A descriptive study of body mass index and pedometer-determined physical activity of Guamnanian adolescents

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to examine physical activity and Body Mass Index (BMI) in Guamanian adolescents. Methods: A total of 192 adolescents, (105 Chamorro, 45 Filipino, & 42 Other) ethnicity in grades 6-8 wore sealed pedometers for 8 consecutive days. Height and weight measures was used to measure determine. Results: Boys (8537 ± 2698) accumulated approximately 1,200 (14%) more than girls (7369 ± 2343)(P<.01). No ethnic and grade main effect found in PA. Results indicated overweight status by sex. There were no significant differences found in BMI sex, grade, and ethnicity. Interaction (p < .01) main effect for boys normal weight group (9018 ± 2930) accumulated approximately 1,100 (12%) more steps/day than at-risk/overweight BMI group. In contrast, girls at-risk/overweight group (7826 ± 2617) accumulated approximately 700 (9%) more steps per day than normal weight group. Conclusion: Guamanian adolescents accumulated approximately 2,000-5,000 steps/day than the U.S. counterparts. The overweight prevalence of Guamanian adolescents (25%) was higher than the national average (15%). Further, interventions are needed to reduce the prevalence of overweight in Guamanian adolescents.