RT Journal
A1 Epstein LH, Paluch RA, Gordy CC, Dorn J
T1 DEcreasing sedentary behaviors in treating pediatric obesity
JF Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
JO Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
YR 2000
FD March 1
VO 154
IS 3
SP 220
OP 226
DO 10.1001/archpedi.154.3.220
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/archpedi.154.3.220
AB Background 
    Epidemiogical studies have shown television watching to be a risk factor for the development of obesity in children. The effect of reducing television watching and other sedentary behaviors as a component of a comprehensive obesity treatment program has not been thoroughly tested.Objective 
    To compare the influence of targeting decreases in sedentary behavior vs increases in physical activity in the comprehensive treatment of obesity in 8- to 12-year-old children.Design 
    Randomized, controlled outcome study.Setting 
    Childhood obesity research clinic.Design 
    Ninety families with obese 8- to 12-year-old children were randomly assigned to groups that were provided a comprehensive family-based behavioral weight control program that included dietary and behavior change information but differed in whether sedentary or physically active behaviors were targeted and the degree of behavior change required.Results 
    Results during 2 years showed that targeting either decreased sedentary behaviors or increased physical activity was associated with significant decreases in percent overweight and body fat and improved aerobic fitness. Self-reported activity minutes increased and targeted sedentary time decreased during treatment. Children substituted nontargeted sedentary behaviors for some of their targeted sedentary behaviors.Conclusion 
    These results support reducing sedentary behaviors as an adjunct in the treatment of pediatric obesity.