Search Results (734)

Background/Objectives: Adolescence represents a critical period for the formation of lifestyle habits that often persist into adulthood, significantly shaping long-term health outcomes and contributing to the development of non-communicable diseases. This study aims to assess the impact of Food Game, a secondary school-based programme, delivered throughout the academic year, to promote healthy eating, physical activity, and sustainability awareness among students. Methods: As part of the Food Game programme, 184 adolescents aged 14–16 years from the Milan area (Italy) completed two questionnaires, administered before and after the intervention (November 2024, April 2025), evaluating dietary habits, lifestyle behaviours, and attitudes toward sustainability. This uncontrolled intervention study assessed dietary changes using a composite score [0–14], with higher scores indicating healthier eating patterns. Pre–post intervention differences were analysed using paired t-tests for continuous variables and McNemar’s test for categorical variables. Results: After participation in Food Game, a significant improvement in mean dietary score from 7.6 to 8.2 (p < 0.001) occurred. Overall, 28.3% of the students worsened their score and 53.2% improved (≥1-point increase), including a significant improvement (≥2-point increase) in 29.4%. Fruit, vegetable, and fish intake increased, while consumption of meat, processed meat, and snacks decreased (p < 0.05). Waste recycling did not change (94.6%), and tap water non-significantly increased. No significant changes were observed in water intake, physical activity, screen time, or addictive behaviours. Conclusions: These findings support the potential of peer-led gamified interventions to promote healthier eating in youth. Future controlled studies are required to rigorously evaluate the Food Game programme’s effectiveness in relation to adolescents’ diet, lifestyle, and sustainability habits. Full article

Background/Objectives: The present study aimed to examine how obesity and its distribution influence the relationship between healthy lifestyle habits and cardiometabolic health indicators in adolescents. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 340 adolescents (54.8% female; mean age, 16.6 ± 1.0 years) from Brazil. The cardiometabolic variables included systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), and markers of lipid and glucose metabolism. Information on regular physical activity, healthy diet, reduced alcohol consumption, and non-smoking was collected via a self-reported questionnaire. Body mass index, waist circumference, and skinfold measurements were assessed to determine general obesity, abdominal obesity, and excess body fat, respectively. Multiple linear regression, adjusted for confounding factors, was employed for the analysis. Results: The adoption of ≥3 healthy lifestyle habits was directly associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (up to 1.2 mg/dL) and inversely associated with triglycerides (up to −0.11 p.p.). Engaging in multiple healthy lifestyle habits was inversely associated with SBP among adolescents with general (p = 0.018) and central obesity (p = 0.004). Furthermore, the adoption of multiple healthy lifestyle habits was inversely associated with CRP in adolescents with central obesity (p = 0.037). Conclusions: Even in adolescents with obesity, it is speculated that the adoption of healthy habits may contribute to a reduction in cardiometabolic risk, given the inverse association with SBP in those with general and central obesity and the inverse association with CRP in adolescents with central obesity. Full article

Background: “Healthy Life Longevity” (a latent variable) is defined as the number of survival days, along with recommended subjective health and long-term care needs. This study aimed to clarify the structural relationships among several related factors. Methods: In September 2001, a postal survey using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted among 16,462 elderly residents of Tokyo. In a cohort study, 8162 individuals with confirmed survival after six years were examined. We analyzed data to evaluate the need for long-term care three years after the initial survey. Additionally, the number of days survived was calculated from the third year after the initial survey. Covariance structure analysis was used to explore the structural relationships. Results: The direct effects of lifestyle habits, including a healthy diet, dental care rather than physician care, and socioeconomic factors, were minimal in improving “Healthy Life Longevity.” However, a structural relationship was established: desirable lifestyles, including diet and dental care, were selected based on socioeconomic status, thereby influencing mental, physical, and social health and reducing disease incidence. This relationship ultimately enhanced “Healthy Life Longevity.” Socioeconomic factors were identified as confounders in the association between preferred lifestyle choices, including diet, and Healthy Life Longevity. The determination coefficient of “Healthy Life Longevity” is 83%. Conclusions: Although healthy longevity can be achieved by improving mental, physical, and social health, and reducing disease burden, the relevant structure is shaped by socioeconomic status. Additionally, socioeconomic status is associated with healthy longevity by facilitating the choice of a preferred lifestyle, including diet, and the selection of a dentist. Future randomized intervention studies focused on socioeconomic status should explore ways to promote healthy longevity. Full article

Background: Among many deleterious effects on the well-being of children and youth, the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a surge in youth mental health distress. This, coupled with pre-existing prolonged wait times for mental health care, highlighted the need for accessible community-based mental health supports. The Healthy Living Project (HELP) is a virtual lifestyle change support program aimed at promoting positive lifestyle changes and improved mental well-being among youth with mental distress. A pilot feasibility study explored youth engagement with HELP e-resources, and preliminary mental health and lifestyle measures over a 3-month period. Methods: Youth were enrolled in a 3-month pilot of the HELP e-resource. Feasibility metrics (recruitment, retention, and platform engagement) were documented, while exploratory self-reported data on emotional and behavioral difficulties, youth quality of life, sedentary behavior (screen time), sleep hygiene, and physical activity were assessed at baseline and 3 months. Results: Twenty-three youth (mean age 15.7 years, SD 1.7) completed baseline assessments and started the intervention, with ten participants retained by the end of the study. Compared with non-completers (n = 13), study completers (n = 10) tended to report higher quality of life and healthier habits (lower screen time, improved sleep hygiene, and higher activity). Ongoing access to HELP over 3 months was associated with suggestive trends toward improvement in emotional and behavioral difficulties and sleep hygiene. Engaged participants who received screen time education tended to report lower screen times as compared to unengaged counterparts. Conclusions: This study provides early insights into the implementation and acceptability of HELP e-resources among youth experiencing mental distress, with suggestive trends toward potential benefit. Low recruitment and high attrition preclude definitive conclusions, and the findings should be interpreted as exploratory. Lessons from this pilot will inform the design of a subsequent trial to more rigorously evaluate feasibility and the potential impact of HELP on youth with mental distress. Full article

Background: Childhood obesity represents the most common nutritional and metabolic disorder in industrialized countries and constitutes a major public health concern. In Italy, 20–25% of school-aged children are overweight and 10–14% are obese, with marked regional variability. Excess adiposity in childhood is frequently associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), predisposing to future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Objective: To investigate anthropometric indicators of cardiometabolic risk in 810 children and adolescents aged 7–17 years who underwent assessment for competitive sports eligibility at the Sports Medicine Unit of Modena, evaluate baseline knowledge of cardiovascular health aligned with ESC, AAP (2023), and EASO guidelines. Methods: 810 children and adolescents aged 7–17 years undergoing competitive sports eligibility assessment at the Sports Medicine Unit of Modena underwent evaluation of BMI percentile, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and blood pressure. Cardiovascular knowledge and lifestyle habits were assessed via a previously used questionnaire. Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure (BP), and lifestyle-related knowledge and behaviors were assessed using standardized procedures. Overweight and obesity were defined according to WHO BMI-for-age percentiles. Elevated BP was classified based on the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics age-, sex-, and height-specific percentiles. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, group comparisons, chi-square tests with effect size estimation, correlation analyses, and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: Overall, 22% of participants were overweight and 14% obese. WHtR > 0.5 was observed in 28% of the sample and was more frequent among overweight/obese children (p < 0.001). Elevated BP was detected in 12% of participants with available measurements (n = 769) and was significantly associated with excess adiposity (χ² = 7.21, p < 0.01; Cramér’s V = 0.27). In multivariable logistic regression analyses adjusted for age and sex, WHtR > 0.5 (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.32–3.47, p = 0.002) and higher sedentary time (OR 1.41 per additional daily hour, 95% CI 1.10–1.82, p = 0.006) were independently associated with elevated BP, whereas BMI percentile lost significance when WHtR was included in the model. Lifestyle knowledge scores were significantly lower among overweight and obese participants compared with normal-weight peers (p < 0.01). Conclusions: WHtR is a sensitive early marker of cardiometabolic risk, often identifying at-risk children missed by BMI alone. Baseline cardiovascular knowledge was suboptimal. The observed gaps in cardiovascular knowledge underscore the importance of integrating anthropometric screening with structured educational interventions to promote healthy lifestyles and long-term cardiovascular prevention. Full article

Background & Objectives: Periodontal disease (PD) is a common oral disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth and is a leading cause of tooth loss worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PD among 9th-grade teachers in the northern West Bank and examine its association with key behavioral and socioeconomic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 920 teachers selected through proportional stratified random sampling from governmental and private schools. Periodontal health was assessed using the WHO Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs (CPITN), and oral hygiene status was measured with the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (S-OHI). A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on socioeconomic status, oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and smoking behaviours. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Only 11.8% of participants exhibited completely healthy gingiva, with the mean condition ranging between calculus and shallow pockets. Oral hygiene practices were the strongest predictors of periodontal outcomes: frequent tooth brushing (Adjusted Odds Ratio: AOR = 0.015), morning brushing (AOR = 0.015), and regular toothbrush replacement (AOR = 2.514) were protective. Higher red meat intake was negatively associated with periodontal health (AOR = 0.032), while frequent nut consumption was protective (AOR = 0.227). The number of cigarettes smoked per week was positively associated with PD (AOR = 1.085). Conclusions: PD is highly prevalent among Palestinian adults, with significant behavioural and lifestyle-related determinants. Targeted oral health interventions are urgently needed to improve adults’ oral health. Full article

Background/Objectives: The Mediterranean diet (MD) constitutes one of the most broadly studied dietary patterns, which has been linked to the prevention of non-communicable diseases and mental health disorders. University students, a population exposed to significant psychosocial stressors and lifestyle changes, may particularly benefit from healthy eating patterns such as the MD. This study was designed to examine the potential associations of MD adherence with symptoms of depression and anxiety among Greek university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was initially conducted among 7160 active university students from ten diverse geographic regions in Greece. After the enrollment procedure and the application of relevant exclusion criteria, 5191 university students (52.0% female; mean age: 21.3 ± 2.4 years) constituted the study population. MD adherence was assessed using the KIDMED index, while depressive and anxiety symptoms were evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6), respectively. Sociodemographic and anthropometric data were collected for all the enrolled university students. All the questionnaires were completed by face-to-face interviews with expert personnel. Results: Students with low adherence to the MD were significantly more likely to report symptoms of depression (OR = 2.12; p ˂ 0.001) and anxiety (OR = 2.27; p ˂ 0.001) and to be overweight or obese (OR = 2.45; p ˂ 0.001) after adjustment for multiple confounding factors. Low MD adherence was also associated with male gender (OR = 0.73; p ˂ 0.01), living alone (OR = 0.78; p ˂ 0.01), smoking (OR = 0.75; p ˂ 0.01), low physical activity (OR = 1.84; p = 0.001), and poorer academic performance (OR = 0.83; p ˂ 0.01). Conclusions: Low adherence to the MD is significantly associated with increased likelihood of depression, anxiety, and excess body weight among university students in Greece. These findings underscore the importance of promoting healthy dietary habits and related lifestyle behaviors in young adult populations as a potential strategy for mental health prevention and intervention. Due to the presence of several limitations in the present study, future longitudinal and interventional studies should be performed to confirm the present findings. Full article

Background: Eating habits such as fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption and breakfast frequency are well recognized for their contribution to overall health and well-being. However, the psychological mechanisms that explain the link between these habits and life satisfaction remain poorly explored among university students in the health sciences. Objective: To examine whether positive affect mediates the relationship between FV consumption, breakfast frequency, and life satisfaction among health sciences students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 511 students. FV consumption, breakfast frequency, positive affect, and life satisfaction were assessed using self-report measures. Mediation models were applied to estimate direct and indirect associations. Results: FV consumption and breakfast frequency were positively associated with both positive affect and life satisfaction. Although the direct associations with life satisfaction were not significant, the indirect associations through positive affect were significant (FV: β = 0.114, 95% CI [0.055, 0.173]; breakfast: β = 0.133, 95% CI [0.073, 0.192]). The model accounted for 51.4% of the variance in life satisfaction. Conclusions: The results highlight the role of positive affect as a psychological mechanism linking everyday eating habits to life satisfaction, emphasizing the need to integrate emotional components into strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles among university populations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Eating mindfulness and healthy lifestyle behaviors play a key role in preventing unhealthy weight gain. Understanding how these behaviors differ according to exercise habits can guide interventions targeting women’s health. This study aimed to compare healthy lifestyle behaviors and eating mindfulness between women with and without regular exercise habits. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical, and descriptive study was conducted with 156 women: a Regular Exercise Group (REG, n = 68) and a Non-Exercise Group (NEG, n = 88). Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ-30) and the Healthy Lifestyle Behavior Scale II (HLBS-II), along with dietary records and anthropometric measurements. Results: The REG scored significantly higher in eating discipline (p = 0.003) and in HLBS-II subscales of physical activity, nutrition, and stress management (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in total MEQ scores, BMI-related nutrient intake, or other HLBS-II dimensions (p > 0.05). BMI values and smoking rates were lower in the REG (p < 0.05). Univariate logistic regression showed that BMI, eating discipline, physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and total HPLP-II scores were significantly associated with regular exercise (p < 0.05). In the multivariate model, BMI (OR = 1.114, 95% CI: 1.021–1.216) remained independently associated with regular exercise status. Conclusions: Although eating discipline was higher in the REG, overall mindful eating levels did not differ between groups. BMI were the strongest independent variables associated with regular exercise status, suggesting that while exercise supports positive lifestyle patterns, enhancing mindful eating may require additional targeted interventions. Full article

This study evaluated the clinical utility of a polygenic risk score (PRS)-based multigene panel test for predicting diabetes mellitus (DM) in a healthy population. A total of 302 individuals underwent genetic testing using the HelloGene™ DM panel, which includes four DM-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (CDKAL1, HHEX, KCNQ1, and TCF7L2). PRS values were calculated using an algorithm developed from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES; n = 39,605), and participants were classified into four genetic risk groups (low, moderate, high, and very high). Fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and body mass index were assessed at baseline and after at least three years of follow-up, and lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, and exercise status were recorded. No significant differences in age, sex, or lifestyle habits were observed among PRS groups. The very high-risk group showed significantly higher follow-up fasting blood glucose levels (p = 0.001) and higher baseline and follow-up HbA1c levels (p = 0.0025 and p = 0.001, respectively), as well as a 4.5-fold increased risk of developing DM compared with other groups. Smoking significantly modified genetic risk, with smokers in the very high-risk group showing a 25% higher likelihood of developing DM. CDKAL1 and TCF7L2 variants were most prevalent in the moderate- and high-risk groups, while HHEX variants in the high-risk group showed the greatest susceptibility, particularly among current smokers. Overall, PRS-based genetic testing demonstrated potential clinical utility for stratifying individuals according to relative diabetes risk, highlighting a possible interaction between genetic susceptibility and lifestyle factors such as smoking Full article

Objectives: We investigated the association between children’s waking time and bedtime and contents of home meals, focusing on ‘skipping breakfast’ and ‘meal of staple food, main dish, and side dish’ (SMS meal). Methods: A cross-sectional survey concerning children’s lifestyle habits and dietary habits was conducted at seven primary schools within Saga Prefecture in northern Kyushu, Japan, with 2457 parents/guardians participating. Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association of sleep hours, wake-up time, and bedtime, with breakfast skipping and having SMS meals. Results: Elementary schoolchildren sleeping for ≥9 hours were more likely to have parents/guardians in their 30s, who were full-time parents and maintained a healthy diet. Wake-up times and bedtimes were significantly associated with breakfast skipping frequency. Compared to the wake-up time from 6:30 to 6:59, ORs for the frequency of skipping breakfast was 0.52 (95% CI: 0.36–0.74, p < 0.001), for those waking before 6:29 and 2.23 (95% CI: 1.64–3.04; p < 0.001) for those waking after 7:00.Frequency of skipping breakfast decreased with earlier bedtimes. Compared to bedtimes from 21:00 to 21:59, ORs for having SMS meals were 0.64 for those with bedtimes before 21:00 (95% CI: 0.25–1.64) and 2.35 for those with bedtimes after 22:00 (95% CI: 1.77–3.11, p < 0.001). Compared to wake-up times from 6:30 to 6:59, waking up both before 6:29 (OR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.63–0.94, p < 0.01) and at 7:00 or after (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.00–1.69, p = 0.05) were associated with breakfast and dinner with SMS meals. A statistical interaction existed between wake-up time/bedtime and breakfast skipping. Compared to those waking before 6:30 and sleeping before 22:00, waking after 7:00 and sleeping after 22:00 was associated with skipping breakfast (OR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.48–3.01; p for interaction = 0.04). Thus, children should sleep before 22:00 and wake up before 7:00 to prevent breakfast skipping and ensure a well-balanced diet with SMS meals. The ‘Early to Bed, Early to Rise, and Don’t Forget Your Breakfast’ initiative significantly improved elementary schoolchildren’s eating habits. Conclusions: Sleep hours, bedtime, and wake-up times are important factors affecting Japanese schoolchildren’s dietary habits, specifically in terms of breakfast skipping and having SMS meals. Full article

Mothers’ behavior strongly influences children’s eating habits, with family attitudes and feeding practices playing a key role in dietary development. In accordance with the previous literature, this study examined these aspects, including also mothers’ use of social media to stay informed about nutrition as an innovative element. The main goal was to validate the Italian version of the PSEPAD scale (Parental Self-Efficacy for Promoting Healthy Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviors in Children), which is a valid and reliable tool for assessing parental self-efficacy in encouraging healthy lifestyles in children, through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The sample was composed of 217 mothers. Results were interpreted through groups comparisons (chi-square, ANOVA, and t-test). The findings confirmed the central role of mothers in managing children’s diets and using strategies against picky eating behaviors. The study also highlighted the growing use of social media among mothers, especially younger ones, as a source of nutritional information, meal planning, and peer support, despite a generally low level of satisfaction with the content available on pediatric nutrition. Finally, the results showed a positive link between maternal self-efficacy and healthier child behaviors: mothers with higher self-esteem and confidence were more effective in promoting healthy habits. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions to strengthen maternal self-efficacy and the development of digital tools to support healthy family lifestyles. Full article

Background: Childhood overweight and obesity represent growing public health challenges globally, driven by complex interactions between demographic, behavioral, and familial factors. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among school-aged children and adolescents attending urban schools in the Aseer Region of Saudi Arabia (Abha and Khamis Mushait). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 413 urban school students aged 6–18 years. Anthropometric measurements were obtained using standardized procedures, and lifestyle behaviors were assessed through a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multivariate binary logistic regression. Variables with p < 0.05 in univariate analysis, alongside conceptually relevant predictors, were included in the final model. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. Results: The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity was high, particularly among older age groups and secondary-school students. Significant associations were found between BMI category and age, school level, parental education, and family history of obesity. Lifestyle behaviors including fast-food consumption, low fruit and vegetable intake, prolonged screen time, and short sleep duration showed strong relationships with overweight/obesity. In the adjusted model, key predictors included frequent fast-food intake (AOR = 2.74), low fruit/vegetable intake (AOR = 2.20), physical inactivity (AOR = 1.70), high screen time (AOR = 2.40), short sleep duration (AOR = 1.55), and positive family history of obesity (AOR = 3.10). Conclusions: Childhood overweight and obesity in the Aseer Region are influenced by both modifiable lifestyle behaviors and familial predisposition. Targeted interventions promoting healthy dietary habits, adequate physical activity, reduced screen time, and sufficient sleep are essential. Preventive strategies should prioritize adolescents and children with a family history of obesity to effectively reduce obesity risk. Full article

Background/Objective: Hypertension is a major global health concern and a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Lifestyle behaviors, such as diet, physical activity, stress management, and self-confidence, markedly influence hypertension control. Exploring these behaviors can inform culturally relevant interventions for improving the prevention and management of hypertension and health outcomes of affected individuals. This study aimed to determine the effects of lifestyle behaviors, including dietary habits, physical activity, stress management, and self-confidence, on optimizing hypertension control among individuals in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive–correlational design was used. Data were collected from 136 patients with hypertension attending primary healthcare centers in Saudi Arabia using validated scales for dietary habits, physical activity, perceived stress, and self-confidence, alongside blood pressure measurements. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26. Results: The study revealed that most participants reported reasonably healthy dietary practices, low physical activity, and moderate stress and self-confidence. Significant sex differences (p < 0.05) were observed, with men and women reporting higher physical activity and stress, respectively. Education and age influenced dietary habits and self-confidence. Regression analysis identified age, education, and urban residence as predictors (p < 0.05) of blood pressure status, while stress, diet, and physical activity affected self-confidence and perceived stress levels. Conclusions: Hypertension management is influenced by interconnected lifestyle and psychosocial factors, and improving dietary habits, physical activity, stress management, and self-confidence is essential. Tailored interventions addressing demographic differences can enhance self-care behaviors and facilitate better hypertension control among Saudi individuals. Full article

Background: Croatia has the highest prevalence of obesity among European Union member states, with more than 65% of adults classified as overweight or obese. Understanding public perceptions and behaviours related to body weight is essential for designing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Objective: This study compared Croatian adults’ satisfaction with body weight, physical fitness, and dietary habits in 2022 and 2024, exploring potential behavioural changes following national awareness campaigns and the introduction of new anti-obesity measures. Methods: Data were collected via computer-assisted web interviews (CAWI) from representative national samples of adults aged 18 years and older (N = 798; 398 in 2022, 400 in 2024). Analyses used descriptive statistics, Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests for categorical variables, and independent t-tests for continuous variables. Results: In both years, fewer than half of respondents were satisfied with their body weight or physical fitness. Obesity prevalence rose slightly among men (from 18.9% to 25.4%), while rates among women remained stable. Although 93% of women and 78% of men were aware of BMI, only 21% knew their exact value. Individuals with obesity were significantly more dissatisfied with their body shape (p < 0.001). One-third reported dieting within the past six months, and only one in ten sought medical advice for weight management. Lack of time and the high cost of healthy foods were the most frequently cited barriers to healthier lifestyles. Conclusions: Body weight satisfaction and lifestyle habits among Croatian adults remain suboptimal. Targeted, gender-sensitive, and web-based interventions are needed to promote awareness, improve self-perception accuracy, and enhance obesity prevention efforts. Full article