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Prevalence of physical inactivity and associated factors among adolescents commuting to school

The aim of this study was to verify the prevalence of physical inactivity and associated factors among adolescents commuting to school. This was an epidemiological study based on secondary data from a sample of 4,207 adolescents (14-19 years). Data were collected through a previously validated questionnaire (GSHS-WHO). Adolescents were classified as "inactive in commuting" when they reported not commuting to school actively (e.g., walking or bicycling) and/or spent less than 20 minutes getting to and from school. 43% (95%CI: 41.5-44.5) of adolescents were physically inactive in commuting. Place of residence and maternal schooling were statistically associated with outcome (inactivity in commuting to school) (p < 0.01). Among male adolescents, physical inactivity in commuting was significantly associated with age (p = 0.02) and skin color (p = 0.04). Inactivity in commuting was relatively common when compared to other studies.

Motor Activity; Walking; Bicycling; Adolescent


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