An objective method for measurement of sedentary behavior in 3-to 4-year olds

Burke, G., Coyle, J., Grant, S., Kelly, L., Paton, J.Y. and Reilly, J.J. (2003) An objective method for measurement of sedentary behavior in 3-to 4-year olds. Obesity Research, 11(10), pp. 1155-1158. (doi: 10.1038/oby.2003.158)

Abstract

<b>OBJECTIVE:</b> To test the ability of accelerometry to quantify sedentary behavior in 3- to 4-year-old children.<p></p> <b>RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES:</b> We developed a cut-off for accelerometry output (validation study) in 30 healthy 3 to 4 year olds, which provided highest sensitivity and specificity for the detection of sedentary behavior relative to a criterion method of measurement, direct observation using the children's physical activity form. We then cross-validated the cut-off in an independent sample of healthy 3 to 4 year olds (n = 52)<p></p> <b>RESULTS:</b> In the validation study, optimal sensitivity and specificity for the detection of sedentary behavior were obtained at an accelerometry output cut-off of <1100 counts/min. In the cross-validation, sensitivity was 83%: 438/528 inactive minutes were correctly classified. Specificity was 82%: 1251/1526 noninactive minutes were correctly classified using this cut-off.<p></p> <b>DISCUSSION:</b> Sedentary behavior can be quantified objectively in young children using accelerometry. This new technique could be considered for a wide variety of applications in the etiology, prevention, and treatment of childhood obesity.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Grant, Dr Stanley and Paton, Dr James and Reilly, Prof John
• Authors: Burke, G., Coyle, J., Grant, S., Kelly, L., Paton, J.Y., and Reilly, J.J.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Clinical Specialities
• Journal Name: Obesity Research
• ISSN: 1071-7323
• ISSN (Online): 1550-8528

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