Evaluation of the levels of physical activity amongst Primary School children in Malta.

Abstract

Background

Malta is currently facing a childhood obesity epidemic. Almost 40% of primary and 42% of secondary school children are overweight or obese secondary to energy imbalances and increase in sedentary behaviour. Lack of physical activity is another risk factor for childhood obesity and hence adult obesity, leading to various physical, psychological, social and economic complications. The aim of the study was to assess general levels of physical activity in Maltese primary school children.

Methods

One hundred and twenty, 9-year-old children from three state primary schools completed the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C).  The PAQ-C measures general levels of physical activity in children in terms of frequency, intensity and duration. It consists of ten items, covering different time-of-day segments for physical activity and scored using a five-point scale.

Results

On average, children underwent physical activity twice in their spare time during week days. Children were mostly active during Physical Education lessons and school breaks. During weekends, children were involved in active games an average of 2-3 times. In general, children described themselves as partaking in physical activity, 3-4 times during the whole week, which is less than once daily. Physical activity frequency is low in Maltese children, potentially because of extreme academic pressure as well as preferential involvement in sedentary activities.

Conclusion

School breaks and Physical Educations lessons should be used to their maximum potential to provide the best possible exercise for our children through school-based physical activity interventions to combat childhood obesity.