Clustering of Physical Activity, Diet and Sedentary Behavior among Youth from Low-, Middle-, and High-Income Countries: A Scoping Review

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Oct 17;18(20):10924. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182010924.

Abstract

Background: The interaction between physical activity (PA), diet, and sedentary behavior (SB) plays an important role on health-related outcomes. This scoping review (Prospero CRD42018094826) aims to identify and appraise clusters of PA, diet, and SB among youth (0-19 years) according to country income.

Methods: Five databases were searched. Fifty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria.

Results: Fifty-five cluster types were identified, with greater variety in high-income than lower income countries. The most prevalent profiles were "High SB and consumption of sugar, salt, and beverages (SSB)" (n = 17) and "High PA" (n = 13-5), both of which presented in all income countries. The healthiest profile, "High PA and fruit and vegetables (F&V); Low SB and SSB" (n = 12), was present in upper-middle and high-income countries, while the unhealthiest "Low PA and F&V; High SB and SSB" (n = 6) was present only in high-income countries.

Conclusions: High SB and unhealthy diet (SSB) were more prevalent in clusters, mainly in high-income countries. The results support the need for multi-component actions targeting more than one behavior at the same time.

Keywords: cluster analysis; diet; exercise; sedentary behavior.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Developed Countries
  • Diet
  • Exercise*
  • Humans
  • Sedentary Behavior*