A Comparison of Associations Between Self-Reported and Device-Based Sedentary Behavior and Obesity Markers in Adults: A Multi-National Cross-Sectional Study

Assessment. 2022 Oct;29(7):1441-1457. doi: 10.1177/10731911211017637. Epub 2021 May 28.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between self-reported and device-based measures of sedentary behavior (SB) with obesity markers in adults from Latin American countries. Sitting time and total time spent in different SBs were self-reported using two different questionnaires. Accelerometers were used to assess total sedentary time. Body mass index, waist, and neck circumferences were assessed. The highest self-reported sitting time was in Argentina, the highest total time spent in different SBs was in Brazil and Costa Rica, and the highest device-based sedentary time was observed in Peru. Neither self-reported sitting time, total time spent in different SBs or device-based sedentary time were associated with body mass index. Device-based sedentary time was positively associated with waist circumference and self-reported sitting time was positively associated with neck circumference. Caution is warranted when comparing the associations of self-reported and device-based assessments of SB with anthropometric variables.

Keywords: anthropometric measurements.; body composition; neck circumference; obesity; sedentary behavior; sitting time.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Obesity*
  • Sedentary Behavior*
  • Self Report
  • Waist Circumference