Prevalence and Correlates of Low Sedentary Time among Canadian Adult Populations

Sedentary behaviour is associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, depression, and all-cause mortality. In Canada, little is known regarding the prevalence and correlates of sedentary time during leisure. The purpose of this study was to identify sociodemographic, behavioural, community, and health-related factors associated with low sedentary time. Using epidemiological data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, prevalence and correlates of sedentary time were identified among adults in the general population, First Nations adults, and Métis adults living outside Aboriginal communities. Findings indicate a strong association between sense of belonging to community and low sedentary time, and that low income is an important determinant of sedentary behaviour regardless of ethnic group. Use of intersectionality theory highlighted the complexity of this association, particularly among First Nations and Métis adults, and the need to consider the role of social inequities in health behaviour and intervention ideas.