressive forms of treatment, such as medication and bariatric surgery. We emphasize that health care providers have the potential to improve outcomes by performing early identification, helping families create the best possible home environment, and by providing structured guidance to obese children and their families.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common medical disorder whose prevalence is increasing worldwide. Modifiable risk factors for ED include smoking, lack of physical activity, wrong diets, overweight or obesity, metabolic syndrome, and excessive alcohol consumption. Quite interestingly, all these metabolic conditions are strongly associated with a pro‑inflammatory state that results in endothelial dysfunction by decreasing the availability of nitric oxide (NO), which is the driving force of the blood genital flow. Lifestyle and nutrition have been recognized as central factors influencing both vascular NO production, testosterone levels, and erectile function. Moreover, it has also been suggested that lifestyle habits that decrease low‑grade clinical inflammation may have a role in the improvement of erectile function. In clinical trials, lifestyle modifications were effective in ameliorating ED or restoring absent ED in people with obesity or metabolic syndrome. Therefore, promotion of healthful lifestyles would yield great benefits in reducing the burden of sexual dysfunction. Efforts, in order to implement educative strategies for healthy lifestyle, should be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to describe the health-promoting lifestyle behaviours of pregnant women. The study was carried out with pregnant women who applied to the polyclinics in different maternity and children hospitals located in Adana, Turkey, between 1 March and 30 May 2009. The data collection tools used in the study were (i) a questionnaire that was used to collect sociodemographic data from the participants and (ii) the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II ( HPLP II). The results obtained from the study showed that total HPLP II scores were moderate; the highest scores were obtained on the spiritual growth dimension and the lowest scores on the physical activity dimension. Pregnant women with older age, those with a higher educational level, those with a better socioeconomic status and those living in a nuclear family were found to be more likely to have health-promoting lifestyles. Health promotion and healthy lifestyle need to be an integral part of health services provided for pregnant women. Midwives and nurses have prominent roles in encouraging pregnant women to engage in health-promoting behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on how modifications in health behaviors and lifestyles can lessen the impact of hypertension, including the role of obesity, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and high cholesterol in hypertension, and mentions different forms of physical activity can reduce hypertension.

Providing developmental programs to inner-city youth is a key component to promoting healthy lifestyles in urban communities. In this study, 46 adolescents, predominately African American youth (age 11-14), participated in the 'High Five for Healthy Living' hygiene intervention program hosted at the NFL Youth Education Town of the Boys and Girls Club of Atlanta. Windshield surveys, key informant interviews and focus groups were conducted in order to identify the needs of the surrounding community and subsequently plan and implement a 5 week developmental module to meet these needs. Weekly modules were conducted focusing on oral hygiene, hand washing, physical activity, male/female personal hygiene, and nutrition/food safety. Surveys administered showed that a large percentage of students exhibited behavioral change following the completion of each module: 42% for oral hygiene, 88% for hand washing, 75% for physical activity, 88% for personal hygiene and 50% for nutrition/food safety. From these findings, it is evident that that African American adolescents can benefit from developmental programs targeted to address their specific community needs, and as a result implement personal lifestyle changes. Such interventions could potentially decrease in the prevalence of certain preventable diseases endemic to many low socioeconomic inner city communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular physical activity during leisure time has been shown to be associated with better health outcomes. The American Heart Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Sports Medicine all recommend regular physical activity of moderate intensity for the prevention and complementary treatment of several diseases. The therapeutic role of exercise in maintaining good health and treating diseases is not new. The benefits of physical activity date back to Susruta, a 600 BC physician in India, who prescribed exercise to patients. Hippocrates (460-377 BC) wrote "in order to remain healthy, the entire day should be devoted exclusively to ways and means of increasing one's strength and staying healthy, and the best way to do so is through physical exercise." Plato (427-347 BC) referred to medicine as a sister art to physical exercise while the noted ancient Greek physician Galen (129-217 AD) penned several essays on aerobic fitness and strengthening muscles. This article briefly reviews the beneficial effects of physical activity on cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pedometer-based physical activity programs have been typically delivered in a group format by a behavioral expert. An alternative strategy that builds on existing interactions is delivery through individual consultation by a general practitioner (GP). These two delivery strategies have not been directly compared. Purpose: To compare effectiveness of a 12-week physical activity (PA) intervention for type 2 diabetes patients delivered by a trained GP via an individual consultation or as group delivery by a behavioral expert. Method: Sixty-seven primary care participants (mean age = 67.4 years, 70% male) from three Belgian general practices were randomized into three different treatment arms: (1) individual consultation ( n = 22) with three PA contacts with the patient's GP; (2) group counseling ( n = 21) with three PA group sessions delivered by a behavioral expert; and (3) a control arm ( n = 24) receiving no intervention. Participant inclusion criteria were ≤80 years; 25-35 kg/m²; ≤12% HbA1c and reporting no PA limitations. Outcome measures were pedometer-determined steps/day, self-reported PA, and health parameters (weight, body mass index, waist circumference, total cholesterol, fasting glucose, and HbA1c). Results: Group counseling participants increased 1,706 steps/day over baseline significantly ( p ≤ 0.05) more than other treatment arms. Moreover, they increased their self-reported PA (+82 min/day), while control arm participants showed a decrease in PA ( p ≤ 0.05). Participants of the individual consultation had a decrease in waist circumference (−1.4 cm) and HbA1c (−0.32%) and a lower increase in total cholesterol (+7.2 mg/dl) compared to the other treatment arms (all p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Group counseling in type 2 diabetes patients improved PA, whereas individual consultations had an impact on some health outcomes on the short-term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Universitatis Palackianae Olomucensis. Gymnica is the property of Palacky University in Olomouc and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Der Diabetologe is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Prevalence of pediatric obesity continues to rise worldwide. Increasing the number of health care practitioners as well as pediatricians with expertise in obesity treatment is necessary. Because many obese patients suffer obesity-associated cardiovascular, metabolic and other health complications that could increase the severity of obesity, it is fundamental not only to identify the child prone to obesity as early as possible, but to recognize, treat and monitor obesity-related diseases during adolescence. This short review outlines the treatment of pediatric obesity that may have applications in the primary care setting. It examines current information on eating behavior, sedentary behavior, and details studies of multidisciplinary, behavior-based, obesity treatment programs. We also report the less common and more aggressive forms of treatment, such as medication and bariatric surgery. We emphasize that health care providers have the potential to improve outcomes by performing early identification, helping families create the best possible home environment, and by providing structured guidance to obese children and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To evaluate the effects of a lifestyle intervention programme in primary healthcare, targeted to patients with moderate to high risk of cardiovascular disease in terms of cardiovascular risk factors, physical activity, and quality of life. Method: Randomized controlled trial with one‐year follow‐up, carried out in a primary healthcare centre in Northern Sweden. A total of 151 middle‐aged men and women, with hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, or obesity were enrolled. The subjects were randomized to either the intervention (n = 75) or the control group (n = 76). A total of 123 subjects completed the one‐year follow‐up. Interventions: Exercise: supervised endurance and circuit training in groups three times a week for three months. Diet: five group sessions of diet counselling with a dietitian. Follow‐ up meetings with a physiotherapist were conducted monthly thereafter. Primary outcomes were changes in anthropometry, maximal oxygen uptake, health‐related quality of life, and self‐reported physical activity. The secondary outcomes were changes in blood pressure and metabolic variables. Results: After one year the intervention group significantly increased maximal oxygen uptake, physical activity, and quality of life and significantly decreased body weight, waist and hip circumference, body mass index, waist–hip ratio, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and glycosylated haemoglobin. There were significant differences between groups, mean changes (and their 95% confidence intervals, CI) in waist circumference -1.9 cm (-2.80 to -0.90; p<0.001), in waist–hip ratio -0.01 (-.02 to -0.004; p<0.01) and in diastolic blood pressure -2.3 mmHg (-4.04 to -0.51; p<0.05). Conclusion: A prevention programme in primary healthcare with a focus on physical activity and diet counselling followed by structured follow‐up meetings can favourably influence several risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and quality of life in high‐risk subjects for at least one year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the early-phase translation research which tests the Ways to Enhance Children's Acitivity and Nutrition (We Can!) programme in a diverse group of low-income parents from south-eastern state of the U.S. The study used descriptive pretest or post-test design to evaluate the changes in parental attitudes, behaviours, and knowledge. Results showed that the attitudes, knowledge, and behaviours of parents are positively changed after the implementation of the programme.