Physical activity versus nutritional habits of children and teenagers in Ciechanów district

Introduction. One of the most important factors causing the civilisation illnesses is lower physical activity, sedentary lifestyle and unfavourable
nutritional habits. Among the young the growing problem is obesity which is the result of the previously mentioned factors. The obesity problem
touches 2.5-12% of Polish population. Regular exercises with appropriate strength is considered to be the vital factor in obesity prevention.
Aim of the study. To get to know the level of physical activity and nutritional behaviour as well as the link between those among the young
form Ciechanów district.

Material and methods. The research was conducted with a survey among 899 students of primary, junior and secondary schools both in
the town and in the villages. The results were analysed statistically and using hypothesis analysis.

Results. Four hundred and fifty seven boys and 442 girls took part in the research. The results show that 28% of the questioned presented an
average level of physical activity, 22% satisfactory, 20% low, 16% unsatisfactory. The lowest percentage (14%) was characterised by high level
of activity. Among 50% of the questioned represented average nutritional behaviour, as high as 30% low and 9% unsatisfactory. Satisfying habits
were shown among 10% of the questioned. The high level of nutritional behaviour was found among only 1% of the surveyed. There is a strong statistic link (p < 0.05) between the level of nutritional behaviour and the physical activity level. The relation is the strongest
in the subgroup of obese people or those who are in danger of become obese. No statistic differences were found between the level of
nutritional behaviour and physical activity in the group of obese and those in danger of becoming ones and those with correct weight and slim.

Conclusions. There is a strong need to making the young aware about the beneficial nutritional behaviour and physical activity on health. It
is necessary to encourage the young generation to active way of spending their free time.

Nursing Topics 2010; 18 (2): 176-183