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01-02-2021 | Original Article

A population-based study of children in northern Cyprus: physical activity and its comparison in sociodemographic variables and several opportunities/barriers

Authors: Zehra Güçhan Topcu, Beliz Belgen Kaygısız, Özge Çakır, Ender Angın, Tuğba Obuz, Cemaliye Hürer, Aydın Özdinç, Yazgı Şentürk, Selma Uzuner, Hayriye Tomaç, Hüseyin Özkader, Mehtap Malkoç

Published in: Journal of Public Health | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the level of physical activity of children and reveal a physical activity map in Northern Cyprus. Relevant factors, facilitators, and inhibitors for physical activity were also investigated.

Methods

Sample size and pilot schools were determined for the cross-sectional population-based study. Region, school, class, age, and gender were recorded. The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) was used as a self-report questionnaire. Time spent on screen-based activities and presence of a park were examined.

Results

The data for 2283 (1131 = girls) children were used in the study. The mean PAQ-C score of all children was determined as 3.48 ± 0.71. Gender, age ,and region significantly changed the PAQ-C scores of the children (p < 0.05). The children who stated that their homes had neighbourhood park areas had higher PAQ-C levels than those who stated otherwise (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the levels of PA of the children who spent normal time and excess time for technological devices with screen (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Physical activity and related sociodemographic comparisons were indicated for the children living in Northern Cyprus. While park availability was found essential to support the physical activity levels as an opportunity, screen-based activities were not found to be have an effect on physical activity as a barrier.

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Title: A population-based study of children in northern Cyprus: physical activity and its comparison in sociodemographic variables and several opportunities/barriers
Authors: Zehra Güçhan Topcu
Beliz Belgen Kaygısız
Özge Çakır
Ender Angın
Tuğba Obuz
Cemaliye Hürer
Aydın Özdinç
Yazgı Şentürk
Selma Uzuner
Hayriye Tomaç
Hüseyin Özkader
Mehtap Malkoç
Publication date: 01-02-2021
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Journal of Public Health / Issue 1/2021
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-020-01297-w

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

A population-based study of children in northern Cyprus: physical activity and its comparison in sociodemographic variables and several opportunities/barriers

Abstract

Aims

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Aims

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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