Ethnic differences in physical activity, dietary intake, obesity and blood pressure among young children in the UK

Knowles, Gemma (2015). Ethnic differences in physical activity, dietary intake, obesity and blood pressure among young children in the UK. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Introduction: Early-life differences in cardiovascular risk factors could contribute to ethnic differences in cardiometabolic disease in adulthood. The aim of this thesis was to investigate ethnic differences in lifestyle factors, adiposity and blood pressure among 5-6 year old children in the UK. Methods: Cross-sectional data on blood pressure, anthropometric measures, sociodemographics, dietary intake, ethnicity, and objectively-measured physical activity, were analysed (n=1470 consented children; 45% White British, 30% South Asian, 8% Black African/Caribbean). Results: Compared with White British children, South Asian children had higher, and Black African/Caribbean children had similar or lower, levels of total and central adiposity. Pakistani and Black African/Caribbean boys did more moderate-vigorous physical activity, whereas South Asian girls did less compared with their White British peers. South Asian and Black African/Caribbean children had lower or similar blood pressure compared with White British children. Sodium intake was highest among Black African children. Sugar intake was lower among all minority ethnic groups compared with White British children. Conclusions: The findings highlight several early-life ethnic differences which could plausibly contribute to cardiovascular health inequalities in adulthood. Early childhood might offer a key opportunity to prevent or reduce ethnic differences in cardiovascular and metabolic disease later in life.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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