Clustering of specific health-related behaviours among Toronto adolescents

Can J Diet Pract Res. 2011 Fall;72(3):e155-60. doi: 10.3148/72.3.2011.e155.

Abstract

Purpose: The clustering of specific health-related behaviours was examined among adolescents.

Methods: In 2005, cluster analysis was conducted to identify homogeneous groups of Toronto, Ontario, 14- to 17-year-old adolescents (n=445) with similar behaviour patterns according to self-reported measures of moderate to vigorous physical activity (metabolic equivalent [MET] hours a week of MVPA), sedentary behaviours (viewing television or videos, using a computer/the internet, doing homework, and talking with friends), fruit and vegetable consumption, and alcohol consumption.

Results: Three clusters of adolescents were identified: "active, high screen-time users," "active, low screen-time users," and "less active, least frequent drinkers."

Conclusions: Identifying clusters of adolescents with similar health-related behaviour patterns suggests that researchers and practitioners should develop and implement interventions tailored to specific clusters.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Body Mass Index
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Computers
  • Diet
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Female
  • Fruit
  • Health Behavior*
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Motor Activity*
  • Ontario
  • Sedentary Behavior*
  • Television
  • Vegetables