David Crawford

Which food-related behaviours are associated with healthier intakes of fruits and vegetables among women?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 03-2007

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980007246798

Abstract: To examine associations between shopping, food preparation, meal and eating behaviours and fruit and vegetable intake among women. Cross-sectional survey. Community-based s le from metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. A s le of 1136 women aged 18–65 years, randomly selected from the electoral roll. Food-related behaviours reflecting organisation and forward-planning, as well as enjoyment of and high perceived value of meal shopping, preparation and consumption were associated with healthier intakes of fruits and vegetables. For ex le, women who more frequently planned meals before they went shopping, wrote a shopping list, enjoyed food shopping, planned in the morning what they will eat for dinner that night, planned what they will eat for lunch, reported they enjoy cooking, liked trying new recipes and who reported they sometimes prepare dishes ahead of time were more likely to consume two or more servings of vegetables daily. Conversely, women who frequently found cooking a chore, spent less than 15 minutes preparing dinner, decided on the night what they will eat for dinner, ate in a fast-food restaurant, ate takeaway meals from a fast-food restaurant, ate dinner and snacks while watching television and who frequently ate on the run were less likely to eat two or more servings of vegetables daily. Practical strategies based on these behavioural characteristics could be trialled in interventions aimed at promoting fruit and vegetable consumption among women.

Validity of a brief self-report instrument for assessing compliance with physical activity guidelines amongst adolescents

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2011.09.003

Abstract: To examine the validity of a brief self-report questionnaire for assessing physical activity, and compliance and non-compliance with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) recommendations in Australian adolescents against accelerometry. Cross-sectional study. MVPA of 203 adolescents (124 females, 79 males) aged 15-17 years was objectively assessed for 8 consecutive days using uni-axial accelerometers and calculated using age-specific cut-points. Adolescents self-reported the number of days (0-7) they were physically active for a total of at least 60 min/day (1) over the past 7 days and (2) over a typical week. Compliance with physical activity recommendations was defined as (1) 5 and (2) 7 days of self-reported MVPA (of at least 60 min/day), and (3) ≥60 min MVPA per average day, and (4) >60 min MVPA on every day according to accelerometry. Spearman's Rho correlations analysed the association between accelerometry-derived MVPA/day and self-reported MVPA days/week for the whole s le, sex and weight status. Percent agreement determined the proportion of adolescents correctly identified as not meeting physical activity recommendations (specificity) or as meeting physical activity recommendations (sensitivity) according to the self-report questionnaire. Moderate to large correlations were found between the self-report and accelerometer data (0.2-0.51) across population subgroups. The percent agreement between the self-report and accelerometry data was good for specificity however, the sensitivity was low, potentially due to poor compliance with recommendations. Compared to accelerometry, the brief MVPA self-report questionnaire appears to have acceptable validity for measuring non-compliance with physical activity recommendations in 15-17 year old adolescents.

Weight and place: A multilevel cross-sectional survey of area-level social disadvantage and overweight/obesity in Australia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 06-12-2006

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0803176

Abstract: To estimate variation between small areas in adult body mass index (BMI), and assess the importance of area level socioeconomic disadvantage in predicting BMI. We identified all census collector districts (CCDs) in the 20 innermost Local Government Areas in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia, and ranked them by the percentage of low income households (< dollar 400/week). In all, 50 CCDs were randomly selected from the least, middle and most disadvantaged septiles of the ranked list and 4913 residents (61.4% participation rate) completed one of two surveys. Multilevel linear regression was used to estimate area level variance in BMI and the importance of area level socioeconomic disadvantage in predicting BMI. There were significant variations in BMI between CCDs for women, even after adjustment for in idual and area SES (P = 0.012) significant area variation was not found for men. Living in the most versus least disadvantaged areas was associated with an average difference in BMI of 1.08 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.48-1.68 kg/m2) for women, and of 0.93 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.32-1.55 kg/m2) for men. Living in the mid versus least disadvantaged areas were associated with an average difference in BMI of 0.67 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.09-1.26 kg/m2) for women, and 0.43 kg/m2 for men (95% CI: -0.16-1.01). These findings suggest that area disadvantage is an important predictor of adult BMI, and support the need to focus on improving local environments to reduce socioeconomic inequalities in overweight and obesity.

A Parent-Focused Intervention to Reduce Infant Obesity Risk Behaviors: A Randomized Trial

Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Date: 04-2013

DOI: 10.1542/PEDS.2012-2576

Abstract: To assess the effectiveness of a parent-focused intervention on infants’ obesity-risk behaviors and BMI. This cluster randomized controlled trial recruited 542 parents and their infants (mean age 3.8 months at baseline) from 62 first-time parent groups. Parents were offered six 2-hour dietitian-delivered sessions over 15 months focusing on parental knowledge, skills, and social support around infant feeding, diet, physical activity, and television viewing. Control group parents received 6 newsletters on nonobesity-focused themes all parents received usual care from child health nurses. The primary outcomes of interest were child diet (3 × 24-hour diet recalls), child physical activity (accelerometry), and child TV viewing (parent report). Secondary outcomes included BMI z-scores (measured). Data were collected when children were 4, 9, and 20 months of age. Unadjusted analyses showed that, compared with controls, intervention group children consumed fewer grams of noncore drinks (mean difference = –4.45 95% confidence interval [CI]: –7.92 to –0.99 P = .01) and were less likely to consume any noncore drinks (odds ratio = 0.48 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.95 P = .034) midintervention (mean age 9 months). At intervention conclusion (mean age 19.8 months), intervention group children consumed fewer grams of sweet snacks (mean difference = –3.69 95% CI: –6.41 to –0.96 P = .008) and viewed fewer daily minutes of television (mean difference = –15.97: 95% CI: –25.97 to –5.96 P = .002). There was little statistical evidence of differences in fruit, vegetable, savory snack, or water consumption or in BMI z-scores or physical activity. This intervention resulted in reductions in sweet snack consumption and television viewing in 20-month-old children.

Food industry awareness of consumers' plant food beliefs

Publisher: Emerald

Date: 08-2005

DOI: 10.1108/00070700510610977

Abstract: The aims of this study were to examine farmers' and food processors' alignment with consumers' views about plant foods and their intentions to produce plant foods. Data on plant food beliefs were collected from mail surveys of farmers, food processing businesses and random population s les of adults in Victoria, Australia. There were strong differences between consumers' beliefs and farmers' and food processors' perceptions of consumers' beliefs. For ex le, a higher proportion of farmers and processors believed that consumers would eat more plant foods if more convenience‐oriented plant‐based meals were available than consumers themselves agreed. Farmers appeared to be more aware of or aligned with consumers' beliefs than were processors. One‐ and two‐thirds of farmers and processors respectively were planning to grow or process more plant foods, which bodes well for the availability of plant and plant‐based foods. Study limitations include the small food industry s le sizes and possible response bias, although analysis suggests the latter was low. Future research could survey a larger s le of food industry representatives, including those from other sectors (e.g. retailers). Education of consumers and industry groups on plant foods and better lines of communication from consumer to processor to farmer, are required. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to examine farmers' and food processors' awareness of consumers' beliefs about plant foods. This issue is important for those involved with the production and marketing of plant foods or with food, farming and health policy.

PRESENT AND DESIRED BODY WEIGHTS OF AUSTRALIAN ADULTS: A CAUSE FOR CONCERN?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-02-2010

DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.1987.TB00133.X

Abstract: Recent successes in the determination of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) structures have relied on the ability of receptor variants to overcome difficulties in expression and purification. Therefore, the quick screening of functionally expressed stable receptor variants is vital. We developed a platform using Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the rapid construction and evaluation of functional GPCR variants for structural studies. This platform enables us to perform a screening cycle from construction to evaluation of variants within 6-7 days. We firstly confirmed the functional expression of 25 full-length class A GPCRs in this platform. Then, in order to improve the expression level and stability, we generated and evaluated the variants of the four GPCRs (hADRB2, hCHRM2, hHRH1 and hNTSR1). These stabilized receptor variants improved both functional activity and monodispersity. Finally, the expression level of the stabilized hHRH1 in Pichia pastoris was improved up to 65 pmol/mg from negligible expression of the functional full-length receptor in S. cerevisiae at first screening. The stabilized hHRH1 was able to be purified for use in crystallization trials. We demonstrated that the S. cerevisiae system should serve as an easy-to-handle and rapid platform for the construction and evaluation of GPCR variants. This platform can be a powerful prescreening method to identify a suitable GPCR variant for crystallography.

Is availability of public open space equitable across areas?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2006.02.003

Abstract: This study examined whether availability of public open spaces that can be used for recreation varies according to neighbourhood socio-economic disadvantage. Density and area of public open spaces were examined using a geographic information system and postal boundaries were used to define neighbourhoods. Neighbourhood socio-economic status (SES) was stratified into quintiles. Once neighbourhood population and geographic area were considered there were no differences in the number or total area of free-access, restricted access or sporting/recreation open spaces across quintiles of neighbourhood SES. Future research should examine whether the quality of public open spaces differ by neighbourhood SES.

Home food availability mediates associations between mothers’ nutrition knowledge and child diet

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2013.07.006

Abstract: Evidence suggests that mothers' nutrition knowledge and home food availability (HFA) are directly and independently associated with children's food intakes. In this study we test the hypothesis that HFA mediates the association between maternal nutrition knowledge and child diet. In this cross-sectional study of Australian women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Melbourne, Australia, mothers with dependent children (aged 5-12 years) provided data on their child's diet, HFA, nutrition knowledge and a range of sociodemographic characteristics. To test our hypothesis we assessed associations between nutrition knowledge and HFA, and between HFA and child food intake (adjusting for nutrition knowledge and child age). In all instances significant associations were found. HFA was found to mediate relationships between mother's nutrition knowledge and children's intake of fruit, vegetables, salty foods and soft drink. Our analyses showed that HFA was a mediator of the associations between maternal nutrition knowledge and child's diet in this population. This supports a focus on nutrition education that expands mothers' understanding of what foods to buy, prepare and serve. Further exploration of these associations will provide a stronger evidence base upon which to inform 'best bets' for parent-focussed nutrition promotion seeking to promote children's healthy eating.

Three-year change in diet quality and associated changes in BMI among schoolchildren living in socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 28-04-2014

DOI: 10.1017/S0007114514000749

Abstract: Findings from research that has assessed the influence of dietary factors on child obesity have been equivocal. In the present study, we aimed to test the hypothesis that a positive change in diet quality is associated with favourable changes in BMI z -scores (zBMI) in schoolchildren from low socio-economic backgrounds and to examine whether this effect is modified by BMI category at baseline. The present study utilised data from a subs le ( n 216) of the Resilience for Eating and Activity Despite Inequality study, a longitudinal cohort study with data collected in 2007–8 (T1) and 2010–11 (T2) in socio-economically disadvantaged women and children (5–12 years at T1). Dietary data were collected using a FFQ and diet quality index (DQI) scores derived at both time points. The objective measures of weight, height and physical activity (accelerometers) were included. The other variables were reported in the questionnaires. We examined the association between change in DQI and change in zBMI, using linear regression analyses adjusted for physical activity, screen sedentary behaviour and maternal education level both in the whole s le and in the s le stratified by overweight status at baseline. After accounting for potential covariates, change in diet quality was found to be inversely associated with change in zBMI only in children who were overweight at baseline ( P = 0·035), thus supporting the hypothesis that improvement in diet quality is associated with a concurrent improvement in zBMI among already overweight children, but not among those with a normal BMI status. The identification of modifiable behaviours such as diet quality that affect zBMI longitudinally is valuable to inform future weight gain prevention interventions in vulnerable groups.

Active transport, independent mobility and territorial range among children residing in disadvantaged areas

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.JTH.2014.01.004

Individual, social and home environment determinants of change in children's television viewing: The Switch-Play intervention

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2006

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2006.06.018

Abstract: Understanding potential determinants of change in television (TV) viewing among children may enhance the effectiveness of programs targeting this behaviour. This study aimed to investigate the contribution of in idual, social and home environment factors among 10-year-old Australian children to change in TV viewing over a 21-month period. A total of 164 children (49% boys) completed a 19-lesson (9-month) intervention program to reduce TV viewing time. Children completed self-administered surveys four times over 21 months (pre- and post-intervention, 6- and 12-month follow-up). Baseline factors associated with change in TV viewing during the intervention and follow-up periods were: 'asking parents > or =once/week to switch off the TV and play with them' (21.6 min/day more than those reporting <once/week, p=0.007) being able to 'watch just 1h of TV per day' (26.1 min/day less than those who could not, p=0.010) 'watching TV no matter what was on' (36.6 min/day more than those who did not, p<0.001) and 'continuing to watch TV after their program was over' (33.0 min/day more than those who did not, p=0.006). With every unit increase in baseline frequency of TV viewing with family and friends, children spent on average 4.0 min/day more watching TV over the 21-month period (p=0.047). Baseline number and placement of TVs at home did not predict change in children's TV viewing over the 21 months. Greater understanding of the family dynamics and circumstances, as well as the in idual and social determinants of TV viewing, will be required if we are to develop effective strategies for reducing TV viewing in children.

Predictors of time spent outdoors among children: 5-year longitudinal findings

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 23-09-2010

DOI: 10.1136/JECH.2009.087460

Abstract: Given the importance of physical activity for health and age-related declines in physical activity, understanding influences on related behaviours, such as time outdoors, is crucial. This study aimed to understand in idual, social and physical environmental influences on longitudinal changes in urban children's time outdoors. The time children spent outdoors in 2001, 2004 and 2006 (aged 5-6 and 10-12 years at baseline) was reported by their parents (n=421). In 2001, in idual, social and physical environmental factors were self-reported by parents. Generalized estimating equations examined longitudinal relationships between baseline predictors and average change in time outdoors over 5 years. Children's time outdoors significantly declined over time. "Indoor tendencies" inversely predicted time outdoors among younger and older boys, and younger girls. Social opportunities positively predicted time outdoors among younger boys, while "outdoor tendencies" positively predicted time outdoors among older boys. Parental encouragement for activity positively predicted time outdoors among younger and older girls, while lack of adult supervision for active play outdoors after school inversely predicted time outdoors among older girls and older boys. In idual (indoor and outdoor tendencies) and social factors (social opportunities, parental encouragement and parental supervision) predicted children's time outdoors over 5 years. Interventions targeting reduced indoor tendencies, increased outdoor play with others, and increased parental encouragement and supervision are warranted.

Is a perceived supportive physical environment important for self-reported leisure time physical activity among socioeconomically disadvantaged women with poor psychosocial characteristics? An observa

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-03-2013

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-280

Abstract: Over the past decade, studies and public health interventions that target the physical environment as an avenue for promoting physical activity have increased in number. While it appears that a supportive physical environment has a role to play in promoting physical activity, social-ecological models emphasise the importance of considering other multiple levels of influence on behaviour, including in idual (e.g. self-efficacy, intentions, enjoyment) and social (e.g. social support, access to childcare) factors (psychosocial factors). However, not everyone has these physical activity-promoting psychosocial characteristics it remains unclear what contribution the environment makes to physical activity among these groups. This study aimed to examine the association between the perceived physical environment and self-reported leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas demonstrating different psychosocial characteristics. In 2007–8, 3765 women (18–45 years) randomly selected from low socioeconomic areas in Victoria, Australia, self-reported LTPA, and in idual, social and physical environmental factors hypothesised within a social-ecological framework to influence LTPA. Psychosocial and environment scores were created. Associations between environment scores and categories of LTPA (overall and stratified by thirds of perceived environment scores) were examined using generalised ordered logistic regression. Women with medium and high perceived environment scores had 20-38% and 44-70% greater odds respectively of achieving higher levels of LTPA than women with low environment scores. When stratified by thirds of psychosocial factor scores, these associations were largely attenuated and mostly became non-significant. However, women with the lowest psychosocial scores but medium or high environment scores had 76% and 58% higher odds respectively of achieving ≥120 minutes/week (vs. minutes/week) LTPA. Acknowledging the cross-sectional study design, the findings suggest that a physical environment perceived to be supportive of physical activity might help women with less favourable psychosocial characteristics achieve moderate amounts of LTPA (i.e. ≥120 minutes/week). This study provides further support for research and public health interventions to target perceptions of the physical environment as a key component of strategies to promote physical activity.

Does food store access modify associations between intrapersonal factors and fruit and vegetable consumption?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-01-2015

DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2014.287

Abstract: Existing theoretical frameworks suggest that healthy eating is facilitated by an in idual's ability, motivation and environmental opportunities. It is plausible, although largely untested, that the importance of factors related to ability and motivation differ under varied environmental conditions. This study aimed to determine whether the magnitude of associations between fruit and vegetable consumption and intrapersonal factors (ability and motivation) were modified by differences in access to stores selling these items (environmental opportunities). Cross-sectional analysis of 4335 women from socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods in the state of Victoria, Australia. Self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption was assessed against a number of ability- and motivation-related factors. To examine whether associations were modified by store access, interactions with access to supermarkets and greengrocers within 2 km of participants' households were tested. Of the two factors related to ability and seven factors related to motivation, almost all were associated with fruit and vegetable consumption. In general, associations were not modified by store access suggesting that these factors were not tempered by environmental opportunities. This study provides little support for the hypothesis that the importance of intra-personal factors to fruit and vegetable consumption is modified by food store access. Further research on this topic is required to inform behaviour change interventions.

Income differences in food consumption in the 1995 Australian National Nutrition Survey

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-09-2003

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.EJCN.1601670

Perceived quality and availability of fruit and vegetables are associated with perceptions of fruit and vegetable affordability among socio-economically disadvantaged women

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 10-01-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980011003417

Abstract: Perceptions that fruit and vegetables are expensive have been found to be associated with lower consumption of fruit and vegetables among disadvantaged women however, the determinants of these perceptions are relatively unknown. The purpose of the current paper is to examine whether perceived availability and quality of fruit and vegetables, and social support for healthy eating, are associated with perceptions of fruit and vegetable affordability among women residing in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Cross-sectional self-report survey. The study was conducted in Melbourne, Australia. An Australian s le of 4131 women, aged 18–45 years, residing in neighbourhoods ranked in the lowest Victorian tertile of relative disadvantage by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, an index that considers aspects of disadvantage such as residents’ income, education, motor vehicle access and employment. Results showed that irrespective of education, income and other key covariates, women who perceived poor availability and quality of fruit and vegetables in their local neighbourhood were more likely to perceive fruit and vegetables as expensive. Our results suggest that perceptions of fruit and vegetable affordability are not driven exclusively by lack of financial or knowledge-related resources, but also by women's psychological response and interpretation of their local nutrition environment.

Association of family environment with children's television viewing and with low level of physical activity

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-2005

DOI: 10.1038/OBY.2005.239

Abstract: This study examined associations between the family environment and children's television (TV) viewing and likelihood of being low-active. In 2001, children were recruited from 19 primary schools in Melbourne, Australia. Parents completed a questionnaire about their child's TV viewing and the family environment. Children also completed a questionnaire and wore an accelerometer for 8 days. Movement counts were used to identify low-active children (lowest quartile). Data were analyzed in May 2004. The s le consisted of 878 children (mean age = 11.5 +/- 0.6 yrs). Multiple logistic regression revealed that socioeconomic status [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 0.4 boys], frequency families watched TV together (AOR = 2.0 boys), mothers' (AOR = 1.8 boys AOR = 2.5 girls) and fathers' (AOR = 2.6 boys AOR = 2.8 girls) TV viewing, and rules prohibiting TV during mealtimes (AOR = 0.6 boys AOR = 0.6 girls) related to children watching TV >or=2 h/d. Variables associated with low-level physical activity included self-reported enjoyment of Internet use (AOR = 1.7 boys) and preference for watching TV (AOR = 2.3 girls), perception that mother uses computer a lot (AOR = 1.9 boys) and likes using the computer (AOR = 0.6 girls), fathers' reported computer/electronic games use (AOR = 1.7 girls), frequency families used computer together (AOR = 0.4 girls), rules that TV viewing must be supervised (AOR = 1.9 boys AOR = 0.6 girls), and having pay TV (AOR = 0.6 boys) and electronic games at home (AOR = 2.6 boys). These findings suggest that the relationships between the family environment and TV viewing and low-level activity are complex and that these behaviors are distinct.

Predictors of high-energy foods and beverages: a longitudinal study among socio-economically disadvantaged adolescents

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 05-11-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S136898001200482X

Variation in outcomes of the Melbourne Infant, Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program according to maternal education and age

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2013.10.021

Abstract: To assess the effectiveness of the Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program according to maternal education and age. A cluster-randomised controlled trial involving 542 mother/infant pairs from 62 existing first-time parent groups was conducted in 2008 in Melbourne, Australia. The intervention involved 6 × 2-hour dietitian-delivered sessions, DVD and written resources from infant age 4-15 months. Outcomes included infant diet (3 × 24 h diet recalls), physical activity (accelerometry), television viewing and body mass index. We tested for moderation by maternal education (with/without a University degree) and age (< 32 and ≥ 32 years). The trial was registered with the ISRCTN Register (identifier 81847050). Interaction effects with the treatment arm were observed for maternal education and age. The intervention effects on vegetable (positive effect) and sweet snack consumption (negative effect) were greater in children with higher educated mothers while intervention effects on water consumption (positive effect) were greater in infants with lower educated mothers. The intervention was also more effective in increasing both vegetable and water consumption in infants with mothers aged < 32 years. Child obesity prevention interventions may be differentially effective according to maternal education and age. Evidence of differential effects is important for informing more sensitively targeted/tailored approaches.

Awareness and compliance with the australian dietary guidelines: A descriptive study of Melbourne residents

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-1985

DOI: 10.1016/S0271-5317(85)80040-3

Does food planning mediate the association between living arrangements and fruit and vegetable consumption among women aged 40 years and older?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2010.02.009

Abstract: The objective of this paper was to investigate whether food planning strategies mediate the association between living arrangements and fruit and vegetable consumption amongst women aged 40 years and over. A community s le of 473 women aged 40 years and over from metropolitan Melbourne, Australia, provided survey data on their living arrangements, education, fruit and vegetable consumption and the amount of food planning they undertake. Fruit and vegetable consumption was significantly higher amongst women who lived with others compared to those living alone. Food planning was found to mediate the association between living arrangements and fruit consumption by 8% and vegetable consumption by 13%. This study provides evidence of a mediating effect of food planning on the relationship between living arrangements and fruit and vegetable consumption. With the ageing of the population increasing the potential for a rise in the number of single-occupant households, identifying ways of helping in iduals to plan their food purchasing and preparation may increase fruit and vegetable intake.

Australian adult consumers' beliefs about plant foods: a qualitative study

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Date: 12-2005

DOI: 10.1177/1090198105277323

Abstract: This exploratory qualitative study examined consumers’ perceived barriers and benefits of plant food (fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds) consumption and views on the promotion of these foods. Ten focus groups were conducted in Melbourne, Australia. Groups consisted of employees of various workplaces, community group members, university students, and inner-city residents. Health-related benefits predominated, particularly relating to the properties of plant foods (e.g., vitamins). Taste, variety, versatility, and environmental benefits were also considered important. The main barriers to eating plant foods were lack of knowledge and skills and length of preparation time. The poor quality of plant foods was also an issue for consumers. Awareness of the promotion of plant foods was generally high. Participants noted that promotions require a stronger practical emphasis with a focus on quick, easy-to-prepare foods and meals. These findings provide insight into effective ways to promote a higher consumption of plant foods.

EatSmart, a Web-Based and Mobile Healthy Eating Intervention for Disadvantaged People With Type 2 Diabetes: Protocol for a Pilot Mixed Methods Intervention Study (Preprint)

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 20-04-2020

DOI: 10.2196/PREPRINTS.19488

Abstract: eople of low socioeconomic position (SEP) are disproportionately affected by type 2 diabetes (T2D), partly due to unhealthy eating patterns that contribute to inadequate disease self-management and prognosis. Digital technologies have the potential to provide a suitable medium to facilitate diabetes education, support self-management, and address some of the barriers to healthy eating, such as lack of nutritional knowledge or shopping or cooking skills, in this target group. his study aims to test the feasibility, appeal, and potential effectiveness of EatSmart, a 12-week, evidence-based, theoretically grounded, fully automated web-based and mobile-delivered healthy eating behavior change program to help disadvantaged people living with T2D to eat healthily on a budget and improve diabetes self-management. atSmart is a mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative) pre-post design pilot study. Sixty socioeconomically disadvantaged people with T2D aged 18 to 75 years will be recruited. Participants will complete self-reported baseline assessments of their basic demographic and clinical data, dietary intake, dietary self-efficacy, and barriers to healthy eating. They will be provided with login access to the EatSmart web program, which includes six progressive skill-based modules covering healthy eating planning smart food budgeting and shopping time-saving meal strategies, healthy cooking methods, modifying recipes and a final reinforcement and summary module. Over the 3-month intervention, participants will also receive 3 text messages weekly, encouraging them to review goals, continue to engage with different components of the EatSmart web program, and eat healthily. Participants will undertake follow-up assessments directly following the intervention 3 months post baseline and again after a 6-month postintervention follow-up period (9 months post baseline). Feasibility will be evaluated using the number of participants recruited and retained and objective indicators of engagement with the website. Program appeal and potential effects on primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed via the same surveys used at baseline, with additional questions asking about experience with and perceptions of the program. In-depth qualitative interviews will also be conducted 6 months post intervention to provide deeper insight into experiences with EatSmart and a more comprehensive description of the program’s appeal. he EatSmart website has been developed, and all participants have viewed the modules as of May 2020. Results are expected to be submitted for publication in December 2020. his study will provide data to address the currently limited evidence regarding whether disadvantaged populations with T2D may benefit from digitally delivered behavior change programs that facilitate eating healthily on a budget. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12619001111167 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12619001111167 ERR1-10.2196/19488

Participants’ and Health Care Providers’ Insights Regarding a Web-Based and Mobile-Delivered Healthy Eating Program for Disadvantaged People With Type 2 Diabetes: Descriptive Qualitative Study

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 04-01-2023

DOI: 10.2196/37429

Abstract: Healthy eating is a key element of type 2 diabetes (T2D) self-management. Digital interventions offer new avenues to reach broad audiences to promote healthy eating behaviors. However, acceptance of these interventions by socioeconomically disadvantaged people (eg, those with lower levels of education and income or from ethnic minority groups) has not yet been fully evaluated. This study aimed to investigate the acceptability and usability of EatSmart, a 12-week web-based and mobile-delivered healthy eating behavior change support program, from the perspective of intervention participants living with T2D and health care providers (HCPs) involved in diabetes care. This study used a qualitative descriptive design. Overall, 60 disadvantaged adults with T2D, as determined by receipt of either a HealthCare Card or a pension or benefit as the main source of income, were recruited. Data from participants regarding their experiences with and perceptions of the program and longer-term maintenance of any behavior or attitudinal changes were collected through a web-based self-report survey with open-ended questions administered 12 weeks after baseline (54/60, 90%) and semistructured telephone interviews administered 36 weeks after baseline (16/60, 27%). Supplementary semistructured interviews with 6 HCPs involved in diabetes care (endocrinologists, accredited practicing dietitians, and diabetes nurse educators) were also conducted 36 weeks after baseline. These interviews aimed to understand HCPs’ views on successful and unsuccessful elements of EatSmart as a technology-delivered intervention any concerns or barriers regarding the use of these types of interventions and feedback from their interactions with patients on the intervention’s content, impact, or observed benefits. All data from the surveys and interviews were pooled and thematically analyzed. In total, 5 key themes emerged from the data: program impact on food-related behaviors and routines, satisfaction with the program, reasons for low engagement and suggestions for future programs, benefits and challenges of digital interventions, and cultural considerations. Results showed that EatSmart was acceptable to participants and contributed positively to improving food-related behaviors. Most participants (27/43, 63%) mentioned that they enjoyed their experience with EatSmart and expressed high satisfaction with its content and delivery. The educational and motivational content was considered the most useful part of the program. Benefits discussed by intervention participants included gaining health knowledge and skills, positive changes in their food purchasing and cooking, and eating greater quantities and varieties of fruits and vegetables. HCPs also described the intervention as beneficial and persuasive for the target audience and had specific suggestions for future tailoring of such programs. The findings suggested that this digitally delivered intervention with supportive educational modules and SMS text messages was generally appealing for both participants and HCPs. This intervention medium shows promise and could feasibly be rolled out on a broader scale to augment usual diabetes care. RR2-10.2196/19488

Socio-demographic characteristics of children experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage who meet physical activity and screen-time recommendations: The READI study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2011.10.019

Abstract: To identify socio-demographic characteristics of children from socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods who meet physical activity and screen recommendations. Children aged 5-12 years (n=373 45% boys) were recruited in 2007 from socioeconomically disadvantaged urban and rural areas of Victoria, Australia. Children's physical activity, height and weight were objectively measured. Mothers reported their highest level of education, and proxy-reported their child's usual screen-time. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) examined odds of meeting physical activity (>60 minutes/day) and screen (≤ 120 minutes/day) recommendations according to socio-demographic characteristics. Approximately 84% of children met physical activity and 43% met screen recommendations. Age was inversely associated with odds of meeting physical activity and screen recommendations, and overweight/obese status was associated with lower odds of meeting screen recommendations (boys: OR=0.39, 95%CI=0.16-0.95 girls: OR=0.47, 95%CI=0.26-0.83). Among boys, living in a rural area was positively associated with meeting screen recommendations (OR=3.08, 95%CI=1.42-6.64). Among girls, high levels of maternal education were positively associated with meeting screen recommendations (OR=2.76, 95%CI=1.33-5.75). Specific socio-demographic characteristics were associated with odds of meeting physical activity and screen recommendations. Identifying factors associated with such 'resilience' among this group may provide important learnings to inform future physical activity promotion initiatives.

Neighbourhood fast food outlets and obesity in children and adults: the CLAN Study

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 2008

DOI: 10.1080/17477160802113225

Abstract: We examined associations between density of and proximity to fast food outlets and body weight in a s le of children (137 aged 8-9 years and 243 aged 13-15 years) and their parents (322 fathers and 362 mothers). Children's measured and parents' self-reported heights and weights were used to calculate body mass index (BMI). Locations of major fast food outlets were geocoded. Bivariate linear regression analyses examined associations between the presence of any fast food outlet within a 2 km buffer around participants' homes, fast food outlet density within the 2 km buffer, and distance to the nearest outlet and BMI. Each independent variable was also entered into separate bivariate logistic regression analyses to predict the odds of being overweight or obese. Among older children, those with at least one outlet within 2 km had lower BMI z-scores. The further that fathers lived from an outlet, the higher their BMI. Among 13-15-year-old girls and their fathers, the likelihood of overweight/obesity was reduced by 80% and 50%, respectively, if they had at least one fast food outlet within 2 km of their home. Among older girls, the likelihood of being overweight/obese was reduced by 14% with each additional outlet within 2 km. Fathers' odds of being overweight/obese increased by 13% for each additional kilometre to the nearest outlet. While consumption of fast food has been shown to be associated with obesity, this study provides little support for the concept that exposure to fast food outlets in the local neighbourhood increases risk of obesity.

Neighborhood Road Environments and Physical Activity Among Youth: The CLAN Study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-04-2008

DOI: 10.1007/S11524-008-9284-9

Associations between family circumstance and weight status of Australian children

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 2007

DOI: 10.1080/17477160601148554

Abstract: To examine associations between weight status and multiple indicators of family circumstance in Australian elementary school children. Data were combined from the 2001 Children's Leisure Activities Study (CLAS Study) and 2002/3 Health, Eating and Play Study (HEAP Study), involving 2520 children in Grades Prep (mean age 6 years) and 5-6 (mean age 11 years) in Melbourne, Australia. Children's body mass index (BMI) was calculated from measured height and weight. Weight status (non-overweight or overweight) was determined according to International Obesity Taskforce cut-off points and BMI was transformed to z-scores based on the 2000 US growth chart data. Parents reported family circumstance (number of parents in the home, marital status, presence of siblings, parental education, parental employment status, parental work hours [HEAP Study only]) and parental BMI. Regression analyses were conducted for the s le overall and separately for young girls, young boys, older girls and older boys. Children in single-parent homes, those without siblings, and those with less educated mothers and fathers tended to have higher z-BMIs (p=0.002, p=0.003, p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively) and were more likely to be overweight (p=0.003, p<0.001, p<0.001 and p=0.02, respectively). Associations were stronger for older children. Parental employment and work hours were not consistently associated with child weight status. The multivariable models did not demonstrate a cumulative explanatory effect (R(2)=0.02), except when maternal BMI was included (R(2)=0.07). In idual measures of family circumstance were differentially associated with child weight status and appeared to be largely independent of other measures of family circumstance. Childhood overweight interventions may need to be tailored based on the age, gender, maternal BMI and family circumstances of the target group.

Family and home correlates of television viewing in 12-13 year old adolescents: the Nepean Study.

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2006

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-3-24

Is neighbourhood obesogenicity associated with body mass index in women? Application of an obesogenicity index in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2014.07.012

Abstract: An aggregate index is potentially useful to represent neighbourhood obesogenicity. We created a conceptually-based obesogenicity index and examined its association with body mass index (BMI) among 3786 women (age 18-45y) in socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Victoria, Australia. The index included 3 items from each of 3 domains: food resources (supermarkets, green grocers, fast food restaurants), recreational activity resources (gyms, pools, park space), and walkability (4+ leg intersections, neighbourhood walking environment, neighbourhood safety), with a possible range from 0 to 18 reflecting 0-2 for each of the 9 items. Using generalised estimating equations, neighbourhood obesogenicity was not associated with BMI in the overall s le. However, stratified analyses revealed generally positive associations with BMI in urban areas and inverse associations in rural areas (interaction p=0.02). These analyses are a first step towards combining neighbourhood characteristics into an aggregate obesogenicity index that is transparent enough to be adopted elsewhere and to allow examination of the relevance of its specific components in different settings.

The Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (INFANT) an early intervention to prevent childhood obesity: Cluster-randomised controlled trial

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 31-03-2008

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-8-103

Abstract: Multiple factors combine to support a compelling case for interventions that target the development of obesity-promoting behaviours (poor diet, low physical activity and high sedentary behaviour) from their inception. These factors include the rapidly increasing prevalence of fatness throughout childhood, the instigation of obesity-promoting behaviours in infancy, and the tracking of these behaviours from childhood through to adolescence and adulthood. The Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (INFANT) aims to determine the effectiveness of an early childhood obesity prevention intervention delivered to first-time parents. The intervention, conducted with parents over the infant's first 18 months of life, will use existing social networks (first-time parent's groups) and an anticipatory guidance framework focusing on parenting skills which support the development of positive diet and physical activity behaviours, and reduced sedentary behaviours in infancy. This cluster-randomised controlled trial, with first-time parent groups as the unit of randomisation, will be conducted with a s le of 600 first-time parents and their newborn children who attend the first-time parents' group at Maternal and Child Health Centres. Using a two-stage s ling process, local government areas in Victoria, Australia will be randomly selected at the first stage. At the second stage, a proportional s le of first-time parent groups within selected local government areas will be randomly selected and invited to participate. Informed consent will be obtained and groups will then be randomly allocated to the intervention or control group. The early years hold promise as a time in which obesity prevention may be most effective. To our knowledge this will be the first randomised trial internationally to demonstrate whether an early health promotion program delivered to first-time parents in their existing social groups promotes healthy eating, physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviours. If proven to be effective, INFANT may protect children from the development of obesity and its associated social and economic costs. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN81847050

A longitudinal study of the family environment and youth physical activity

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.4278/AJHP.090303-QUAN-93

Abstract: Although the family environment is a potentially important influence on children's physical activity (PA), prospective data investigating these associations are lacking. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal relationship between the family environment and PA among youth. A 5-year prospective cohort study. Nineteen randomly selected public schools in Melbourne, Australia. Families of 5- to 6-year-old (n = 190) and 10- to 12-year-old (n = 350) children. In 2001, parents reported their participation in PA, family-based PA, and support and reinforcement for their child's PA. In 2001, 2004, and 2006, moderate to vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) was assessed among youth using accelerometers. Weekend and “critical window” (after school until 6:00 P.M.) MVPA were examined because we hypothesized that the family environment would most likely influence these behaviors. Generalized estimating equations predicted average change in MVPA over 5 years from baseline family environment factors. Maternal role modeling was positively associated with boys' critical window and weekend (younger boys) MVPA. Paternal reinforcement of PA was positively associated with critical window and weekend MVPA among all boys, and paternal direct support was positively associated with weekend MVPA (older boys). Among girls, maternal coparticipation in PA predicted critical window MVPA, and sibling coparticipation in PA was directly associated with weekend MVPA (younger girls). Longitudinal relationships, although weak in magnitude, were observed between the family environment and MVPA among youth. Interventions promoting maternal role modeling, paternal reinforcement of and support for PA, and maternal and sibling coparticipation in PA with youth are warranted. (Am J Health Promot 2011 [3]:159–167.)

Mothers’ perceptions of the influences on their child feeding practices – A qualitative study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2016.06.031

Abstract: Children's diets are important determinants of their health, but typically do not meet recommendations. Parents' feeding practices, such as pressure or restriction, are important influences on child diets, but reasons why parents use particular feeding practices, and malleability of such practices, are not well understood. This qualitative study aimed to explore mothers' perceptions of influences on their feeding practices, and assess whether an intervention promoting recommended feeding practices was perceived as influential. The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program was a cluster-randomised controlled trial involving 542 families aiming to improve child diets. Following the trial, when children were two years old, 81 intervention arm mothers were invited to participate in qualitative interviews, and 26 accepted (32%). Thematic analysis of interview transcripts used a tabular thematic framework. Eight major themes were identified regarding perceived influences on child feeding practices. Broadly these encompassed: practical considerations, family setting, formal information sources, parents' own upbringing, learning from friends and family, learning from child and experiences, and parents' beliefs about food and feeding. Additionally, the Melbourne InFANT Program was perceived by most respondents as influential. In particular, many mothers reported being previously unaware of some recommended feeding practices, and that learning and adopting those practices made child feeding easier. These findings suggest that a variety of influences impact mothers' child feeding practices. Health practitioners should consider these factors in providing feeding advice to parents, and researchers should consider these factors in planning interventions.

Mediators of improved child diet quality following a health promotion intervention: The Melbourne InFANT Program

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 04-11-2014

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-014-0137-5

Economic evaluation of price discounts and skill-building strategies on purchase and consumption of healthy food and beverages: The SHELf randomized controlled trial

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2016.04.015

Abstract: Pricing strategies are a promising approach for promoting healthier dietary choices. However, robust evidence of the cost-effectiveness of pricing manipulations on dietary behaviour is limited. We aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of a 20% price reduction on fruits and vegetables and a combined skills-based behaviour change and price reduction intervention. Cost-effectiveness analysis from a societal perspective was undertaken for the randomized controlled trial Supermarket Healthy Eating for Life (SHELf). Female shoppers in Melbourne, Australia were randomized to: (1) skill-building (n = 160) (2) price reductions (n = 161) (3) combined skill-building and price reduction (n = 161) or (4) control group (n = 161). The intervention was implemented for three months followed by a six month follow-up. Costs were measured in 2012 Australian dollars. Fruit and vegetable purchasing and consumption were measured in grams/week. At three months, compared to control participants, price reduction participants increased vegetable purchases by 233 g/week (95% CI 4 to 462, p = 0.046) and fruit purchases by 364 g/week (95% CI 95 to 633, p = 0.008). Participants in the combined group purchased 280 g/week more fruits (95% CI 27 to 533, p = 0.03) than participants in the control group. Increases were not maintained six-month post intervention. No effect was noticed in the skill-building group. Compared to the control group, the price reduction intervention cost an additional A$2.3 per increased serving of vegetables purchased per week or an additional A$3 per increased serving of fruit purchased per week. The combined intervention cost an additional A$12 per increased serving of fruit purchased per week compared to the control group. A 20% discount on fruits and vegetables was effective in promoting overall fruit and vegetable purchases during the period the discount was active and may be cost-effective. The price discount program gave better value for money than the combined price reduction and skill-building intervention. The SHELf trial is registered with Current Controlled Trials Registration ISRCTN39432901.

The impact of interventions to prevent obesity or improve obesity related behaviours in children (0–5 years) from socioeconomically disadvantaged and/or indigenous families: a systematic review

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-2014

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-779

Behavior and weight correlates of weight-control efforts in Australian women living in disadvantage: The READI study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-10-52

Socio-economic disparities in Australian adolescents’ eating behaviours

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 23-10-2013

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980013002784

Abstract: To assess the association between socio-economic position (SEP) and poor eating behaviours in a large representative s le of Australian secondary-school students. Cross-sectional survey of students’ vegetable, fruit, sugar-sweetened beverage and fast-food consumption assessed using validated instruments and collected via a web-based self-report format. Secondary schools across all Australian states and territories. Secondary-school students ( n 12 188 response rate: 54 %) aged 12–17 years participating in the 2009–10 National Secondary Students’ Diet and Activity (NaSSDA) survey. Overall, 25 % of students reported consuming ≤1 serving of vegetables/d and 29 % reported eating ≤1 serving of fruit/d. Fourteen per cent of students reported drinking at least 1–2 cups of sugar-sweetened beverages/d while 9 % reported eating fast food ≥3 times/week. After adjusting for other demographic factors, students of lower-SEP areas were more likely to report low intake of vegetables ( F (4, 231) = 3·61, P = 0·007) and high frequency of consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages ( F (4, 231) = 8·41, P 0·001) and fast food ( F (4, 231) = 4·59, P = 0·001) compared with students of high-SEP neighbourhoods. A positive SEP association was found for fruit consumption among female students only ( F (4, 231) = 4·20, P = 0·003). Those from lower-SEP areas were also more likely to engage in multiple poor eating behaviours ( F (4, 231)=5·80, P 0·001). Results suggest that socio-economic disparities in Australian adolescents’ eating behaviours do exist, with students residing in lower-SEP neighbourhoods faring less well than those from high-SEP neighbourhoods. Reducing social inequalities in eating behaviours among young people should be a key consideration of future preventive strategies.

Patterning of neighbourhood food outlets and longitudinal associations with children's eating behaviours.

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2018.03.003

Abstract: This study examined cross-sectional and prospective associations between typologies of neighbourhood food environment and dietary patterns among 10-12 year-old children. Baseline data were collected in 2003 and follow-up data in 2006 from children in Melbourne or Geelong. Parents completed a food frequency questionnaire at both time points. 'Healthful' and 'energy-dense' dietary pattern scores were computed. A Geographic Information System was used to determine the presence or absence of food outlets (cafés/restaurant fast food supermarkets/grocery stores convenience store greengrocer and butcher, seafood or poultry retailer) within an 800 m road network buffer of home. Three typologies were identified: 1-variety of food outlets, including those selling core/fresh foods (n = 96) 2-café/restaurant and convenience (n = 160) 3-few types of outlets (n = 208). Latent class analysis was used to identify underlying unobservable typologies of neighbourhood food outlet availability. Linear mixed models were fitted to determine cross-sectional (n = 439) and longitudinal (n = 173) associations between the three identified neighbourhood typologies and each (log-transformed) dietary pattern, accounting for clustering within families and schools. There was little evidence of cross-sectional associations. The longitudinal analyses showed that compared to those with a variety of food outlets, those with few types had 25% lower scores for the healthful dietary pattern (p < 0.05) three years later. For optimal dietary patterns, availability of a variety of food outlets close to home, particularly those where core/fresh foods are available, may be important.

Does the availability of snack foods in supermarkets vary internationally?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-10-56

Tracking of dietary intakes in early childhood: the Melbourne InFANT Program

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 16-01-2013

DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2012.218

Influences on Preschool Children's Physical Activity

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1097/FCH.0B013E31820590D6

Associations between the home food environment and obesity-promoting eating behaviors in adolescence

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-2007

DOI: 10.1038/OBY.2007.553

Abstract: This study examines relationships between multiple aspects of the home food environment and obesity-promoting characteristics of 12- to 13-year-old adolescents' diets, specifically frequency of consumption of high-energy fluids, sweet snacks, savory snacks, and take-out foods. This was a cross-sectional study including 347 adolescents 12 to 13 years of age and their parents. Data were collected via self-completed surveys. The adolescents' diets were assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire derived from existing age-appropriate National Nutrition Survey data. An extensive range of domains within the home food environment were assessed. Bivariate linear regression analyses were run split by gender. Forced entry multiple linear regression analyses (adjusting for all variables significant in bivariate analyses as well as for maternal education) were also performed, stratified by the sex of the child. The influence of mothers, either as models for eating behaviors or as the providers of food, was pervasive. Mothers' intake of high-energy fluids (p = 0.003), sweet snacks (p = 0.010), savory snacks (p = 0.008), and take-out food (p = 0.007) was positively associated with boys' intake of all these foods. In addition, mothers' intake of high-energy fluids was positively associated with daughters' consumption of these drinks (p = 0.025). Furthermore, availability of unhealthy foods at home was positively associated with girls' sweet snack (p = 0.001), girls' savory snack (p < 0.001), boys' savory snack (p = 0.002), and, in the bivariate analyses, girls' high-energy fluid consumption (p = 0.002). This study of home food environment influences on adolescent diet highlights the pervasive influence of mothers in determining adolescents' obesity-promoting eating, providing direction for obesity prevention strategies and future research.

The REVAMP natural experiment study: The impact of a play-scape installation on park visitation and park-based physical activity

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-01-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-017-0625-5

Preschool Children and Physical Activity

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2008.02.001

Abstract: Several reviews have summarized the research on correlates of older children's and adolescents' physical activity behaviors, but none have been published on preschool children. Over the past 27 years, a number of studies have investigated the correlates of preschool children's physical activity behaviors. It is timely and necessary to review the extant literature in this area. This paper reviews articles investigating correlates of preschool children's physical activity behaviors published in peer-reviewed journals between 1980 and March 2007. A literature search was conducted to identify studies that investigated correlates of preschool children's physical activity. Data were collected and analyzed in 2007. Twenty-four articles were identified that met the inclusion criteria. From those articles, 39 variables were identified across five domains. Results showed that boys were more active than girls, that children with active parents tended to be more active, and that children who spent more time outdoors were more active than children who spent less time outdoors. Age and BMI were consistently shown to have no association with preschool children's physical activity. Other variables produced largely inconclusive results. The influences on the physical activity behaviors of preschool children are multidimensional. Further research is required to enhance an understanding of these influences.

Longitudinal examination of the family food environment and weight status among children

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.3109/17477160902846211

Abstract: To examine whether aspects of the family food environment were associated with body mass index (BMI) z-score and weight status in children, cross-sectionally and prospectively over 3 years. Four aspects of the family food environment (breakfast eating patterns, food consumption while watching television, parental provision of energy-dense foods and child consumption of energy-dense food at home and away from home) were assessed with a questionnaire completed by parents of 161 children aged 5-6 years and 132 children aged 10-12 years in Melbourne, Australia in 2002/03. In 2002/03 and 2006, children's BMI z-score and weight status (non-overweight or overweight) was calculated from measured height and weight. At baseline, 19% of younger and 21% of older children were overweight. Three years later, a greater proportion of younger (now aged 8-9 years) compared with older (aged 13-15 years) children were classified as overweight (28% versus 18%). Few of the family food environment variables were associated with children's BMI z-score and weight status cross-sectionally and longitudinally. However, among older children, more frequent dinner consumption while watching television was associated with a higher BMI z-score longitudinally (B=0.3, 95% CI=0.0, 0.6), less frequent breakfast consumption was associated with higher odds of overweight longitudinally (OR=2.2, 95% CI=1.1-4.7), and more frequent fast food consumption at home was associated with higher odds of overweight cross-sectionally (OR=3.1, 95% CI=1.4-7.0). This study found few significant associations between aspects of the family food environment and BMI z-score or weight status in a s le of Australian children.

THE VICTORIAN NUTRITION SURVEY: A PROFILE OF THE ENERGY, MACRONUTRIENT AND SODIUM INTAKES OF THE POPULATION

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-02-2010

DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.1988.TB00571.X

Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee causes significant morbidity and current medical treatment is limited to symptom relief, while therapies able to slow structural damage remain elusive. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate (CS), alone or in combination, as well as celecoxib and placebo on progressive loss of joint space width (JSW) in patients with knee OA. A 24-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, conducted at 9 sites in the United States as part of the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), enrolled 572 patients with knee OA who satisfied radiographic criteria (Kellgren/Lawrence [K/L] grade 2 or grade 3 changes and JSW of at least 2 mm at baseline). Patients with primarily lateral compartment narrowing at any time point were excluded. Patients who had been randomized to 1 of the 5 groups in the GAIT continued to receive glucosamine 500 mg 3 times daily, CS 400 mg 3 times daily, the combination of glucosamine and CS, celecoxib 200 mg daily, or placebo over 24 months. The minimum medial tibiofemoral JSW was measured at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months. The primary outcome measure was the mean change in JSW from baseline. The mean JSW loss at 2 years in knees with OA in the placebo group, adjusted for design and clinical factors, was 0.166 mm. No statistically significant difference in mean JSW loss was observed in any treatment group compared with the placebo group. Treatment effects on K/L grade 2 knees, but not on K/L grade 3 knees, showed a trend toward improvement relative to the placebo group. The power of the study was diminished by the limited s le size, variance of JSW measurement, and a smaller than expected loss in JSW. At 2 years, no treatment achieved a predefined threshold of clinically important difference in JSW loss as compared with placebo. However, knees with K/L grade 2 radiographic OA appeared to have the greatest potential for modification by these treatments.

Is maternal nutrition knowledge more strongly associated with the diets of mothers or their school-aged children?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 10-01-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980011003430

Abstract: Maternal nutrition knowledge has frequently been identified as an important target for nutrition promotion interventions. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether maternal nutrition knowledge is more strongly associated with the mother's own diet or that of her child. Cross-sectional multivariate linear regression with interactions analyses of survey data. Socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Victoria, Australia. Five hundred and twenty-three mothers and their children who participated in the Resilience for Eating and Physical Activity Despite Inequality (READI) study, a cross-sectional survey study conducted in 2009 among women and their children residing in socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. In adjusted models, for three (vegetable, chocolate/lollies and soft drink consumption) out of the seven dietary outcomes assessed, there was a significant association between maternal nutrition knowledge and maternal diet, whereas for the children's diets none of the seven outcomes were associated with maternal nutrition knowledge. Statistical comparison of regression coefficients showed no difference between the maternal nutrition knowledge–maternal diet association and the maternal nutrition knowledge–child diet association. Promoting maternal nutrition knowledge may represent an important avenue for improving diet in mothers from socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods, but more information is needed on how and when this knowledge is translated to benefits for their children's diet.

A cluster-randomized controlled trial to reduce sedentary behavior and promote physical activity and health of 8-9 year olds: The Transform-Us! Study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 04-10-2011

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-11-759

The effect of an early childhood obesity intervention on father's obesity risk behaviors: the Melbourne InFANT Program

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-11-18

How and why does discretionary food consumption change when we promote fruit and vegetables? Results from the ShopSmart randomised controlled trial

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 10-2019

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980019002830

Abstract: The present study aimed to identify whether discretionary food consumption declined in an intervention focused primarily on promoting fruit and vegetable consumption. We also aimed to identify potential mediators explaining intervention effects on discretionary food consumption. Secondary analysis of data from the ShopSmart study, a randomised controlled trial involving a 6-month intervention promoting fruit and vegetable consumption. Linear regression models examined intervention effects on discretionary food consumption at intervention completion (T2). A half-longitudinal mediator analyses was performed to examine the potential mediating effect of personal and environmental factors on the association between the intervention effects and discretionary food consumption. Indirect (mediated) effects were tested by the product of coefficients method with bootstrapped se using Andrew Hayes’ PROCESS macro for SPSS. Women were recruited via the Coles FlyBuys loyalty card database in socio-economically disadvantaged suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. Analyses included 225 women (116 intervention and 109 control). Compared with controls, intervention participants consumed fewer discretionary foods at T2, after adjusting for key confounders ( B = −0·194, 95 % CI −0·378, −0·010 servings/d P = 0·039). While some mediators were associated with the outcome (taste, outcome expectancies, self-efficacy, time constraints), there was no evidence that they mediated intervention effects. The study demonstrated that a behavioural intervention promoting fruit and vegetable consumption among socio-economically disadvantaged participants was effective in reducing discretionary food intake. Although specific mediators were not identified, researchers should continue searching for mechanisms by which interventions have an effect to guide future programme design.

The effects of television advertisements for junk food versus nutritious food on children's food attitudes and preferences

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2007.05.011

Abstract: Television (TV) food advertising has attracted criticism for its potential role in promoting unhealthy dietary practices among children. Content analyses indicate junk food advertising is prevalent on Australian children's TV healthy eating is rarely promoted. This paper presents (a) a cross-sectional survey examining associations between children's regular TV viewing habits and their food-related attitudes and behaviour and (b) an experiment assessing the impact of varying combinations of TV advertisements (ads) for unhealthy and healthy foods on children's dietary knowledge, attitudes and intentions. The experimental conditions simulated possible models for regulating food ads on children's TV. Participants were 919 grade five and six students from schools in Melbourne, Australia. The survey showed that heavier TV use and more frequent commercial TV viewing were independently associated with more positive attitudes toward junk food heavier TV use was also independently associated with higher reported junk food consumption. The experiment found that ads for nutritious foods promote selected positive attitudes and beliefs concerning these foods. Findings are discussed in light of methodological issues in media effects research and their implications for policy and practice. It is concluded that changing the food advertising environment on children's TV to one where nutritious foods are promoted and junk foods are relatively unrepresented would help to normalize and reinforce healthy eating.

Home environment predictors of vegetable and fruit intakes among Australian children aged 18 months

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2019.04.009

Abstract: Suboptimal vegetable and fruit consumption by young children is common. Identifying predictors of vegetable and fruit intakes is important for informing strategies to promote sufficient intakes of these foods from early life. The aim of the present study was to examine predictors of toddlers' vegetable and fruit intakes at age 18 months. This study involved secondary analysis of data from 361 child-mother dyads participating in the Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial in 2008-2010 at child ages four, nine and 18 months. Children's vegetable and fruit intakes were assessed at age 18 months using multiple 24-h dietary recalls. Data on potential predictor measures were collected via parent-completed questionnaires when children were four or nine months of age. Bivariate and multivariable linear regression models were used to test associations between children's average daily vegetable or fruit intake and potential predictors controlling for treatment arm and clustering by parent group. Multivariable models also controlled for covariates and potential confounders. Home availability of vegetables at age nine months was found to predict children's vegetable intake at age 18 months and remained significant (β = 20.19, 95% CI:7.23, 33.15, p = 0.003) in the multivariable model. Children's average daily fruit intake at age 18 months was predicted by maternal education at child age four months and the availability of fruits in their home at child age nine months. Maternal education remained significant (β = 30.83, 95% CI:12.17, 49.48, p = 0.002) in the multivariable model. Strategies to promote adequate vegetable and fruit intakes among young children should address known barriers to the availability of vegetables and fruits in the home from early in life. Additionally, messages encouraging fruit consumption may need to be tailored to mothers with lower levels of education.

Longitudinal levels and bouts of objectively measured sedentary time among young Australian children in the HAPPY study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2015.01.009

Development of an Evidence-Based mHealth Weight Management Program Using a Formative Research Process

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 11-07-2014

DOI: 10.2196/MHEALTH.2850

Mismatch between perceived and objective measures of physical activity environments

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2008.05.001

Abstract: This study investigated the correspondence between measures of physical activity facilities obtained through self-report and objective audits and identified the socio-demographic, cognitive and behavioral characteristics of those who perceive their physical activity environment to be less supportive than objective measures indicate. Self-report surveys were completed by 1540 women recruited from 45 neighborhoods in Melbourne, Australia. Women reported perceived access to physical activity facilities within 2 km from home, and also socio-demographic, cognitive and behavioral factors. Objective data on physical activity facilities within a 2 km pedestrian catchment area around women's homes were sourced. There was relatively poor agreement between measures of access to physical activity facilities obtained via self-report and objective assessment. Mismatch between perceived and objectively-assessed environments was more common amongst younger and older women, and women of low income, with low self-efficacy for physical activity, who were less active, who reported using fewer facilities and who had lived in the neighborhood for less than 2 years. Future studies of environmental determinants of physical activity should consider incorporating objective indices of access to facilities, or accounting for the systematic bias that may result from relying on self-report perceptions as an indicator of the actual physical activity environment.

Understanding determinants of nutrition, physical activity and quality of life among older adults: the Wellbeing, Eating and Exercise for a Long Life (WELL) study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1186/1477-7525-10-109

Family food involvement and frequency of family dinner meals among Australian children aged 10–12years. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations with dietary patterns

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2013.12.021

Abstract: Involvement in meal preparation and eating meals with the family are associated with better dietary patterns in adolescents, however little research has included older children or longitudinal study designs. This 3-year longitudinal study examines cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between family food involvement, family dinner meal frequency and dietary patterns during late childhood. Questionnaires were completed by parents of 188 children from Greater Melbourne, Australia at baseline in 2002 (mean age=11.25years) and at follow-up in 2006 (mean age=14.16years). Principal components analysis (PCA) was used to identify dietary patterns. Factor analysis (FA) was used to determine the principal factors from six indicators of family food involvement. Multiple linear regression models were used to predict the dietary patterns of children and adolescents at baseline and at follow-up, 3years later, from baseline indicators of family food involvement and frequency of family dinner meals. PCA revealed two dietary patterns, labeled a healthful pattern and an energy-dense pattern. FA revealed one factor for family food involvement. Cross-sectionally among boys, family food involvement score (β=0.55, 95% CI: 0.02, 1.07) and eating family dinner meals daily (β=1.11, 95% CI: 0.27, 1.96) during late childhood were positively associated with the healthful pattern. Eating family dinner meals daily was inversely associated with the energy-dense pattern, cross-sectionally among boys (β=-0.56, 95% CI: -1.06, -0.06). No significant cross-sectional associations were found among girls and no significant longitudinal associations were found for either gender. Involvement in family food and eating dinner with the family during late childhood may have a positive influence on dietary patterns of boys. No evidence was found to suggest the effects on dietary patterns persist into adolescence.

Correlates of pregnant women's gestational weight gain knowledge

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.MIDW.2016.08.011

Abstract: to investigate correlates of pregnant women's gestational weight gain (GWG) knowledge commensurate with GWG guidelines. cross sectional quantitative study. an Australian tertiary level maternity hospital. pregnant women (n=1032) following their first antenatal visit. survey to assess GWG knowledge and a range of potential correlates of knowledge including socio-economic characteristics, pregnancy characteristics (parity, gestation, pre-pregnancy BMI) and GWG information procurement and GWG attitudinal variables. participants (n=366 35.4% response) averaged 32.5 years of age with 33% speaking a language other than English. One third of women reported GWG knowledge consistent with guidelines. Women overweight prior to pregnancy were less likely to underestimate appropriate GWG (RRR 0.23, 95% CI=0.09-0.59). Conversely, women in the overweight (RRR 8.80, 95% CI=4.02-19.25) and obese (RRR 19.62, 95% CI=8.03-48.00) categories were more likely to overestimate GWG recommendations, while tertiary educated women were less likely to overestimate GWG (RRR 0.28, 95% CI=0.10-0.79). No associations were found between GWG knowledge and pregnancy, GWG information source or attitudinal variables. the findings highlight women's lack of GWG knowledge and the role of pre-pregnancy body mass index and women's education as correlates of GWG knowledge. Women susceptible to poor GWG knowledge should be a priority target for in idual and community-based education.

Associations of diet quality with health-related quality of life in older Australian men and women

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.EXGER.2015.01.047

Abstract: This study investigated associations between diet quality measures and quality of life two years later. Adults 55-65 years participating in the Wellbeing, Eating and Exercise for a Long Life (WELL) study in Victoria, Australia (n = 1150 men and n = 1307 women) completed a postal survey including a 111-item food frequency questionnaire in 2010. Diet quality in 2010 was assessed via the dietary guideline index (DGI), recommended food score (RFS) and Mediterranean diet score (MDS). The RAND 36-item survey assessed health-related quality of life in 2012. Associations were assessed using logistic regression adjusted for covariates. In men, DGI and RFS were associated with better reported energy (OR = 1.79, CI: 1.25, 2.55 and OR = 1.56, CI: 1.11, 2.19 respectively), and DGI was additionally associated with better general health (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.20), and overall mental component summary scale (OR = 1.51, CI: 1.07, 2.15) in the fully adjusted model. In women, associations between two indices of diet quality (DGI, RFS) physical function (OR = 1.66, CI: 1.19, 2.31 and OR = 1.70, CI: 1.21, 2.37 respectively) and general health (OR = 1.83, CI: 1.32, 2.54 and OR = 1.54, CI: 1.11, 2.14 respectively) were observed. DGI was also associated with overall physical component summary score (OR = 1.56, CI: 1.12, 2.17). Additional associations between emotional wellbeing and DGI (OR = 1.40, CI: 1.01, 1.93) and RFS (OR = 1.44, CI: 1.04, 1.99), and MDS and energy (OR = 1.53, CI: 1.11, 2.10) were observed in the fully adjusted model, in women only. Older adults with better quality diets report better health-related quality of life, with additional associations with emotional wellbeing observed in women.

Reducing sedentary behaviour and increasing physical activity among 10-year-old children: overview and process evaluation of the 'Switch-Play' intervention

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 03-2005

DOI: 10.1093/HEAPRO/DAH502

Abstract: Overweight and obesity has doubled among children in Australia. There is an urgent need to develop primary prevention strategies to prevent current and future unhealthy weight gain. The aims of this paper are to describe a randomized controlled trial ('Switch-Play') developed to prevent unhealthy weight gain among 10-year-old children and to report the findings of the process evaluation. Children from three government primary schools were randomized by class to one of four conditions: a behavioural modification group (BM n = 69) a fundamental motor skills group (FMS n = 73) a combined BM and FMS group (n = 90) or a control (usual classroom lessons) group (n = 61). Children in the BM group participated in 19 sessions that encouraged them to reduce screen-based behaviours, and identified physical activity alternatives. The FMS group participated in 19 lessons that focused on mastery of six skills: run, throw, dodge, strike, vertical jump and kick. The combined group participated in all the BM and FMS activities. The intervention specialist teacher reported that the children showed high enjoyment and engagement (88% lessons attended) in most aspects of the programme. At-home tasks were completed by 57-62% of the children, and 92% completed the in-class tasks. Two-thirds of the children in the BM group participated in the behavioural contracting to switch off the TV. Most of the children reported high enjoyment of the programmes, and only a small proportion (7-17%) reported difficulties in switching off their nominated TV shows. More than half the children reported reducing their TV viewing however, less than half reported increasing their physical activity. It was found that most aspects of the intervention arms of the programme were successfully delivered to the majority of children participating in 'Switch-Play' that the programmes were delivered as intended and that the programmes were favourably evaluated by participating children and their parents.

Do features of public open spaces vary between urban and rural areas?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2012.11.016

Abstract: Parks are an important setting for physical activity and specific park features have been shown to be associated with park visitation and physical activity. Most park-based research has been conducted in urban settings with few studies examining rural parks. This study examined differences in features of parks in urban compared with rural areas. In 2009/10 a tool was developed to audit 433 urban and 195 rural parks located in disadvantaged areas of Victoria, Australia. Features assessed included: access lighting/safety aesthetics amenities paths outdoor courts/ovals informal play spaces and playgrounds (number, ersity, age appropriateness and safety of play equipment). Rural parks scored higher for aesthetics compared with urban parks (5.08 vs 4.44). Urban parks scored higher for access (4.64 vs 3.89), lighting/safety (2.01 vs 1.76), and ersity of play equipment (7.37 vs 6.24), and were more likely to have paths suitable for walking/cycling (58.8% vs 40.9%) and play equipment for older children (68.2% vs 17.1%). Although the findings cannot be generalized to all urban and rural parks, the results may be used to inform advocacy for park development in rural areas to create parks that are more supportive of physical activity for children and adults.

Assessing Volume of Accelerometry Data for Reliability in Preschool Children

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Date: 12-2012

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0B013E3182661478

Education and lifestyle predict change in dietary patterns and diet quality of adults 55 years and over

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 07-11-2019

DOI: 10.1186/S12937-019-0495-6

Abstract: Diet is a key risk factor for chronic disease, and an increasing concern among older adults. We aim to examine the changes in dietary patterns using principal component analysis and a diet quality index among older adults and examine the predictors of dietary change over a 4 year period. Data was obtained via a postal survey in a prospective cohort, the Wellbeing Eating and Exercise for a Long Life (WELL) study. Australian adults aged 55 years and over ( n = 1005 men and n = 1106 women) completed a food frequency at three time points and provided self-reported personal characteristics. Principal component analysis was used to assess dietary patterns and diet quality was assessed using the 2013 Revised Dietary Guideline Index. The relationships between predictors and change in dietary patterns were assessed by multiple linear regression. Two dietary patterns were consistently identified in men and women at three time points over 4 years. One was characterised by vegetables, fruit and white meat, and the other was characterised by red and processed meat and processed foods. Reduced consumption of key food groups within the principal component analysis-determined dietary patterns was observed. An increase in diet quality over 4 years was observed in men only. Reported higher education levels and favourable lifestyle characteristics, including not smoking and physical activity, at baseline predicted an increase in healthier dietary patterns over 4 years. There was stability in the main dietary patterns identified over time, however participants reported an overall decrease in the frequency of consumption of key food groups. Compliance with the Australian Dietary Guidelines remained poor and therefore targeting this population in nutritional initiatives is important. Design of nutrition promotion for older adults need to consider those with lower socioeconomic status, as having a lower level of education was a predictor of poorer dietary patterns. It is important to consider how nutrition behaviours can be targeted alongside other lifestyle behaviours, such as smoking and inadequate physical activity to improve health.

Is the Neighbourhood Environment Associated with Sedentary Behaviour Outside of School Hours Among Children?

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 19-02-2011

DOI: 10.1007/S12160-011-9260-6

Abstract: Little is known about neighbourhood environments and children's sedentary behaviour outside school hours. This study aims to examine the associations between public open spaces (POS), parent perceptions of the neighbourhood and children's sedentary behaviours. Parents reported their child's television viewing and computer/electronic game time and their perceptions of the physical and social neighbourhood. Children's sedentary time was objectively assessed. The closest POS was audited. Cross-sectionally, living near a POS with a water feature and greater parental satisfaction with POS quality were negatively associated with computer/e-games greater POS area was negatively associated with TV viewing. Longitudinally, living in a cul-de-sac and greater satisfaction with POS quality were negatively associated with computer/e-games and TV viewing, respectively. A walking path in the POS was positively associated with computer/e-games. Neighbourhood features appear to positively and negatively influence children's sedentary behaviours, highlighting the complexity of urban planning on behaviour. Further age- and context-specific studies are required.

Do features of public open spaces vary according to neighbourhood socio-economic status?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2007.11.002

Abstract: This study examined the relations between neighbourhood socio-economic status and features of public open spaces (POS) hypothesised to influence children's physical activity. Data were from the first follow-up of the Children Living in Active Neighbourhoods (CLAN) Study, which involved 540 families of 5-6 and 10-12-year-old children in Melbourne, Australia. The Socio-Economic Index for Areas Index (SEIFA) of Relative Socio-economic Advantage/Disadvantage was used to assign a socioeconomic index score to each child's neighbourhood, based on postcode. Participant addresses were geocoded using a Geographic Information System. The Open Space 2002 spatial data set was used to identify all POS within an 800 m radius of each participant's home. The features of each of these POS (1497) were audited. Variability of POS features was examined across quintiles of neighbourhood SEIFA. Compared with POS in lower socioeconomic neighbourhoods, POS in the highest socioeconomic neighbourhoods had more amenities (e.g. picnic tables and drink fountains) and were more likely to have trees that provided shade, a water feature (e.g. pond, creek), walking and cycling paths, lighting, signage regarding dog access and signage restricting other activities. There were no differences across neighbourhoods in the number of playgrounds or the number of recreation facilities (e.g. number of sports catered for on courts and ovals, the presence of other facilities such as athletics tracks, skateboarding facility and swimming pool). This study suggests that POS in high socioeconomic neighbourhoods possess more features that are likely to promote physical activity amongst children.

Associations between sedentary behaviours and dietary intakes among adolescents

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 10-01-2018

DOI: 10.1017/S136898001700372X

Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to examine associations of in idual and aggregated screen-based behaviours, and total sitting time, with healthy and unhealthy dietary intakes among adolescents. Cross-sectional study of adolescents. Participants self-reported durations of television viewing, computer use, playing electronic games (e-games), total sitting time, daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and frequency of consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), diet beverages, fast foods and discretionary snacks. Logistic regression models were conducted to identify associations of screen-based behaviours, total screen time and total sitting time with dietary intakes. Victoria, Australia. Adolescents ( n 939) in School Year 11 (mean age 16·8 years). The results showed that watching television (≥2 h/d) was positively associated with consuming SSB and diet beverages each week and consuming discretionary snacks at least once daily, whereas computer use (≥2 h/d) was inversely associated with daily fruit and vegetable intake and positively associated with weekly fast-food consumption. Playing e-games (any) was inversely associated with daily vegetable intake and positively associated with weekly SSB consumption. Total screen (≥2 h/d) and sitting (h/d) times were inversely associated with daily fruit and vegetable consumption, with total screen time also positively associated with daily discretionary snack consumption and weekly consumption of SSB and fast foods. In idual and aggregated screen-based behaviours, as well as total sitting time, are associated with a number of indicators of healthy and unhealthy dietary intake. Future research should explore whether reducing recreational screen time improves adolescents’ diets.

Longitudinal predictors of frequent vegetable and fruit consumption among socio-economically disadvantaged Australian adolescents

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2014.03.023

Abstract: Adequate vegetable and fruit consumption is necessary for preventing nutrition-related diseases. Socio-economically disadvantaged adolescents tend to consume relatively few vegetables and fruits. However, despite nutritional challenges associated with socio-economic disadvantage, a minority of adolescents manage to eat vegetables and fruit in quantities that are more in line with dietary recommendations. This investigation aimed to identify predictors of more frequent intakes of fruits and vegetables among adolescents over a 2-year follow-up period. Data were drawn from 521 socio-economically disadvantaged (maternal education ≤Year 10 of secondary school) Australian adolescents aged 12-15 years. Participants were recruited from 37 secondary schools and were asked to complete online surveys in 2004/2005 (baseline) and 2006/2007 (follow-up). Surveys comprised a 38-item FFQ and questions based on Social Ecological models examining intrapersonal, social and environmental influences on diet. At baseline and follow-up, respectively, 29% and 24% of adolescents frequently consumed vegetables (≥2 times/day) 33% and 36% frequently consumed fruit (≥1 time/day). In multivariable logistic regressions, baseline consumption strongly predicted consumption at follow-up. Frequently being served vegetables at dinner predicted frequent vegetable consumption. Female sex, rarely purchasing food or drink from school vending machines, and usually being expected to eat all foods served predicted frequent fruit consumption. Findings suggest nutrition promotion initiatives aimed at improving eating behaviours among this at-risk population and should focus on younger adolescents, particularly boys improving adolescent eating behaviours at school and encouraging families to increase home availability of healthy foods and to implement meal time rules.

Preventing obesity in infants: the Growing healthy feasibility trial protocol

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 11-2015

DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2015-009258

Socioeconomic variation in diet and activity-related behaviours of Australian children and adolescents aged 2-16 years

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 19-06-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.2047-6310.2012.00060.X

Abstract: Evidence for age-related variation in the relationship between obesity-related behaviours and socioeconomic position may assist in the targeting of dietary and physical activity interventions among children. To investigate the relationship between different indicators of socioeconomic position and obesity-related behaviours across childhood and adolescence. Data were from 4487 children aged 2 to 16 years participating in the cross-sectional 2007 Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Socioeconomic position was defined by the highest education of the primary or secondary carer and parental income. Activity was assessed using recall methods with physical activity also assessed using pedometers. Intake of energy-dense drinks and snack foods, fruits and vegetables was assessed using 2 × 24-h dietary recalls. A socioeconomic gradient was evident for each dietary measure (although in age-specific analyses, not for energy-dense snacks in older children), as well as television viewing, but not physical activity. Whether each behaviour was most strongly related to parental income or education of the primary or secondary carer was age and sex dependent. The socioeconomic gradient was strongest for television viewing time and consumption of fruit and energy-dense drinks. A strong socioeconomic gradient in eating behaviours and television viewing time was observed. Relationships for particular behaviours differed by age, sex and how socioeconomic position was defined. Socioeconomic indicators define different population groups and represent different components of socioeconomic position. These findings may provide insights into who should be targeted in preventive health efforts at different life stages.

Workplace Sitting Breaks Questionnaire (SITBRQ): an assessment of concurrent validity and test-retest reliability

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-2014

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-1249

Behavior and beliefs related to dietary fat are influenced by weight-control status

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2002

DOI: 10.1016/S0002-8223(02)90026-X

Individual, social and environmental correlates of physical activity among women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2010.02.028

Abstract: Women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods are at heightened risk for physical inactivity, but little is known about the correlates of physical activity among this group. Using a social-ecological framework, this study aimed to determine the in idual, social and neighbourhood environmental correlates of physical activity amongst women living in such neighbourhoods. During 2007-2008 women (n = 4108) aged 18-45 years randomly selected from urban and rural neighbourhoods of low socioeconomic status in Victoria, Australia completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (long). They reported on in idual (self-efficacy, enjoyment, intentions, outcome expectancies, skills), social (childcare, social support from family and friends/colleagues, dog ownership) and neighbourhood environmental (neighbourhood cohesion, aesthetics, personal safety, 'walking environment') factors. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the odds of increasing categories of leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and transport-related physical activity (TRPA) for each in idual, social and environmental factor. In partially adjusted analyses, all in idual, social and environmental variables were positively associated with LTPA, while all in idual factors, family and friend support and the walking environment were positively associated with TRPA. In fully adjusted multivariable models, all in idual and social factors remained significantly associated with LTPA, while self-efficacy, enjoyment, intentions, social support, and neighbourhood 'walking environment' variables remained significantly associated with TRPA. In conclusion, in idual and social factors were most important for LTPA, while in idual, social and neighbourhood environmental factors were all associated with TRPA. Acknowledging the cross-sectional design, the findings highlight the importance of different levels of potential influence on physical activity in different domains, which should be considered when developing strategies to promote physical activity amongst women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

Consumers' readiness to eat a plant-based diet

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-11-2006

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.EJCN.1602320

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine consumers' readiness to change to a plant-based diet. Mail survey that included questions on readiness to change, eating habits and perceived benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet. Victoria, Australia. A total of 415 randomly selected adults. In terms of their readiness to eat a plant-based diet, the majority (58%) of participants were in the precontemplation stage of change, while 14% were in contemplation reparation, and 28% in action/maintenance. Those in the action/maintenance stage ate more fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole-meal bread, and cooked cereals than those in earlier stages. There were statistically significant differences in age and vegetarian status between the stages of change, but not for other demographic variables. There were strong differences across the stages of change with regard to perceived benefits and barriers to plant-based diets. For ex le, those in action/maintenance scored highest for benefit factors associated with well-being, weight, health, convenience and finances, whereas those in the precontemplation stage did not recognise such benefits. These findings can be utilised to help provide appropriate nutrition education and advertising, targeted at specific stages of change. For ex le, education about how it is possible to obtain iron and protein from a plant-based diet and on the benefits of change, in addition to tips on how to make a gradual, easy transition to a plant-based diet, could help progress precontemplators to later stages. Australian Research Council.

Gestational weight gain information: seeking and sources among pregnant women.

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 07-08-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S12884-015-0600-6

The neighborhood social environment and body mass index among youth: a mediation analysis

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-9-31

Total and domain‐specific sitting time among employees in desk‐based work settings in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2015

DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12293

Abstract: To describe the total and domain-specific daily sitting time among a s le of Australian office-based employees. In April 2010, paper-based surveys were provided to desk-based employees (n=801) in Victoria, Australia. Total daily and domain-specific (work, leisure-time and transport-related) sitting time (minutes/day) were assessed by validated questionnaires. Differences in sitting time were examined across socio-demographic (age, sex, occupational status) and lifestyle characteristics (physical activity levels, body mass index [BMI]) using multiple linear regression analyses. The median (95% confidence interval [CI]) of total daily sitting time was 540 (531-557) minutes/day. Insufficiently active adults (median=578 minutes/day, [95%CI: 564-602]), younger adults aged 18-29 years (median=561 minutes/day, [95%CI: 540-577]) reported the highest total daily sitting times. Occupational sitting time accounted for almost 60% of total daily sitting time. In multivariate analyses, total daily sitting time was negatively associated with age (unstandardised regression coefficient [B]=-1.58, p<0.001) and overall physical activity (minutes/week) (B=-0.03, p<0.001) and positively associated with BMI (B=1.53, p=0.038). Desk-based employees reported that more than half of their total daily sitting time was accrued in the work setting. Given the high contribution of occupational sitting to total daily sitting time among desk-based employees, interventions should focus on the work setting.

Who is eating where? Findings from the SocioEconomic Status and Activity in Women (SESAW) study

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 10-12-2011

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980010003022

Associations between mothers' perceptions of the cost of fruit and vegetables and children's diets: Will children pay the price?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 28-09-2011

DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2011.164

Abstract: Perceptions that fruit and vegetables are expensive are more common among the socio-economically disadvantaged groups and are linked to poor dietary outcomes. Such perceptions may be exacerbated in countries recently affected by natural disasters, where devastation of fruit and vegetable crops has resulted in increase in prices of fruit and vegetables. Examining the associations of perceptions of fruit and vegetable affordability and children's diets can offer insights into how the high prices of fruit and vegetables might have an impact on the diets of children. We analysed the data from 546 socio-economically disadvantaged mother-child pairs to assess the relationship between maternal perceptions of fruit and vegetable affordability and the diets of their children. Fruit consumption was lower among children whose mothers felt the cost of fruit was too high. Maternal perceptions of fruit and vegetable affordability were not associated with any other aspect of child's diet. Our results suggest a possible role for maternal perceptions of fruit affordability in children's diet, though further research is warranted.

Family food environment and dietary behaviors likely to promote fatness in 5–6 year-old children

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-02-2006

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0803266

Abstract: The family food environment (FFE) is likely to exert important influences on young children's eating. Examination of multiple aspects of the FFE may provide useful insights regarding which of these might most effectively be targeted to prevent childhood obesity. To assess the associations between the FFE and a range of obesity-promoting dietary behaviors in 5-6-year-old children. Cross-sectional study. Five hundred and sixty families s led from three socio-economically distinct areas. Predictors included parental perceptions of their child's diet, food availability, child feeding practices, parental modeling of eating and food preparation and television (TV) exposure. Dietary outcomes included energy intake, vegetable, sweet snack, savory snack and high-energy (non-dairy) fluid consumption. Multiple linear regression analyses, adjusted for all other predictor variables and maternal education, showed that several aspects of the FFE were associated with dietary outcomes likely to promote fatness in 5-6-year-old children. For ex le, increased TV viewing time was associated with increased index of energy intake, increased sweet snack and high-energy drink consumption, and deceased vegetable intake. In addition, parent's increased confidence in the adequacy of their child's diet was associated with increased consumption of sweet and savory snacks and decreased vegetable consumption. This study substantially extends previous research in the area, providing important insights with which to guide family-based obesity prevention strategies.

Physical activity beliefs and behaviours among adults attempting weight control

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2000

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0801089

Abstract: To compare the frequency and duration of varying intensities of physical activity performed by adults trying to lose weight, avoid gaining weight and not actively trying to control their weight, and to compare these groups' beliefs about the physical activity they should perform. Random postal survey of 2500 Victorian adults selected from the Australian electoral roll (response rate=42%). One-week physical activity recall (frequency and duration of walking, other moderate activity and vigorous activity), BMI (based on self-reported height and weight) and weight-control behaviour. At the time of the survey, 27% of respondents were actively trying to avoid gaining weight, 23. 9% trying to lose weight and 49.1% undertaking no weight control. Respondents spent a mean time of 4.0 (+/-7.1) h walking, 5.5 (+/-7. 9) h in moderate activity and 3.1(+/-5.9) h in vigorous activity during the week prior to the survey. Women trying to lose weight or avoid gaining weight engaged in vigorous activity more often than women not trying to control their weight. After adjusting for age, education and BMI, women trying to avoid gaining weight were 2.4 times more likely, and women trying to lose weight 2.5 times more likely, to have met current physical activity guidelines than women undertaking no weight control. On average, respondents believed they should spend 5.2 (+/-6.9) h walking, 6.5 (+/-8.2) h in moderate activity and 4.3 (+/-6.5) h in vigorous activity each week. Women trying to lose weight felt they should perform vigorous activity more often than other women. Weight-control behaviour was not associated with physical activity beliefs and behaviours of men. Walking is a common activity among adults attempting weight control. However, many men and women do not fully recognize the value of moderate-intensity physical activity. Future efforts should be directed at promoting the role of moderate-intensity activity in weight control, particularly activity that can be performed outside of planned activity sessions. International Journal of Obesity (2000)24, 81-87

The relationship between education and food consumption in the 1995 Australian National Nutrition Survey

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 08-2004

DOI: 10.1079/PHN2003577

Abstract: To assess the relationship between education and the intake of a variety of in idual foods, as well as groups of foods, for Australian men and women in different age groups. Cross-sectional national survey of free-living men and women. A s le of 2501 men and 2739 women aged 18 years and over who completed the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) 1995. Information about the frequency of consumption of 88 food items was obtained using a food-frequency questionnaire in a nation-wide nutrition survey. Irregular and regular consumers of foods were identified according to whether they consumed in idual foods less than or more than once per month. The relationship between single foods and an index of education (no post-school qualifications, vocational, university) was analysed via contingency table chi-square statistics for men and women. Food group variety scores were derived by assigning in idual foods to conventional food group taxonomies, and then summing the dichotomised intake scores for in idual foods within each food group. Two-way analyses of variance (education by age groups) were performed on food variety scores for men and women, separately. While university-educated men and women consumed many in idual foods more regularly than less-educated people, they were less likely to be regular consumers of several meat products. The relationship between education and food consumption was less apparent when in idual food scores were aggregated into food group scores. University-educated men and women exhibited higher scores on total food group variety than the other educational groups. Higher education is associated with the regular consumption of a wider variety of foods. Aggregation of in idual food consumption indices into food variety scores may mask the apparent effects of educational background on food consumption.

Are children’s perceptions of neighbourhood social environments associated with their walking and physical activity?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2008.07.006

Abstract: This study aimed to examine cross-sectional associations between neighbourhood social environmental factors and physical activity (PA) among Australian primary school children. Baseline data from a large-scale trial among 957 children (48% boys) aged 9-12 years were utilised. Children self-reported their perceptions of the neighbourhood social environment including social networks (e.g. there are lots of other children around to play with), and social capital (e.g. there are lots of people in my area I could go to if I need help). Children also self-reported their weekly walking frequency and PA from which average daily moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) was calculated. Linear regression analyses examined these associations. Boys performed 17 min/day more MVPA than girls (p<0.01), and girls performed one extra trip/week than boys (p<0.001). Children's perceptions of social capital (p<0.0001) and social networks (p<0.01) were both positively associated with MVPA and social capital was positively associated with walking frequency (p<0.05). These associations were not moderated by the child's sex. These findings suggest that children who had positive perceptions of neighbourhood social capital and social networks in the neighbourhood, tended to be more physically active. Longitudinal and experimental studies are required to further test the influence of these factors among children.

Young and free? A study of independent mobility among urban and rural dwelling Australian children

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2012.03.005

Abstract: To examine urban/rural differences in children's independent mobility associations between mobility licences and children's independent mobility and potential correlates of mobility licences. Cross-sectional study of 430 primary (48% boys 72% urban) and 258 secondary schoolchildren (52% boys 51.6% urban) and their parents. Parents survey reported the mobility licences they granted to their children (e.g. allowing them to cross main roads on their own), access to outdoor playspaces and mobile phone ownership. Children survey reported their independent mobility on school journeys and on weekends. Differences were examined in mobility licences and independent mobility by sex, urban/rural setting and age-group. Regression analyses examined associations between mobility licences and independent mobility and how access to playspaces, and mobile phone ownership, were associated with mobility licences. Overall, on average, boys were granted more mobility licences, than were girls, but there were no significant differences by urban/rural location. Variations in independent mobility by urban/rural locality were identified on the school journey but not on weekends. Boys attending urban primary schools had highest rates (44%) of walking/cycling independently to school those attending rural secondary schools had the lowest (14%). Among urban boys and rural primary school-aged girls access to outdoor playspaces was associated with mobility licences. Mobile phone ownership was associated with mobility licences only among boys attending urban primary schools. Many Australian children in urban and rural areas lack independent mobility. Further research should examine social hysical environmental influences on parental restrictions, to inform interventions that aim to promote children's independent mobility.

Snacking behaviours of adolescents and their association with skipping meals

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 17-09-2007

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-4-36

Abstract: Snacking is likely to play an important role in the development of overweight and obesity, yet little is known about the contexts of snacking in adolescents or how snacking may influence other dietary habits, like meal skipping. This study examines the contexts in which adolescents snack and whether these contexts are associated with demographic characteristics of adolescents and with meal skipping. A cross-sectional, self-reported online food habits survey was administered to 3,250 secondary students in years seven and nine. The students were drawn from 37 secondary schools in Victoria, Australia during 2004–2005. Frequencies of meal skipping, and snacking in eight contexts, were compared across gender, year level and region of residence. Logistic regressions were performed to examine associations between snacking contexts and meal skipping adjusting for gender and region. The most common contexts for snacking among adolescents were after school (4.6 times per week), while watching TV (3.5 times per week) and while hanging out with friends (2.4 times per week). Adolescents were least likely to snack all day long (0.8 times per week) or in the middle of the night (0.4 times per week). Snacking contexts were variously associated with gender, year level and region. In contrast, meal skipping was associated with gender and region of residence but not year level. Adolescents who reported more frequent snacking on the run, on the way to or from school, all day long, or in the middle of the night were more likely to skip meals. These data suggest adolescents snack frequently, especially in their leisure time. In addition, adolescents who snack on the run, on the way to or from school, all day long or in the middle of the night are more likely to skip meals than are adolescents who don't snack at these times. Understanding the contexts in which adolescents snack, and their associations with skipping meals, may assist those involved in the promotion of healthy food habits among adolescents.

Is the objective food environment associated with perceptions of the food environment?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 11-08-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980011001947

Abstract: The present study examined whether objective measures of the food environment are associated with perceptions of the food environment and whether this relationship varies by socio-economic disadvantage. The study is a cross-sectional analysis of self-report surveys and objective environment data. Women reported their perceptions on the nutrition environment. Participants’ homes and food stores were geocoded to measure the objective community nutrition environment. Data on the average price and variety of fruit and vegetables were used to measure the objective consumer nutrition environment. The study was conducted in Melbourne, Australia, in 2003–2004. Data presented are from a s le of 1393 women aged 18–65 years. Overall the match between the perceived and objective environment was poor, underscoring the limitations in using perceptions of the environment as a proxy for the objective environment. Socio-economic disadvantage had limited impact on the relationship between perceived and objective nutrition environment. Further research is needed to understand the determinants of perceptions of the nutrition environment to enhance our understanding of the role of perceptions in nutrition choices and drivers of socio-economic inequalities in nutrition.

Tracking of children's body-mass index, television viewing and dietary intake over five-years

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2011.07.014

Abstract: To examine the tracking of children's body mass index, television viewing, and dietary intake over five-years. In 2002/3 (T1) parents of children aged 5-6 years (n=175) and 10-12 years (n=121), from Victoria, Australia, completed measures assessing their child's frequency of fruit, vegetable, and energy-dense sweet and savory snack consumption, and their child's television (TV) viewing. Children's height and weight were measured by researchers and sex-age adjusted body mass index (BMI) calculated. All measures were repeated in 2006 (T2) and 2008 (T3). Generalized estimating equations (GEE) (standardized stability coefficients, β) were used to assess tracking and were interpreted as: β 0.6=high. High standardized stability coefficients were found for BMI (β=0.74-0.92), TV viewing (β=0.65-0.73), and frequency of fruit consumption (β=0.73-0.89) among younger and older children. Moderate-to-high standardized stability coefficients were found for frequency of vegetable (β=0.52-0.86), energy-dense sweet (β=0.41-0.65), and savory snack consumption (0.40-0.67) among younger and older children. BMI, TV viewing and dietary intake patterns are moderate-highly stable throughout childhood and into adolescence. Further research that identifies and targets high risk groups to prevent increased BMI, reduce TV viewing and promote healthy dietary behaviors may be justified.

A natural experiment to examine the impact of park renewal on park-use and park-based physical activity in a disadvantaged neighbourhood: The REVAMP study methods

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-06-2014

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-600

What helps children to be more active and less sedentary? Perceptions of mothers living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-2011

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2214.2011.01321.X

Abstract: Increasing children's participation in physical activity and decreasing time spent in sedentary behaviours is of great importance to public health. Despite living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, some children manage to engage in health-promoting physical activity and avoid high levels of screen-based activities (i.e. watching TV, computer use and playing electronic games). Understanding how these children manage to do well and whether there are unique features of their home or neighbourhood that explain their success is important for informing strategies targeting less active and more sedentary children. The aim of this qualitative study was to gain in-depth insights from mothers regarding their child's resilience to low physical activity and high screen-time. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 38 mothers of children who lived in disadvantaged neighbourhoods in urban and rural areas of Victoria, Australia. The interviews were designed to gain in-depth insights about perceived in idual, social and physical environmental factors influencing resilience to low physical activity and high screen-time. Themes relating to physical activity that emerged from the interviews included: parental encouragement, support and modelling sports culture in a rural town the physical home and neighbourhood environment child's in idual personality and dog ownership. Themes relating to screen-time behaviours encompassed: parental control and child's in idual preferences. The results offer important insights into potential avenues for developing 'resilience' and increasing physical activity and reducing screen-time among children living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. In light of the negative effects of low physical activity and high levels of screen-time on children's health, this evidence is urgently needed.

The correlates of preschoolers' compliance with screen recommendations exist across multiple domains

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2013.05.020

Abstract: To investigate the in idual, social and physical environment correlates of preschool children's compliance with Australian/Canadian and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) screen recommendations. An Ecological Model (EM) was used to identify constructs potentially associated with children's screen time. In 2008-2009, parents in Melbourne, Australia, reported their child's screen time and on a range of potential correlates. Children (n = 935 54% boys, mean age 4.54 ± 0.70 years) were assessed as meeting or not meeting each of the screen recommendations. Logistic regression assessed bivariable and multivariable associations. In total, 15 explanatory variables, across the three domains of the EM were associated with boys' and/or girls' compliance with either Australian/Canadian or AAP recommendations. Correlates varied by sex and recommendation. Maternal television viewing time was the only consistent correlate for both boys' and girls' compliance with both recommendations. No demographic groups were identified as being less likely to comply with screen recommendations. Public health programs should take account of the sex-specific nature of correlates of preschool children's screen time. Preschool children across all demographic groups need support to engage in less screen use. Parents may benefit from education and parenting skills to minimize potentially harmful effects of excessive screen time for their child.

Features of public open spaces and physical activity among children: Findings from the CLAN study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2008.07.015

Abstract: To examine associations between features of public open spaces, and children's physical activity. 163 children aged 8-9 years and 334 adolescents aged 13-15 years from Melbourne, Australia participated in 2004. A Geographic Information System was used to identify all public open spaces (POS) within 800 m of participants' homes and their closest POS. The features of all POS identified were audited in 2004/5. Accelerometers measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) after school and on weekends. Linear regression analyses examined associations between features of the closest POS and participants' MVPA. Most participants had a POS within 800 m of their home. The presence of playgrounds was positively associated with younger boys' weekend MVPA (B=24.9 min/day p< or =0.05), and lighting along paths was inversely associated with weekend MVPA (B=-54.9 min/day p< or =0.05). The number of recreational facilities was inversely associated with younger girls' MVPA after school (B=-2.6 min/day p< or =0.05) and on the weekend (B=-8.7 min/day p< or =0.05). The presence of trees providing shade (5.8 min/day, p< or =0.01) and signage regarding dogs (B=6.8 min/day, p< or =0.05) were positively associated with adolescent girls' MVPA after school. Certain features of POS were associated with participants' MVPA, although mixed associations were evident. Further research is required to clarify these complex relationships.

Increasing central adiposity: the Nepean longitudinal study of young people aged 7-8 to 12-13 y

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-08-2005

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0803038

Abstract: Estimates of the prevalence of overweight and obesity in young people are typically based on body mass index (BMI). However, BMI may not indicate the level of central adiposity. Waist circumference has therefore been recommended to identify young people at risk of morbidity associated with central adiposity. To investigate (a) change in total and central adiposity between 7-8 and 12-13 y (b) agreement between classifying young people as overweight or obese based on total adiposity and central adiposity, and (c) risk factors associated with the development of total and central adiposity. Anthropometric measurements were taken on 342 children in 1996/97 and 5 y later. Risk factors examined included birth weight, physical activity, TV viewing, pubertal status, parental adiposity, diet and socio-economic status. Between 7-8 and 12-13 y indices of central adiposity increased more than total adiposity waist circumference z-score increased by (mean+/-s.d.) 0.74+/-0.92 and BMI z-score increased by 0.18+/-0.67. At 12-13 y there was moderate agreement between the two measures of adiposity (weighted kappa=0.64). However, waist circumference identified a greater number of young people as overweight or obese compared to BMI (41.2 vs 29.3%, P<0.001). Adiposity status at 7-8 y, maternal obesity, and pubertal stage were the strongest predictors of BMI status at 12-13 y. Risk factors associated with increased central adiposity were similar. Overweight and obesity, as measured by waist circumference, is a bigger problem than is currently assessed by BMI. Targeting known risk factors for total adiposity may be an appropriate strategy for preventing increased central adiposity.

What predicts children's active transport and independent mobility in disadvantaged neighborhoods?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2017.02.003

Abstract: This study examined two year changes in children's active transport and independent mobility and prospective associations between in idual, social and physical environmental predictors of interest and these behaviors two years later. Overall, 43.5% of children (12.0±2.1 years) used active transport on the school journey at T1 and at T2 (p=0.77), and 35.3% engaged in independent mobility on the school journey at T1 and 29.6% at T2 (p=0.07). Enjoyment, parental safety concerns, and proximity to walking tracks were associated with independent mobility on the school journey. Road safety and social norms were associated with active transport and independent mobility to local destinations. These factors provide potential targets for interventions.

Neighbourhood-socioeconomic variation in women's diet: The role of nutrition environments

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-2010

DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2010.174

Abstract: Living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods is associated with increased risk of a poor diet however, the mechanisms underlying associations are not well understood. This study investigated whether selected healthy and unhealthy dietary behaviours are patterned by neighbourhood-socioeconomic disadvantage, and if so, whether features of the neighbourhood-nutrition environment explain these associations. A survey was completed by 1399 women from 45 neighbourhoods of varying levels of socioeconomic disadvantage in Melbourne, Australia. Survey data on fruit, vegetable and fast-food consumption were linked with data on food store locations (supermarket, greengrocer and fast-food store density and proximity) and within-store factors (in-store data on price and availability for supermarkets and greengrocers) obtained through objective audits. Multilevel regression analyses were used to examine associations of neighbourhood disadvantage with fruit, vegetable and fast-food consumption, and to test whether nutrition environment factors mediated these associations. After controlling for in idual-level demographic and socioeconomic factors, neighbourhood disadvantage was associated with less vegetable consumption and more fast-food consumption, but not with fruit consumption. Some nutrition environmental factors were associated with both neighbourhood disadvantage and with diet. Nutrition environmental features did not mediate neighbourhood-disadvantage variations in vegetable or fast-food consumption. Although we found poorer diets among women living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Melbourne, the differences were not attributable to less supportive nutrition environments in these neighbourhoods.

Walking and Cycling to School. Predictors of Increases Among Children and Adolescents

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2008.10.011

Abstract: Little is known about what happens to active commuting as children get older, and less is known about influences on changes in this behavior. This study examined predictors of increases in children's and adolescents' active commuting (walking or cycling) to/from school over a 2-year period. Participants were initially recruited and assessed in 2001. Follow-up data were collected in 2004 and 2006 and analyzed in 2008. Participants were 121 children (aged 9.1+/-0.34 years in 2004) and 188 adolescents (aged 14.5+/-0.65 years in 2004) from Melbourne, Australia. Parents and adolescents reported their perceptions of in idual-level factors and of the neighborhood social and physical environment. Weekly active commuting (walking or cycling) to/from school, ranging from 0 to 10 trips/week was also proxy- or self-reported at the initial measurement and again 2 years later. Logistic regression analyses examined predictors of increases in active commuting over time. Children whose parents knew many people in their neighborhood were more likely to increase their active commuting (OR=2.6 CI=1.2, 5.9 p=0.02) compared with other children. Adolescents whose parents perceived there to be insufficient traffic lights and pedestrian crossings in their neighborhood were less likely to increase their active commuting over 2 years (OR=0.4 CI=0.2, 0.8 p=0.01), whereas adolescents of parents who were satisfied with the number of pedestrian crossings were more likely to increase their active commuting (OR=2.4 CI=1.1, 5.4 p=0.03) compared with other adolescents. Social factors and physical environmental characteristics were the most important predictors of active commuting in children and adolescents, respectively.

Participants’ and health care providers’ insights regarding a web-based and mobile-delivered program to improve dietary behaviour among disadvantaged people with type 2 diabetes: Descriptive qualitati

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 20-02-2022

DOI: 10.2196/PREPRINTS.37429

Abstract: ealthy eating is a key element of type 2 diabetes (T2D) self-management. Digital interventions offer new avenues to reach broad audiences to promote healthy eating behaviours. However, the acceptance of these interventions by socioeconomically disadvantaged people such as those with lower levels of education, lower income, or ethnic minority groups, has not yet been fully evaluated. he objective of this study was to investigate the acceptability and usability of EatSmart, a 12-week, web-based and mobile-delivered healthy eating behaviour change support program, from the perspective of both the intervention participants living with T2D, and Health Care Providers (HCPs) involved with diabetes care. his study employed a qualitative descriptive design. Sixty disadvantaged adults with T2D, as determined by receipt of either a HealthCare Card or a pension/benefit as the main source of income, were recruited to participate in the program. Data from participants regarding their experiences with and perceptions of the program and longer-term maintenance of any behavioural or attitudinal changes were collected through an online self-report survey with open ended questions administered 12-weeks post-baseline (n=54), and semi-structured telephone interviews administered at 36-weeks post-baseline (n=16). Supplementary semi-structured interviews with six HCPs involved with diabetes care (including endocrinologists, accredited practicing dietitians, and diabetes nurse educators) were also conducted at 36-weeks post-baseline. These interviews aimed to understand providers’ views about successful and unsuccessful elements of EatSmart as a technology-delivered intervention, any concerns or barriers regarding use of these type of interventions, and feedback from their interactions with patients about the intervention’s content, impact, or observed benefits. All data from surveys and interviews were pooled and thematically analysed. ur data showed that EatSmart was acceptable to participants and contributed positively to improve food-related behaviours. Most participants mentioned that they enjoyed their experience with EatSmart and expressed high satisfaction with its content and delivery. The educational and motivational content was seen as the most useful parts of the program. Benefits discussed by intervention participants included gaining health knowledge and skills positive changes in their food purchasing and cooking and in eating greater quantities and varieties of fruits and vegetables. HCPs also described the intervention as beneficial and persuasive for the target audience and had specific suggestions for future tailoring of such programs. he findings suggested that this digitally-delivered intervention with its supportive educational modules and text messages was generally appealing for both participants and HCPs. This intervention medium shows promise and could feasibly be rolled out on a broader scale to augment usual diabetes care. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12619001111167 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12619001111167 R2-10.2196/19488

Do the Individual, Social, and Environmental Correlates of Physical Activity Differ Between Urban and Rural Women?

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Date: 26-12-2010

DOI: 10.1177/0013916510393275

Abstract: In this article, associations between in idual, social, and environmental factors and physical activity among 3,669 women (18-45 years) living in socioeconomically disadvantaged urban and rural areas were compared. In 2007-2008, participants reported levels of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and transport-related physical activity (TRPA) as well as five in idual, four social, and three environmental factors. Physical activity self- efficacy demonstrated stronger associations with LTPA among urban relative to rural women child care was associated with LTPA and intentions with TRPA among urban women only, and enjoyment was associated with TRPA among rural women only. Correlates of physical activity among urban and rural women were generally similar, although some tailoring of physical activity promotion strategies may be warranted.

A mobile health intervention promoting healthy gestational weight gain for women entering pregnancy at a high body mass index: the txt4two pilot randomised controlled trial

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 20-02-2017

DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14552

Abstract: To determine the feasibility and effectiveness of an mHealth intervention promoting healthy diet, physical activity and gestational weight gain in pregnant women. Randomised controlled trial (RCT). Australian tertiary obstetric hospital. One hundred pregnant women who were overweight or obese prior to pregnancy. Women recruited at the first antenatal clinic visit were randomised to either an intervention or a control group. The intervention consisted of a tailored suite of strategies delivered (from first antenatal visit until 36 weeks' gestation) via multiple modalities available on mobile devices. The primary outcome was intervention feasibility and secondary outcomes were objectively measured changes in gestational weight gain (GWG) and self-reported dietary intake and physical activity. Ninety-one women completed the study. Delivery to protocol provides evidence of program feasibility. Most women engaged regularly with the program, with the majority (97.6%) reporting that the intervention was helpful. Secondary outcomes demonstrated a significantly lower GWG in the intervention group (7.8 kg ± 4.7 versus 9.7 kg ± 3.9 P =0.041) compared with the control group at intervention completion. Intervention group women reported significantly smaller reductions in total, light- and moderate-intensity physical activity from baseline to completion of the intervention (P = 0.001) compared with the control group, but no differences in consumption frequencies of key food groups. An intervention that aimed to deliver healthy diet, physical activity and GWG guidance utilising innovative technology can be feasibly implemented and produce positive physical activity and GWG outcomes. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT: txt4two mHealth study improved gestational weight gain and physical activity in pregnant women with high BMIs.

Associations between Education and Personal Income with Body Mass Index among Australian Women Residing in Disadvantaged Neighborhoods

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Date: 09-2013

DOI: 10.4278/AJHP.120316-QUAN-143

Abstract: The aims of the current study were to (1) determine the association between personal income and body mass index (BMI) and between in idual education and BMI, and (2) examine the association between education and BMI across strata of personal income among women. The design of the study was a quantitative analysis of data from self-report questionnaires. The study setting was socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods in Victoria, Australia. The study included 4065 nonpregnant women (ages 18–45 years) living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. The study used a self report questionnaire measuring sociodemographic characteristics known to be associated with BMI. Multiple linear regressions with imputation were used to assess the association between education level, personal income, and BMI, while controlling for covariates. Mean (SD) observed BMI was 26.0 (6.1) kg/m 2 . Compared with women with low education, women with medium (b = −0.81 95% confidence interval, −1.30 to −0.27 p = .004) and high (b = −1.71 95% confidence interval, −2.34 to −1.09 p .001) education had statistically significantly lower BMI values. No differences in BMI were observed between income categories. Stratified analyses suggested that the education-BMI association may be stronger in low-income than higher-income women. Our data show that among women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas, high education level rather than personal income may be protective against overweight/obesity. High personal income, however, may buffer the effects of low education on BMI. Obesity prevention efforts should target women with lified disadvantage.

Barriers to avoiding fast-food consumption in an environment supportive of unhealthy eating

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 27-11-2013

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980012005083

Abstract: To investigate factors (ability, motivation and the environment) that act as barriers to limiting fast-food consumption in women who live in an environment that is supportive of poor eating habits. Cross-sectional study using self-reports of in idual-level data and objectively measured environmental data. Multilevel logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with frequency of fast-food consumption. Socio-economically disadvantaged areas in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. Women ( n 932) from thirty-two socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods living within 3 km of six or more fast-food restaurants. Women were randomly s led in 2007–2008 as part of baseline data collection for the Resilience for Eating and Activity Despite Inequality (READI) study. Consuming low amounts of fast food was less likely in women with lower perceived ability to shop for and cook healthy foods, lower frequency of family dining, lower family support for healthy eating, more women acquaintances who eat fast food regularly and who lived further from the nearest supermarket. When modelled with the other significant factors, a lower perceived shopping ability, mid levels of family support and living further from the nearest supermarket remained significant. Among those who did not perceive fruits and vegetables to be of high quality, less frequent fast-food consumption was further reduced for those with the lowest confidence in their shopping ability. Interventions designed to improve women's ability and opportunities to shop for healthy foods may be of value in making those who live in high-risk environments better able to eat healthily.

Children's television viewing and objectively measured physical activity: Associations with family circumstance

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2006

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-3-36

Perceptions of local neighbourhood environments and their relationship to childhood overweight and obesity

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 07-12-2004

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0802865

Abstract: To examine associations between parent and child perceptions of the local neighbourhood and overweight/obesity among children aged 5-6 and 10-12 y. Cross-sectional survey. In total, 291 families of 5-6-y-old and 919 families of 10-12-y-old children. Parent's perceptions of local neighbourhood and perceived child access to eight local destinations within walking distance of home 10-12-y-old children's perception of local neighbourhood socio-demographic characteristics (survey). Children's height and weight (measured). No perceptions of the local neighbourhood were associated with weight status among 5-6-y-old children. Among 10-12-y-old children, those whose parents agreed that there was heavy traffic in their local streets were more likely to be overweight or obese (OR=1.4, 95% CI=1.0-1.8), and those whose parents agreed that road safety was a concern were more likely to be obese (OR=3.9, 95% CI=1.0-15.2), compared to those whose parents disagreed with these statements. This study suggests that parental perceptions of heavy traffic on local streets and concern about road safety may be indirect influences on overweight and obesity among 10-12-y-old children. Future work should also consider perceptions of the neighbourhood related to food choice.

A Cross-Sectional Investigation of the Importance of Park Features for Promoting Regular Physical Activity in Parks

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 02-11-2017

DOI: 10.3390/IJERPH14111335

Socioeconomic position and physical activity among women in Melbourne, Australia: Does the use of different socioeconomic indicators matter?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2012.01.031

Abstract: This study aimed to identify which indicators of socioeconomic position (SEP) are independently associated with leisure-time physical activity among women. In 2005, women (n = 1166 18-65 years) from Melbourne, Australia, reported their own (education, occupation, income), their partner's (education, occupation), their household (home ownership, ability to cope with income), and their neighbourhood (area-level) SEP, and leisure-time physical activity. Multinomial logistic regression examined associations between SEP indicators and leisure-time physical activity categorized as: none (no min/week reference group), insufficient (1-149 min/week), and sufficient (≥150 min/week). In the fully adjusted model, lower education, lower partner's education (where applicable), and non-home ownership were independently associated with between 33% and 50% lower odds of sufficient physical activity, while lower income and lower area-level SEP were associated with 40% lower odds of insufficient physical activity. Understandings of socioeconomic inequalities in physical activity among women may be enhanced if a range of SEP indicators are used, particularly education, partner's education and home ownership.

Personal, social and environmental determinants of resilience to physical inactivity amongst socioeconomically disadvantaged women

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 29-10-2010

DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYN054

Abstract: While sex and socio-economic disparities in physical activity have been well documented, not all disadvantaged women are inactive. This study aimed to examine correlates of achieving recommended levels of physical activity among women of low socio-economic position. In 2005, a population-based s le of 291 women with low educational attainment provided survey data on leisure time physical activity (LTPA). Participants reported potential personal (enjoyment and self-efficacy barriers intentions guilt and priorities routines and scheduling occupational physical activity television viewing), social (support from family/friends social participation sport/recreation club membership dog ownership) and environmental (aesthetics safety local access footpaths interesting walks busy roads to cross heavy traffic) correlates of physical activity. Nearly 40% of participants achieved recommended LTPA (150 min week(-1)). Multivariable analyses revealed that higher levels of self-efficacy for walking [prevalence ratio (PR) 2.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19-3.53], higher enjoyment of walking (PR 1.48, 95% CI 1.04-2.12), greater intentions to be active (PR 1.97, 95% CI 1.12-3.45) and having set routines for physical activity (PR 1.91, 95% CI 1.18-3.09) were significantly associated with achieving recommended LTPA. Personal factors were the characteristics most strongly associated with achieving recommended levels of LTPA among women from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Are children and adolescents less active if parents restrict their physical activity and active transport due to perceived risk?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2010.02.010

Abstract: The study examined parental restriction of children's active transport and physical activity outside school hours due to safety concerns, and how this restriction was associated with perceived risk and with youth physical activity levels. We used a cross-sectional design with data from children aged 10-11 years (n=170) and adolescents aged 15-17 years (n=270) who participated in the five-year follow-up of the Children Living in Active Neighbourhoods longitudinal study in Melbourne, Australia. Walking/cycling to local destinations was survey-reported. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was recorded during non-school hours using accelerometers. Using surveys, parents reported perceived risk of their children being harmed in their neighbourhood, and restrictions they placed on their children's physical activity. Linear regression analyses examined how perceived risk, constrained behaviour, and physical activity were related. We found that perceived risk did not vary by age-group and was positively associated with constrained behaviour among adolescents but not children. Children were subject to higher levels of constrained behaviour than adolescents. Constrained behaviour was negatively associated with active transport among younger boys and among girls in both age-groups. Furthermore, it was negatively associated with younger boys' MVPA on weekends and with adolescent girls' MVPA during evenings. There were no associations between constrained behaviour and active transport or MVPA among adolescent boys. The findings demonstrate that constrained behaviour exhibited by parents may result in lower levels of active transport and of MVPA outside school hours. In particular, this was true for children and adolescent girls. Social interventions to improve perceived safety and physical interventions involving redesign of the built environment to improve actual safety may help to ease parental restriction of their children's active transport and physical activity in their neighbourhood.

Factors associated with high consumption of soft drinks among Australian secondary-school students

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 27-02-2017

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980017000118

Abstract: To examine demographic and behavioural correlates of high consumption of soft drinks (non-alcoholic sugar-sweetened carbonated drinks excluding energy drinks) among Australian adolescents and to explore the associations between high consumption and soft drink perceptions and accessibility. Cross-sectional self-completion survey and height and weight measurements. Australian secondary schools. Students aged 12–17 years participating in the 2012–13 National Secondary Students’ Diet and Activity (NaSSDA) survey ( n 7835). Overall, 14 % of students reported consuming four or more cups (≥1 litres) of soft drinks each week (‘high soft drink consumers’). Demographic factors associated with high soft drink consumption were being male and having at least $AU 40 in weekly spending money. Behavioural factors associated with high soft drink consumption were low fruit intake, consuming energy drinks on a weekly basis, eating fast foods at least once weekly, eating snack foods ≥14 times/week, watching television for h/d and sleeping for h/school night. Students who perceived soft drinks to be usually available in their home, convenient to buy and good value for money were more likely to be high soft drink consumers, as were students who reported usually buying these drinks when making a beverage purchase from the school canteen/vending machine. High soft drink consumption clusters with other unhealthy lifestyle behaviours among Australian secondary-school students. Interventions focused on reducing the availability of soft drinks (e.g. increased taxes, restricting their sale in schools) as well as improved education on their harms are needed to lower adolescents’ soft drink intake.

Where do people purchase food? A novel approach to investigating food purchasing locations

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 07-03-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12942-017-0082-Z

Food and activity in out of school hours care in Victoria

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-2006

DOI: 10.1111/J.1747-0080.2006.00018.X

Personal, Family, Social, and Environmental Correlates of Active Commuting to School

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2006

DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2005.08.047

Abstract: Active commuting to school may be an important opportunity for children to accumulate adequate physical activity for improved cardiovascular risk factors, enhanced bone health, and psychosocial well-being. The purpose of this study was to examine personal, family, social, and environmental correlates of active commuting to school among children. Cross-sectional study of 235 children aged 5 to 6 years and 677 children aged 10 to 12 years from 19 elementary schools in Melbourne, Australia. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by parents, and the older children. The shortest possible routes to school were examined using a geographic information system. Among both age groups, negative correlates of active commuting to school included parental perception of few other children in the neighborhood and no lights or crossings for their child to use, and an objectively assessed busy road barrier en route to school. In younger children, an objectively assessed steep incline en route to school was negatively associated with walking or cycling to school. Good connectivity en route to school was negatively associated with walking or cycling to school among older children. Among both age groups, children were more likely to actively commute to school if their route was <800 meters. There were no associations with perceived energy levels or enjoyment of physical activity, weight status, or family factors. For children, creating child-friendly communities and providing skills to safely negotiate the environment may be important. Environmental correlates of active transport in children and adults may differ and warrant further investigation.

Children's fruit and vegetable intake: Associations with the neighbourhood food environment

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2007.11.011

Abstract: To examine associations between availability of different types of food outlets and children's fruit and vegetable intake. Parents of 340 5-6 and 461 10-12 year-old Australian children reported how frequently their child ate 14 fruits and 13 vegetables in the last week in 2002/3. A geographic information system (GIS) was used to determine the availability of the following types of food outlets near home: greengrocers supermarkets convenience stores fast food outlets restaurants, cafés and takeaway outlets. Logistic regression analyses examined the likelihood of consuming fruit >or=2 times/day and vegetables >or=3 times/day, according to access to food outlets. Overall, 62.5% of children ate fruit >or=2 times/day and 46.4% ate vegetables >or=3 times/day. The more fast food outlets (OR=0.82, 95%CI=0.67-0.99) and convenience stores (OR=0.84, 95%CI=0.73-0.98) close to home, the lower the likelihood of consuming fruit >or=2 times/day. There was also an inverse association between density of convenience stores and the likelihood of consuming vegetables >or=3 times/day (OR=0.84, 95%CI=0.74-0.95). The likelihood of consuming vegetables >or=3 times/day was greater the farther children lived from a supermarket (OR=1.27, 95%CI=1.07-1.51) or a fast food outlet (OR=1.19, 95%CI=1.06-1.35). Availability of fast food outlets and convenience stores close to home may have a negative effect on children's fruit and vegetable intake.

Diet quality and cognitive function in mid-aged and older men and women

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-2019

DOI: 10.1186/S12877-019-1326-5

Abstract: To date much research into nutrition and cognitive function has been at the nutrient or food level, with inconsistent results. There is increasing interest in the dietary pattern approach to assess whole diet quality and its association with cognitive function. This study investigated if diet quality is associated with cognitive function in men and women aged 55 years and over. Adults aged 55–65 years in the Wellbeing, Eating and Exercise for a Long Life (WELL) study in Victoria, Australia ( n = 617) completed a postal survey including a 111-item food frequency questionnaire in 2010 and 2014. Diet quality was assessed via the revised dietary guideline index (DGI-2013) and also by its in idual components which assessed key food groups and dietary behaviours from the Australian Dietary Guidelines. The Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status (TICS-m) measured cognitive function in 2014. Associations between past (2010) and recent (2014) diet quality and its components, and cognitive function were assessed by linear regression adjusted for covariates. After adjustment for age, sex, education, urban/rural status and physical activity there were no associations between diet quality in 2010 and cognitive function in 2014. However participants who reported higher dietary variety (B = 0.28, 95% CI 0.03, 0.52) and women who reported “sometimes” adding salt to food after cooking (B = 0.98, 95% CI 0.25, 1.71) in 2010 displayed better cognitive function in 2014. In 2014, usual consumption of higher fibre bread choices in the total s le (B = 1.32, 95% CI 0.42, 2.23), and higher diet quality (B = 0.03, 95% CI 0.00, 0.07) and greater fluid consumption (B = 0.14, 95% CI 0.01, 0.27) in men were all associated with better cognitive function. In addition, men who reported “usually” adding salt to their food during cooking displayed poorer cognitive function (B = -1.37, 95% CI -2.39, − 0.35). There were no other associations between dietary intake and cognitive function observed in the adjusted models. An association between dietary variety and some limited dietary behaviours and cognitive function was observed, with variation by gender. Future research should consider trajectories of dietary change over longer time periods as determinants of health and function in older age.

Predicting healthy lifestyle patterns among retirement age older adults in the WELL study: A latent class analysis of sex differences

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2013.09.010

Abstract: The aim of this study was to identify subgroups of retirement age older adults with respect to their lifestyle patterns of eating, drinking, smoking, physical activity and TV viewing behaviors, and to examine the association between these patterns and socio-demographic covariates. The s le consisted of 3133 older adults aged 55-65 years from the Wellbeing, Eating and Exercise for a Long Life (WELL) study, 2010. This study used latent class analysis (stratified by sex), with a set of lifestyle indicators and including socio-demographic covariates. Statistical analyses were performed by generalized linear latent and mixed models in Stata. Two classes of lifestyle patterns were identified: Healthy (53% men and 72% women) and less healthy lifestyles. Physical activity, TV-viewing time, and fruit intake were good indicators distinguishing the "Healthier" class, whereas consumption of vegetables, alcohol (men) and fast food (women) could not clearly discriminate older adults in the two classes. Class membership was associated with education, body mass index, and self-rated health. This study contributes to the literature on lifestyle behaviors among older adults, and provides evidence that there are meaningful sex differences in lifestyle behaviors between subgroups of older adults. From a policy perspective, understanding indicators or "markers" of healthy and less healthy lifestyle patterns is important for identifying target groups for interventions.

ShopSmart 4 Health: results of a randomized controlled trial of a behavioral intervention promoting fruit and vegetable consumption among socioeconomically disadvantaged women

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2016

DOI: 10.3945/AJCN.116.133173

Abstract: Behavioral interventions show potential for promoting increased fruit and vegetable consumption in the general population. However, little is known about their effectiveness or cost-effectiveness among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, who are less likely to consume adequate fruit and vegetables. This study investigated the effects and costs of a behavior change intervention for increasing fruit and vegetable purchasing and consumption among socioeconomically disadvantaged women. ShopSmart 4 Health was a randomized controlled trial involving a 3-mo retrospective baseline data collection phase [time (T) 0], a 6-mo intervention (T1-T2), and a 6-mo no-intervention follow-up (T3). Socioeconomically disadvantaged women who were primary household shoppers in Melbourne, Australia, were randomly assigned to either a behavior change intervention arm (n = 124) or a control arm (n = 124). Supermarket transaction (sales) data and surveys measured the main outcomes: fruit and vegetable purchases and self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption. An analysis of supermarket transaction data showed no significant intervention effects on vegetable or fruit purchasing at T2 or T3. Participants in the behavior change intervention arm reported consumption of significantly more vegetables during the intervention (T2) than did controls, with smaller intervention effects sustained at 6 mo postintervention (T3). Relative to controls, vegetable consumption increased by ∼0.5 serving · participant(-1) · d(-1) from baseline to T2 and remained 0.28 servings/d higher than baseline at T3 among those who received the intervention. There was no intervention effect on reported fruit consumption. The behavior change intervention cost A$3.10 (in Australian dollars) · increased serving of vegetables(-1) · d(-1)CONCLUSIONS: This behavioral intervention increased vegetable consumption among socioeconomically disadvantaged women. However, the lack of observed effects on fruit consumption and on both fruit and vegetable purchasing at intervention stores suggests that further investigation of effective nutrition promotion approaches for this key target group is required. The ShopSmart 4 Health trial was registered at www.isrctn.com as ISRCTN48771770.

Bicycles gathering dust rather than raising dust – Prevalence and predictors of cycling among Australian schoolchildren

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2014.07.004

Abstract: To examine social and physical environmental correlates of cycling regularly (i.e. at least once per week) among school-aged children. Cross-sectional study of 430 primary (48% boys 72% urban) and 258 secondary school-aged children (52% boys 51.6% urban) in Victoria, Australia. Children survey-reported their frequency of cycling during a typical week. Parents survey-reported on traffic concern, social trust and whether their child was allowed to cycle alone on main roads. Using a Geographic Information System each child's home was mapped along with bike paths, sports/recreational facilities and shops within 800 m and 5000 m (using pedestrian/cyclist network buffers). Logistic regression analyses examined associations between these explanatory variables and the odds of cycling at least once per week. Factors associated with reduced odds of cycling at least once per week were: being a girl rather than a boy (odds ratio=0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.38-0.74) and the number of types of sports facilities located with 5000 m of home (odds ratio=0.87 95% confidence interval 0.78-0.97). Factors associated with increased odds of this were: bike path provision (top tertile) within 5000 m of home (odds ratio=1.70 95% confidence interval 1.11-2.61) and being allowed to cycle alone on main roads (odds ratio=1.75, 95% confidence interval 1.22-2.52). Further research is required to inform interventions to promote children's cycling, e.g. by skill-building so that parents feel comfortable allowing their child to cycle without adult accompaniment. Natural experiments are also needed to evaluate the impact of new cycling infrastructure on rates of cycling among children and the broader population.

Is healthy behavior contagious: associations of social norms with physical activity and healthy eating

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-7-86

Adoption and maintenance of gym-based strength training in the community setting in adults with excess weight or type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-08-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-015-0266-5

Prospective associations between diet quality and body mass index in disadvantaged women: the Resilience for Eating and Activity Despite Inequality (READI) study

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 07-04-2017

DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYX040

How Can Socio-Economic Differences in Physical Activity Among Women Be Explained? A Qualitative Study

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 14-07-2006

DOI: 10.1300/J013V43N01_06

Women's work. Maintaining a healthy body weight

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2009.04.221

Abstract: This study describes women's perceptions of the supports and barriers to maintaining a healthy weight among currently healthy weight women from urban and rural socio-economically disadvantaged areas. Using focus groups and interviews, we asked women about their experiences of maintaining a healthy weight. Overwhelmingly, women described their healthy weight practices in terms of concepts related to work and management. The theme of 'managing health' comprised issues of managing multiple responsibilities, time, and emotions associated with healthy practices. Rural women faced particular difficulties in accessing supports at a practical level (for ex le, lack of childcare) and due to the gendered roles they enacted in caring for others. Family background (in particular, mothers' attitudes to food and weight) also appeared to influence perceptions about healthy weight maintenance. In the context of global increases in the prevalence of obesity, the value of initiatives aimed at supporting healthy weight women to maintain their weight should not be under-estimated. Such initiatives need to work within the social and personal constraints that women face in maintaining good health.

Explaining educational disparities in adiposity: The role of neighborhood environments

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-08-2014

DOI: 10.1002/OBY.20853

Abstract: To examine the extent to which characteristics of the neighborhood built environment explain the association between adiposity and educational qualifications in Australian women. A community s le of 1,819 women (aged 18-66) from the Melbourne SESAW study provided information regarding their body mass index (BMI) and level of education. Objective measures of participants' residential neighborhood built environments were obtained using a Geographic Information System. Compared with women with a high school degree or above, women who did not complete high school had higher average BMI, which was partially explained by lower density of sports facilities and living less proximally to the coastline and to supermarkets. In a multiple mediator model, which explained 16.6% of the educational disparity in BMI, the number of sports facilities and presence of the coastline within 2 km of participants' homes were significant mediators of the observed socioeconomic disparity in BMI. The residential neighborhood environment may help to explain socioeconomic patterning of overweight and obesity in Australian women. These results provide further support for considering the built environment in obesity prevention initiatives, suggesting a potential role in decreasing social inequalities in obesity.

Can social cognitive theory constructs explain socio-economic variations in adolescent eating behaviours? A mediation analysis

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 16-10-2008

DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYN048

Abstract: Adolescents of low socio-economic position (SEP) are less likely than those of higher SEP to consume diets in line with current dietary recommendations. The reasons for these SEP variations remain poorly understood. We investigated the mechanisms underlying socio-economic variations in adolescents' eating behaviours using a theoretically derived explanatory model. Data were obtained from a community-based s le of 2529 adolescents aged 12-15 years, from 37 secondary schools in Victoria, Australia. Adolescents completed a web-based survey assessing their eating behaviours, self-efficacy for healthy eating, perceived importance of nutrition and health, social modelling and support and the availability of foods in the home. Parents provided details of maternal education level, which was used as an indicator of SEP. All social cognitive constructs assessed mediated socio-economic variations in at least one indicator of adolescents' diet. Cognitive factors were the strongest mediator of socio-economic variations in fruit intakes, while for energy-dense snack foods and fast foods, availability of energy-dense snacks at home tended to be strong mediators. Social cognitive theory provides a useful framework for understanding socio-economic variations in adolescent's diet and might guide public health programmes and policies focusing on improving adolescent nutrition among those experiencing socio-economic disadvantage.

The impact of financial incentives on participants’ food purchasing patterns in a supermarket-based randomized controlled trial

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-08-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-017-0573-0

The availability of snack food displays that may trigger impulse purchases in Melbourne supermarkets

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-03-2012

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-194

Is the perception of time pressure a barrier to healthy eating and physical activity among women?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 07-2009

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980008003066

Abstract: To describe the proportion of women reporting time is a barrier to healthy eating and physical activity, the characteristics of these women and the perceived causes of time pressure, and to examine associations between perceptions of time as a barrier and consumption of fruit, vegetables and fast food, and physical activity. A cross-sectional survey of food intake, physical activity and perceived causes of time pressure. A randomly selected community s le. A s le of 1580 women self-reported their food intake and their perceptions of the causes of time pressure in relation to healthy eating. An additional 1521 women self-reported their leisure-time physical activity and their perceptions of the causes of time pressure in relation to physical activity. Time pressure was reported as a barrier to healthy eating by 41 % of the women and as a barrier to physical activity by 73 %. Those who reported time pressure as a barrier to healthy eating were significantly less likely to meet fruit, vegetable and physical activity recommendations, and more likely to eat fast food more frequently. Women reporting time pressure as a barrier to healthy eating and physical activity are less likely to meet recommendations than are women who do not see time pressure as a barrier. Further research is required to understand the perception of time pressure issues among women and devise strategies to improve women’s food and physical activity behaviours.

Mediators of the Relationship Between Maternal Education and Children’s TV Viewing

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2007.02.039

Abstract: Maternal education is consistently found to be inversely related to children's television viewing and is associated with aspects of the family television environment. This study investigates whether family television environment mediates the relationship between maternal education and children's television viewing. Parents of 1484 children reported maternal education, time their child spends watching television, and 21 aspects of the family television environment (potential mediators) during 2002 and 2003. Separate regression analyses were conducted in 2006 for each potential mediator that met two initial conditions for mediation (associated with both maternal education and children's television viewing (p<0.10)), to assess whether inclusion reduced the association between maternal education and children's television viewing. Multivariable regression assessed the combined impact of all mediators. Twelve of 21 potential mediators met the initial conditions for mediation. Inclusion of each resulted in decreased beta values (3.2% to 15.2%) for the association between maternal education and television viewing. Number and placement of televisions in the home appeared to have the greatest mediating effect, followed by frequency of eating dinner in front of the television with the child and rules about television viewing during mealtimes. Together, the 12 mediators accounted for more than one-third of the association between maternal education and children's television viewing time. This study suggests the strong inverse relationship between maternal education and children's television viewing is partly mediated by aspects of the family television environment.

Can an incentive-based intervention increase physical activity and reduce sitting among adults? The ACHIEVE (Active Choices IncEntiVE) feasibility study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-03-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-017-0490-2

Family physical activity and sedentary environments and weight change in children

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 2008

DOI: 10.1080/17477160801970385

Abstract: To examine associations between family physical activity and sedentary environment and changes in body mass index (BMI) z-scores among 10-12-year-old children over three years. Design. Longitudinal (three-year follow-up). Subjects. In total, 152 boys and 192 girls aged 10-12 years at baseline. Measured height and weight at baseline and follow-up (weight status, BMI z-scores) aspects of the family physical activity and sedentary environment (parental and sibling modelling, reinforcement, social support, family-related barriers, rules/restrictions, home physical environment) measured with a questionnaire completed by parents at baseline. At baseline, 29.6% of boys and 21.9% of girls were overweight or obese, and mean (standard deviation, SD) BMI z-scores were 0.44 (0.99) and 0.28 (0.89), respectively. There was a significant change in BMI z-score among girls (mean change = 0.19, SD = 0.55, p < 0.001), but not boys. Among boys, the number of items at home able to be used for sedentary behaviour (B = 0.11, p = 0.037) was associated with relatively greater increases in BMI z-score. Among girls, sibling engagement in physical activity at least three times/wk (B = -0.17, p = 0.010) and the number of physical activity equipment items at home (B = -0.05, p = 0.018) were associated with relatively greater decreases in BMI z-score. Sibling physical activity and environmental stimuli for sedentary behaviours and physical activity within the home may be important targets for prevention of weight gain during the transition from childhood to adolescence.

Predictors of body mass index change in Australian primary school children

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1080/17477160802191122

Abstract: To assess associations between multiple potential predictors and change in child body mass index (BMI). In the 1997 Health of Young Victorians Study, children in Grades preparatory to three (aged 5-10 years) had their height and weight measured. Parents provided information on potential predictors of childhood overweight across six domains (children's diet, children's activity level, family composition, sociodemographic factors, prenatal factors and parental adiposity). Measures were repeated three years later in 2000/1. BMI was transformed to standardised (z) scores using the US 2000 Growth Chart data and children were classified as non-overweight or overweight according to international cut-points. Regression analyses, including baseline BMI z-score as a covariate, assessed the contribution of each potential predictor to change in BMI z-score, development of overweight and spontaneous resolution of overweight in 1,373 children. BMI z-score change was positively associated with frequency of take-away food, food quantity, total weekly screen time, non-Australian paternal country of birth, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and maternal and paternal BMI. Inverse associations were noted for the presence of siblings and rural residence (all p<0.05). Predictors of categorical change (development and resolution of overweight) were less clearly identified, apart from an association between maternal BMI and overweight development (p=0.02). Multivariable models suggested in idual determinants have a cumulative effect on BMI change. Strong short-term tracking of BMI makes it difficult to identify predictors of change. Nonetheless, putative determinants across all domains assessed were independently associated with adiposity change. Multi-faceted solutions are likely to be required to successfully deal with the complexities of childhood overweight.

Stability of body mass index in Australian children: a prospective cohort study across the middle childhood years.

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 04-2004

DOI: 10.1079/PHN2003537

Abstract: To investigate the prevalence and incidence of overweight and obesity, the frequency of overweight resolution and the influence of parental adiposity during middle childhood. As part of a prospective cohort study, height and weight were measured in 1997 and 2000/2001. Children were classified as non-overweight, overweight or obese based on standard international definitions. Body mass index (BMI) was transformed into age- and gender-specific Z -scores employing the LMS method and 2000 growth chart data of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Parents self-reported height and weight, and were classified as underweight, healthy weight, overweight or obese based on World Health Organization definitions. Primary schools in Victoria, Australia. In total, 1438 children aged 5–10 years at baseline. The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased between baseline (15.0 and 4.3%, respectively) and follow-up (19.7 and 4.8%, respectively P 0.001 for increase in overweight and obesity combined). There were 140 incident cases of overweight (9.7% of the cohort) and 24 of obesity (1.7% of the cohort) only 3.8% of the cohort (19.8% of overweight/obese children) resolved to a healthy weight. The stability of child adiposity as measured by BMI category (84.8% remained in the same category) and BMI Z -score ( r = 0.84 mean change = −0.05) was extremely high. Mean change in BMI Z -score decreased with age (linear trend β = 0.03, 95% confidence interval 0.01–0.05). The influence of parental adiposity largely disappeared when children's baseline BMI was adjusted for. During middle childhood, the incidence of overweight/obesity exceeds the proportion of children resolving to non-overweight. However, for most children adiposity remains stable, and stability appears to increase with age. Prevention strategies targeting children in early childhood are required.

A parent focused child obesity prevention intervention improves some mother obesity risk behaviors: the Melbourne infant program

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-9-100

Validity and reliability of a physical activity recall instrument among overweight and non-overweight men and women

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2003

DOI: 10.1016/S1440-2440(03)80273-6

Parents' dietary patterns are significantly correlated: findings from the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial Program

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 11-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S0007114511005757

Abstract: The objectives of the present study were to identify dietary patterns independently in first-time mothers and fathers, and to examine whether these patterns were correlated within families. Dietary intakes were collected at baseline in the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial Program using a validated FFQ in 454 pairs of first-time mothers and fathers. Education level was reported in associated questionnaires. Principal components analyses included frequencies of fifty-five food groups and were performed independently in mothers and fathers. Spearman's correlation coefficients were used to assess associations between dietary pattern scores. A total of four dietary patterns were identified in mothers and fathers. Of these, three dietary patterns had similar characteristics between these two populations, namely ‘Fruits and vegetables’, ‘High-energy snack and processed foods’, ‘High-fat foods’ in mothers and ‘Fruits’, ‘High-energy snack and processed foods’, ‘High-fat foods’ in fathers. The following two additional patterns were identified: ‘Cereals and sweet foods’ in mothers and ‘Potatoes and vegetables’ in fathers. Patterns incorporating healthier food items were found to be positively associated with parent education. An inverse association with education was found for the ‘High-fat foods’ and ‘High-energy snack and processed foods’ dietary patterns. Qualitatively similar patterns between corresponding mothers and fathers were the most strongly correlated (ρ = 0·34–0·45, P 0·001). There were some differences in dietary patterns between mothers and fathers, suggesting that it is worth deriving patterns separately when considering couples, and more generally between men and women. Exploring how these various patterns correlate within households provides important insights to guide the development and implementation of family-based interventions.

How feasible are healthy eating and physical activity for young women?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 05-2004

DOI: 10.1079/PHN2003541

Abstract: This study investigated young women's perceptions of the feasibility of physical activity and healthy eating behaviours, and how these vary by socio-economic status, domestic characteristics and weight status. This population-based study used a mailed questionnaire to investigate perceptions of the feasibility of commonly recommended healthy eating and physical activity behaviours among a s le of young women. The feasibility of 29 physical activity behaviours (e.g. relating to frequency, intensity, duration, domain/setting) and 15 healthy eating behaviours (e.g. relating to location/setting, fruit and vegetable intake, fat/sugar intake) was assessed. Height, weight and sociodemographic details were also obtained. Nation-wide community-based survey. A total of 445 women aged 18–32 years selected randomly from the Australian electoral roll. Most women reported that they either were already engaged in many of the healthy eating behaviours or saw these as highly feasible. Many physical activity behaviours, on the other hand, were perceived as less feasible, particularly among women with children and women who were overweight. Health promotion messages and strategies aimed at increasing physical activity and healthy eating are unlikely to succeed unless they take into account perceptions that these behaviours are not feasible. For young women, this may involve promoting more time-effective, flexible ways of achieving recommended physical activity. Messages specifically targeted to women with children, and women who are overweight, are required.

Obesity prevention programs and policies: Practitioner and policy‐maker perceptions of feasibility and effectiveness

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 13-05-2013

DOI: 10.1002/OBY.20172

Abstract: The aims of this study were to map obesity prevention activity being implemented by government, non-government, and community-based organizations to determine practitioner and policy-maker perceptions of the feasibility and effectiveness of a range of evidence-based obesity prevention strategies and to determine practitioner and policy-maker perceptions of preferred settings for obesity prevention strategies. This study involved a cross-sectional survey of 304 public health practitioners and policy-makers from government, non-government, and community organizations across Victoria, Australia. Participants reported their organizations' current obesity prevention programs and policies, their own perceptions of the feasibility and effectiveness of strategies to prevent obesity and their preferred settings for obesity prevention. Thirty-nine percent had an obesity prevention policy, and 92% were implementing obesity prevention programs. The most common programs focused on education, skill-building, and increasing access to healthy eating hysical activity opportunities. School curriculum-based initiatives, social support for physical activity, and family-based programs were considered the most effective strategies, whereas curriculum-based initiatives, active after-school programs, and providing access to and information about physical activity facilities were deemed the most feasible strategies. Schools were generally perceived as the most preferred setting for obesity prevention. Many organizations had obesity prevention programs, but far fewer had obesity prevention policies. Current strategies and those considered feasible and effective are often mismatched with the empirical literature. Systems to ensure better alignment between researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers, and identifying effective methods of translating empirical evidence into practice and policy are required.

Influence of peers on breastfeeding discontinuation among new parents: The melbourne inFANT program

Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Date: 09-2010

DOI: 10.1542/PEDS.2010-0771

Abstract: We aimed to investigate whether the proportion of breastfeeding mothers in first-time parent groups influenced the likelihood of ceasing breastfeeding and whether this was independent of socioeconomic position. Data were from 501 mothers (from 62 first-time parent groups initiated ∼6 weeks after birth) who provided data at the baseline and mid-intervention assessments of the Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity, and Nutrition Trial. Parent groups were ided into those in which ≤25% of mothers had ceased breastfeeding by 6 weeks (low-cessation groups) and those in which & % had ceased by 6 weeks (high-cessation groups). With the exclusion of mothers who had already ceased breastfeeding by 6 weeks, the proportion of mothers who ceased breastfeeding between the time of parent group initiation (6 weeks) and 6 months was higher in high-cessation groups than in low-cessation groups (37.4% vs 21.7% P = .001). After adjustment for maternal age, BMI, employment, and education and area-level socioeconomic position, membership in a group in which a large proportion of mothers had ceased breastfeeding by 6 weeks was strongly related to cessation of breastfeeding before 6 months (odds ratio: 2.1 [95% confidence interval: 1.3–3.3]). Attendance at parent groups where peers are breastfeeding infants of a similar age may have an important influence on the continuation of breastfeeding to 6 months. First-time parent groups or other similar groups may be an important setting in which to promote the continuation of breastfeeding.

What Factors Are Associated with Adolescents' School Break Time Physical Activity and Sedentary Time?

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 13-02-2013

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0056838

Family Structure and Children's Television Viewing and Physical Activity

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Date: 05-2006

DOI: 10.1249/01.MSS.0000218132.68268.F4

Challenges in conducting natural experiments in parks-lessons from the REVAMP study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 17-01-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-016-0460-0

What factors are associated with frequent unhealthy snack-food consumption among Australian secondary-school students?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 02-12-2014

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980014002675

Abstract: To examine demographic and behavioural correlates of unhealthy snack-food consumption among Australian secondary-school students and the association between their perceptions of availability, convenience and intake with consumption. Cross-sectional survey of students’ eating, physical activity and sedentary behaviours using validated instruments administered via an online questionnaire. Australian secondary schools across all states/territories. Secondary-school students aged 12–17 years participating in the 2009–10 National Secondary Students’ Diet and Activity (NaSSDA) survey ( n 12 188). Approximately one in five students (21 %) reported consuming unhealthy snack foods ≥14 times/week (‘frequent snackers’). After adjusting for all covariates, older students and those with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m 2 were less likely to be frequent snackers, while students who reported high fast-food and high sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and those who watched television for h/d were more likely to snack frequently. Furthermore, after adjusting for all covariates and demographic factors, students who agreed that snack foods are usually available at home, convenient to buy and that they eat too many snack foods were more likely to be snacking frequently. Conversely, students who agreed that fruit is a convenient snack were less likely to be frequent snackers. Frequent unhealthy snack-food consumption appears to cluster with other poor health behaviours. Perceptions of availability and convenience are factors most readily amenable to change, and findings suggest interventions should focus on decreasing the availability of unhealthy snack foods in the home and promoting healthier options such as fruit as convenient snacks.

Personal, social and environmental determinants of educational inequalities in walking: a multilevel study

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 02-2007

DOI: 10.1136/JECH.2006.048520

Health, Behavioral, Cognitive, and Social Correlates of Breakfast Skipping among Women Living in Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Neighborhoods

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2013

DOI: 10.3945/JN.113.181396

Abstract: Breakfast skipping is a potentially modifiable behavior that has negative effects on health and is socioeconomically patterned. This study aimed to examine the intrapersonal (health, behavioral, and cognitive) and social factors associated with breakfast skipping. Nonpregnant women (n = 4123) aged 18-45 y from socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods throughout Victoria, Australia, completed a postal questionnaire. Sociodemographic characteristics, diet, physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and cognitive and social factors were assessed by self-report. Breakfast skipping was defined in 2 ways: 1) "rarely/never" eating breakfast (n = 498) and 2) eating breakfast ≤2 d/wk (includes those who rarely/never ate breakfast n = 865). Poisson regression was used to calculate prevalence ratios and linear trends, adjusting for covariates. The P values for linear trends are reported below. Compared with breakfast consumers, women who reported rarely/never eating breakfast tended to have poorer self-rated health (P-trend < 0.001), be current smokers (P-trend < 0.001), pay less attention to health (P-trend < 0.001), not prioritize their own healthy eating when busy looking after their family (P-trend < 0.001), have less nutrition knowledge (P-trend < 0.001), and a lower proportion were trying to control their weight (P-trend < 0.020). When breakfast skipping was defined as eating breakfast ≤2 d/wk, additional associations were found for having lower leisure-time physical activity (P-trend = 0.012) and less self-efficacy for eating a healthy diet (P-trend < 0.043). In conclusion, a range of intrapersonal and social factors were significantly associated with breakfast skipping among women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. Acknowledging the cross-sectional design and need for causal confirmation, programs that aim to promote breakfast consumption in this population group should consider targeting family-related barriers to healthy eating and nutrition knowledge.

Are independent mobility and territorial range associated with park visitation among youth?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-11-73

Associations between dietary intakes of first-Time fathers and their 20-month-old children are moderated by fathers' BMI, education and age

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 18-08-2015

DOI: 10.1017/S0007114515002755

Abstract: Children’s learning about food is considerable during their formative years, with parental influence being pivotal. Research has focused predominantly on maternal influences, with little known about the relationships between fathers’ and children’s diets. Greater understanding of this relationship is necessary for the design of appropriate interventions. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between the diets of fathers and their children and the moderating effects of fathers’ BMI, education and age on these associations. The diets of fathers and their first-born children ( n 317) in the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program were assessed using an FFQ and 3×24-h recalls, respectively. The InFANT Program is a cluster-randomised controlled trial in the setting of first-time parents groups in Victoria, Australia. Associations between father and child fruit, vegetable, non-core food and non-core drink intakes were assessed using linear regression. The extent to which these associations were mediated by maternal intake was tested. Moderation of associations by paternal BMI, education and age was assessed. Positive associations were found between fathers’ and children’s intake of fruit, sweet snacks and take-away foods. Paternal BMI, education and age moderated the relationships found for the intakes of fruit (BMI), vegetables (age), savoury snacks (BMI and education) and take-away foods (BMI and education). Our findings suggest that associations exist at a young age and are moderated by paternal BMI, education and age. This study highlights the importance of fathers in modelling healthy diets for their children.

The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program follow-up

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.CCT.2012.10.008

Abstract: The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program, is a community-based, cluster-randomised controlled trial of an obesity prevention intervention delivered to first-time parents of infants from age 4-20 months. Conducted from 2008 to 2010, the program had high uptake and retention and showed positive impacts on some dietary outcomes and television viewing. Funding was secured for a follow-up study of participants two and 3.5 years post intervention (at child ages ~3.5 and 5 years). The follow-up study aims to assess intervention effects, mediators and moderators of effects, and program cost-effectiveness over the longer term. The 492 families still enrolled in the Melbourne InFANT Program at intervention conclusion will be recontacted and renewed consent sought to participate in this follow-up study. No further intervention will occur. Home visit data collections will occur approximately two and 3.5 years post intervention. Main outcomes to be assessed include child body mass index, waist circumference, diet (3 × 24-hour recalls food frequency questionnaire), physical activity (8 days ActiGraph accelerometer data parent reported active play) and sedentary time (8days ActiGraph accelerometer and ActivPAL inclinometer data parent reported screen time). Follow-up of participants of the Melbourne InFANT Program at two and 3.5 years post intervention will allow assessment of longer term intervention effects, investigation of potential mediators and moderators of such effects, and economic evaluation of the longer term outcomes. This information will be valuable to researchers and policy makers in progressing the field of early childhood obesity prevention.

Prevalence and socio-demographic distribution of eating, physical activity and sedentary behaviours among Australian adolescents

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1071/HE12213

Abstract: To examine the prevalence and socio-demographic distribution of adherence to national dietary and physical activity recommendations among Australian secondary school students. Cross-sectional survey of 12,188 students in Years 8 to 11 (aged 12-17 years). Students' self-reported eating, physical activity and sedentary behaviours were assessed using validated instruments administered via an online questionnaire. Less than one-quarter of students (24%) reported meeting the daily requirement of at least four serves of vegetables, while 41% reported consuming the recommended three or more daily serves of fruit. Just 15% of students reported engaging in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity every day, and only one in five students met the recommendation of spending no more than two hours per day in small screen recreation. Males were performing better than females in terms of fruit intake and physical activity, but worse in relation to frequency of consumption of sugary drinks and fast food, and time spent using electronic media. The proportion of students meeting fruit and vegetable recommendations declined with advancing year level, while lower socio-economic position (SEP) students were faring less well than those from high SEP neighbourhoods, particularly with regards to healthy eating. There is considerable scope for improving young people's health behaviours in line with national dietary and physical activity recommendations.

Are safety-related features of the road environment associated with smaller declines in physical activity among youth?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-2010

DOI: 10.1007/S11524-009-9402-3

The HAPPY Study: Development and reliability of a parent survey to assess correlates of preschool children's physical activity

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2011.12.009

Abstract: Correlates of preschool children's physical activity across all domains of the social ecological model have previously been reported in the literature. However, there is a scarcity of reliable instruments designed to capture such correlates in preschool-aged children. This study reports the development, and assessment of the test-retest and internal reliability of a comprehensive proxy survey instrument designed to measure correlates of preschool children's physical activity across the three domains of the social ecological model. Study one included data from 47 parents of preschool aged (3-5 years) children who completed the survey on two occasions. Study two included data from 943 participants who completed the survey as part of the larger Healthy Active Preschool Years Study. A comprehensive search of the literature and a series of focus groups were used to identify potential correlates for inclusion in the survey. Study one investigated the test-retest reliability of the survey study two investigated internal reliability. Test-retest reliability was assessed using Kappa statistics and percent agreement for categorical variables, and intraclass correlation for continuous variables. Internal reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha. In total, 230 items, summed and composite scores were assessed. Of those items, 190 (83%) showed acceptable reliability. The majority of items in each domain of the social ecological model--in idual (75%), social (81%) and physical environment (90%)--showed acceptable reliability. The Healthy Active Preschool Years parent proxy survey shows good reliability and is appropriate for use with the target population. Future studies should investigate validity of the constructs in the survey.

Sociodemographic and behavioural correlates of weight status among women with children living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-2009

DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2009.167

Abstract: To investigate sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics associated with weight status among women with children living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. A total of 1680 women aged 18-46 years, living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods with dependent children (aged 0-18 years), provided self-report data on height and weight and a range of sociodemographic and behavioural (for ex le, dietary intake, physical activity and time spent sitting) characteristics. Half of the women were classified as having a healthy weight (body mass index=18.5-25). Bivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses indicated that a healthy weight status was associated with a range of sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics. In a multivariable model, a healthy weight status among women was associated with being younger and unmarried, speaking a language other than English at home, having a medium or high level of education, and a partner with a high level of education, having a high household income, spending more time engaged in leisure-time physical activity and less time spent sitting, and having a lower consumption of soft drink. The present findings highlight that a considerable proportion of women with children living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods manage to maintain a healthy weight. Acknowledging the cross-sectional nature of this study, strategies aimed at helping women with children in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas to maintain their weight should focus on increasing physical activity, and reducing sitting time and soft drink consumption.

Parental chauffeurs: what drives their transport choice?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2000

DOI: 10.1016/J.JTRANGEO.2012.08.017

How does perceived risk mediate associations between perceived safety and parental restriction of adolescents' physical activity in their neighborhood?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-9-57

Who complies with the australian dietary guidelines?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 1986

DOI: 10.1016/S0271-5317(86)80196-8

Preschool and childcare center characteristics associated with children’s physical activity during care hours: an observational study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 11-11-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-016-0444-0

Public views of the benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-2006

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.EJCN.1602387

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine consumers' perceived benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet. Mail survey that included questions on perceived benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet. Victoria, Australia. Four hundred and fifteen randomly selected Victorian adults. The main perceived barrier to adoption of a plant-based diet was a lack of information about plant-based diets (42% agreement). Sex, age and education differences were present in over a quarter of the barrier items. For ex le, non-university-educated respondents and older people were less willing to change their current eating pattern than were university educated and younger respondents. The main benefits associated with plant-based diets were health benefits, particularly decreased saturated fat intake (79% agreement), increased fibre intake (76%), and disease prevention (70%). Age, sex and education differences with regard to benefits were apparent, although sex differences were more important than age or education differences. The majority of respondents perceived there to be health benefits associated with the consumption of a plant-based diet. Compared with the proportion of respondents who agreed that there were particular benefits of eating a plant-based diet, perceived barriers were relatively low. An understanding of the perceived benefits and barriers of consuming a plant-based diet will help formulate strategies that aim to influence beliefs about plant foods, plant food consumption, and, ultimately, public health.

Diet, food beliefs and dietary supplementation

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 02-1987

DOI: 10.1080/03670244.1987.9990971

Effectiveness of interventions to promote physical activity among socioeconomically disadvantaged women: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 29-10-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1467-789X.2012.01058.X

A qualitative study of the drivers of socioeconomic inequalities in men's eating behaviours 11 Medical and Health Sciences 1117 Public Health and Health Services 17 Psychology and Cognitive Sciences 1701 Psychology

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-11-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S12889-018-6162-6

Parental concerns about childhood obesity and the strategies employed to prevent unhealthy weight gain in children

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 10-2006

DOI: 10.1017/PHN2005917

Abstract: To describe parental concerns about their child's weight, to determine the proportion of parents taking preventive action to avoid obesity in their children and the predictors of taking preventive action, and to describe the strategies adopted by parents. A cross-sectional survey was conducted. Children's heights and weights were measured, and parents completed a questionnaire that included measures of their own weight status, perceptions of their child's weight, concerns about their child's current weight and future weight as an adolescent and adult, and the strategies used to prevent obesity. The study was conducted in Melbourne, Australia. A total of 291 families of children aged 5–6 years and 919 families of children aged 10–12 years participated. Eighty-nine per cent of parents of overweight 5–6-year-olds and 63% of parents of overweight 10–12-year-olds were unaware their child was overweight. Seventy-one per cent of parents of overweight 5–6-year-olds and 43% of parents of overweight 10–12-year-olds were not concerned about their child's current weight. Although 31% of parents of 5–6-year-olds and 43% of parents of 10–12-year-olds were taking action to prevent unhealthy weight gain in their children, less-educated parents were less likely to do so. Public health programmes are required to raise parental recognition of childhood overweight and of related risk behaviours, and to provide parents with practical strategies to prevent unhealthy weight gain in their children.

Change in women's body mass index and waist circumference, 1997 to 2002: The Nepean Study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2005

DOI: 10.1111/J.1467-842X.2005.TB00071.X

Abstract: To investigate characteristics associated with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference stability over a five-year period in women with school-age children. Women with 7-8 year-old children from western Sydney, Australia, had anthropometric measures taken in 1996/97 (n=436) and five years later (n=327). Socio-demographic characteristics examined at baseline included age, socioeconomic status, smoking, and number of children. Over five years, less than half of the women maintained a stable BMI (38.8%) or waist circumference (31.5%), with the majority gaining in both indicators of adiposity. BMI and socio-demographic characteristics were not predictive of BMI or waist circumference stability or decrease. Total and abdominal adiposity increased in these Australian women who have children. The results support the need to develop effective weight gain prevention initiatives.

The extended Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT Extend) Program: a cluster-randomized controlled trial of an early intervention to prevent childhood obesity

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 18-02-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12889-016-2836-0

Australian consumers' views towards an environmentally sustainable eating pattern

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 15-05-2018

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980018001192

Abstract: The present qualitative study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of participants’ attitudes, knowledge, perceived effectiveness (a person’s belief that his/her behaviour can contribute to environmental preservation) and behaviours relating to a sustainable eating pattern. One-to-one interviews (either face-to-face or by telephone) were conducted following a structured interview schedule, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using inductive thematic analysis in NVivo 10. Victorian (Australia) adult participants recruited via online advertisements, flyers on community advertisement boards and letterbox drops. Twenty-four participants (mean age 40 years, range 19–69 years thirteen female, eleven male) were interviewed. Participants reported that environmental impact was not an important influence on their food choice. Participants displayed limited knowledge about a sustainable eating pattern, with most unaware of the environmental impact of food-related behaviours. Most participants believed sustainable eating would be only slightly beneficial to the environment. Participants reported undertaking limited sustainable food behaviours currently and were more willing to undertake a food behaviour if they perceived additional benefits, such as promoting health or supporting the local community. The study suggests consumers need further information about a sustainable eating pattern and the environmental impact of food choice. The findings highlight some of the barriers that will need to be addressed when promoting this kind of eating pattern and that a range of interventions will be necessary.

Adolescent television viewing and unhealthy snack food consumption: the mediating role of home availability of unhealthy snack foods

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 30-11-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980012005204

Fathers’ perspectives on the diets and physical activity behaviours of their young children

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 12-06-2017

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0179210

Maternal dietary intake and physical activity habits during the postpartum period: associations with clinician advice in a sample of Australian first time mothers

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12884-016-0812-4

Love thy neighbour? Associations of social capital and crime with physical activity amongst women

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2010.04.041

Abstract: Using a multilevel study design, this study examined the associations between social characteristics of in iduals and neighbourhoods and physical activity among women. Women (n = 1405) recruited from 45 Melbourne (Australia) neighbourhoods of varying socioeconomic disadvantage provided data on social factors and leisure-time: physical activity walking and walking in one's own neighbourhood. In idual level social factors were number of neighbours known and social participation. Neighbourhood-level social characteristics (interpersonal trust, norms of reciprocity, social cohesion) were derived by aggregating survey data on these constructs within neighbourhoods. Objective data on crimes within neighbourhoods were obtained from Victoria Police. In bivariable regression models, all social variables at both the in idual and neighbourhood level were positively associated with odds of physical activity, walking, and walking in one's own neighbourhood. Associations with in idual social participation (associated with all three physical activity variables) and neighbourhood interpersonal trust (associated with overall physical activity only) remained significant in multivariable models. Neither neighbourhood crime against the person nor incivilities were associated with any form of physical activity. These results demonstrate that women who participated in local groups or events and, less consistently, women living in neighbourhoods where residents trusted one another, were more likely to participate in leisure-time physical activity. While redressing macro-level social and economic policies that contribute to neighbourhood inequalities remains a priority, public health initiatives aimed at promoting physical activity could consider focusing on fostering social interactions targeting both in iduals and communities. Further investigation of causal mechanisms underlying these associations is required.

The longitudinal influence of home and neighbourhood environments on children's body mass index and physical activity over 5 years: the CLAN study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 30-03-2010

DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2010.57

Abstract: To determine the independent contributions of family and neighbourhood environments to changes in youth physical activity and body mass index (BMI) z-score over 5 years. In 2001, 2004 and 2006, 301 children (10-12 years at baseline) had their height and weight measured (BMI was converted to z-scores using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reference charts see rowthcharts) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) assessed using accelerometers. In 2001, parents reported on the home environment (social support, role modelling, rules and restrictions, physical environment) and perceived neighbourhood environment (local traffic, road safety, sporting venues, public transport), and Geographic Information Systems were used to map features of the neighbourhood environment (destinations, road connectivity, traffic exposure). Generalized estimating equations were used to predict average BMI z-score and MVPA over time from baseline home and perceived and objective neighbourhood environment factors. Among boys, maternal education and heavy traffic were inversely associated, and sibling physical activity, maternal role modelling of MVPA and the presence of dead-end roads were positively associated with MVPA. Having unmarried parents, maternal MVPA role modelling and number of home sedentary items were positively associated with BMI z-score among boys. Among girls, having siblings, paternal MVPA role modelling, physical activity rules and parental physical activity co-participation were positively associated with MVPA. Having unmarried parents and maternal sedentary behaviour role modelling were positively associated, and number of sedentary behaviour rules and physical activity items were inversely associated with BMI z-score among girls. The home environment seems more important than the neighbourhood environment in influencing children's physical activity and BMI z-score over 5 years. Physical activity and weight gain programmes among youth should focus on parental role modelling, rules around sedentary and active pursuits, and parental support for physical activity. Intervention studies to investigate these strategies are warranted.

Physical activity and sedentary behavior: A population-based study of barriers, enjoyment, and preference

Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)

Date: 2003

DOI: 10.1037/0278-6133.22.2.178

ShopSmart 4 Health – Protocol of a skills-based randomised controlled trial promoting fruit and vegetable consumption among socioeconomically disadvantaged women

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-05-2013

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-466

Association between food marketing exposure and adolescents' food choices and eating behaviors

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2011.09.020

Abstract: The present study examined associations between food marketing exposure and adolescents' food choices and reported consumption of energy-dense and nutrient-poor (EDNP) foods. A cross-sectional survey of 12,188 Australian secondary students aged 12-17 years was conducted, using a web-based self-report questionnaire. Measures included students' level of exposure to commercial television and non-broadcast types of food marketing, whether they had tried a new product or requested a product they had seen advertised, and their reported consumption of fast food, sugary drinks and sweet and salty snacks. Results indicated greater exposure to commercial television, print/transport/school food marketing and digital food marketing were all independently associated with students' food choices. High commercial television viewers (>2h/day) were more likely to report higher consumption of EDNP foods (ORs ranged from 1.31 for fast food to 1.91 for sweet snacks). Some associations between digital food marketing exposure and students' eating behaviors were found however, print/transport/school food marketing was only related to sweet snack consumption. These study results suggest that cumulative exposure to television food advertising and other food marketing sources are positively linked to adolescents' food choices and eating behaviors. Policy changes to restrict food marketing to young people should include both television and non-broadcast media.

Associations Between Parental Concern for Adolescent Weight and the Home Food Environment and Dietary Intake

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.JNEB.2008.11.004

Abstract: Examine associations between parental concern about adolescent weight and adolescent perceptions of their dietary intake, home food availability, family mealtime environment, and parents' feeding practices. Cross-sectional study. Adolescents, aged 12-15 years from 37 secondary schools in Victoria, Australia, and their parents completed surveys in 2004-2005. 1,448 adolescent-parent pairs. Parental concern about adolescent weight adolescent perceptions of their food intake and home food environment. Chi-square tests, exploratory factor analysis, independent t tests (P < .01). Although 12% of parents perceived their adolescent as overweight, 27% were concerned about their adolescent's weight (under- or overweight). Adolescents of concerned parents reported lower intakes of energy-dense snacks and less home availability of these food items, and they perceived that their parents less often listened to and considered their food preferences when shopping and cooking, than did adolescents of unconcerned parents. Concerned parents were no more likely to provide fruits and vegetables in the home or a positive family mealtime environment than unconcerned parents, at least as reported by their adolescents. Parental concern about adolescent weight was associated with lower intakes of energy-dense snacks among adolescents, less home availability of these food items, and less supportive parental feeding practices. Parents should be encouraged to listen to and consider their adolescents' food preferences, and provide supportive family mealtime environments and healthful food in the home.

Who does not gain weight? Prevalence and predictors of weight maintenance in young women

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-2002

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0802150

Abstract: To investigate the prevalence and predictors of weight maintenance over time in a large s le of young Australian women. This population study examined baseline and 4 y follow-up data from the cohort of young women participating in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. A total of 8726 young women aged 18-23 y at baseline. Height, weight and body mass index (BMI) physical activity time spent sitting selected eating behaviours (eg dieting, disordered eating, takeaway food consumption) cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption parity and sociodemographic characteristics. Only 44% of the women reported their BMI at follow-up to be within 5% of their baseline BMI (maintainers) 41% had gained weight and 15% had lost weight. Weight maintainers were more likely to be in managerial or professional occupations to have never married to be currently studying and not to be mothers. Controlling for sociodemographic factors, weight maintainers were more likely to be in a healthy weight range at baseline, and to report that they spent less time sitting, and consumed less takeaway food, than women who gained weight. Fewer than half the young women in this community s le maintained their weight over this 4 y period in their early twenties. Findings of widespread weight gain, particularly among those already overweight, suggest that early adulthood, which is a time of significant life changes for many women, may be an important time for implementing strategies to promote maintenance of healthy weight. Strategies which encourage decreased sitting time and less takeaway food consumption may be effective for encouraging weight maintenance at this life stage.

Association between maternal education and diet of children at 9 months is partially explained by mothers' diet

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 08-04-2015

DOI: 10.1111/MCN.12031

Long-term outcomes (2 and 3.5 years post-intervention) of the INFANT early childhood intervention to improve health behaviors and reduce obesity: cluster randomised controlled trial follow-up

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-07-2020

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-020-00994-9

Abstract: The few health behavior interventions commencing in infancy have shown promising effects. Greater insight into their longer-term benefits is required. This study aimed to assess post-intervention effects of the Melbourne INFANT Program to child age 5y on diet, movement and adiposity. Two and 3.5y post-intervention follow-up (2011–13 analyses completed 2019) of participants retained in the Melbourne INFANT Program at its conclusion (child age ~ 19 m 2008–10) was conducted. The Melbourne INFANT Program is a 15-month, six session program delivered within first-time parent groups in Melbourne, Australia, between child age 4-19 m. It involves strategies to help parents promote healthy diet, physical activity and reduced sedentary behavior in their infants. No intervention was delivered during the follow-up period reported in this paper. At all time points height, weight and waist circumference were measured by researchers, children wore Actigraph and activPAL accelerometers for 8-days, mothers reported children’s television viewing and use of health services. Children’s dietary intake was reported by mothers in three unscheduled telephone-administered 24-h recalls. Of those retained at program conclusion (child age 18 m, n = 480 89%), 361 families (75% retention) participated in the first follow-up (2y post-intervention age 3.6y) and 337 (70% retention) in the second follow-up (3.5y post-intervention age 5y). At 3.6y children in the intervention group had higher fruit (adjusted mean difference [MD] = 25.34 g CI 95 :1.68,48.99), vegetable (MD = 19.41 CI 95 :3.15,35.67) and water intake (MD = 113.33 CI 95 :40.42,186.25), than controls. At 5y they consumed less non-core drinks (MD = -27.60 CI 95 :-54.58,-0.62). Sweet snack intake was lower for intervention children at both 3.6y (MD = -5.70 CI 95 :-9.75,-1.65) and 5y (MD = -6.84 CI 95 :-12.47,-1.21). Intervention group children viewed approximately 10 min/day less television than controls at both follow-ups, although the confidence intervals spanned zero (MD = -9.63 CI 95 :-30.79,11.53 MD = -11.34 CI 95 :-25.02,2.34, respectively). There was no evidence for effect on zBMI, waist circumference z-score or physical activity. The impact of this low-dose intervention delivered during infancy was still evident up to school commencement age for several targeted health behaviors but not adiposity. Some of these effects were only observed after the conclusion of the intervention, demonstrating the importance of long-term follow-up of interventions delivered during early childhood. ISRCTN Register ISRCTN81847050 , registered 7th November 2007.

Proportion of infants meeting the Australian 24-hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years: data from the Melbourne InFANT Program

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 11-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12889-017-4856-9

Outcomes of a group-randomized trial to prevent excess weight gain, reduce screen behaviours and promote physical activity in 10-year-old children: Switch-Play

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 05-02-2008

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0803805

Abstract: To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention to prevent excess weight gain, reduce time spent in screen behaviours, promote participation in and enjoyment of physical activity (PA), and improve fundamental movement skills among children. In 2002, 311 children (78% response 49% boys), average age 10 years 8 months, were recruited from three government schools in low socioeconomic areas of Melbourne, Australia. Group-randomized controlled trial. Children were randomized by class to one of the four conditions: a behavioural modification group (BM n=66) a fundamental movement skills group (FMS n=74) a combined BM/FMS group (BM/FMS n=93) and a control (usual curriculum) group (n=62). Data were collected at baseline, post intervention, 6- and 12-month follow-up periods. BMI data were available for 295 children at baseline and 268 at 12-month follow-up. After adjusting for food intake and PA, there was a significant intervention effect from baseline to post intervention on age- and sex-adjusted BMI in the BM/FMS group compared with controls (-1.88 kg m(-2), P<0.01), which was maintained at 6- and 12-month follow-up periods (-1.53 kg m(-2), P<0.05). Children in the BM/FMS group were less likely than controls to be overweight/obese between baseline and post intervention (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=0.36, P<0.05) also maintained at 12-month follow-up (AOR=0.38, P<0.05). Compared with controls, FMS group children recorded higher levels and greater enjoyment of PA and BM children recorded higher levels of PA and TV viewing across all four time points. Gender moderated the intervention effects for participation in and enjoyment of PA, and fundamental movement skills. This programme represents a promising approach to preventing excess weight gain and promoting participation in and enjoyment of PA. Examination of the mediators of this intervention and further tailoring of the programme to suit both genders is required.

Clustering of Obesity-Related Risk Behaviors in Children and Their Mothers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.ANNEPIDEM.2010.11.001

Abstract: To examine the clustering and patterns of obesity-related behaviors in children and their mothers and the concordance between mother and child pairs. Primary school-aged children and their mothers in Victoria, Australia, participated (data from 549 mothers, 352 children, and 304 mother/child pairs). Examination of behavior patterns included 1) assessment of the overlap in national physical activity, screen-time, and fruit and vegetable consumption guidelines being met and 2) cluster analysis of positive (consumption of fruits and vegetables) and negative (consumption of energy dense food/drink) dietary behaviors, sedentary behavior/screen-time, and physical activity. Only partial overlap was observed between groups meeting national recommendations for sedentary behavior and consumption of fruit and vegetables and energy-dense food. Less than 40% of mothers and children were meeting sedentary behavior guidelines. In both mothers and children five clusters were identified. With the exception of a single cluster in children with high levels of physical activity, clusters of healthy and unhealthy behavior were concordant in mothers and their children (p < .0001), particularly those defined by sedentary behaviors and consumption of energy-dense food/drink. Complex patterns of obesity-related behaviors exist in children and their mothers. The concordance of clusters between children and their mothers suggests that modeling of sedentary behavior and creation of a child's eating environment by parents may be particularly important influences on children's behavior.

Eating Behaviours and the Food Environment

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-07-2010

DOI: 10.1002/9781118786611.CH10

Effects of nutrient content claims, sports celebrity endorsements and premium offers on pre‐adolescent children's food preferences: experimental research

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 29-04-2013

DOI: 10.1111/J.2047-6310.2013.00169.X

Abstract: To assess pre-adolescent children's responses to common child-oriented front-of-pack food promotions. Between-subjects, web-based experiment with four front-of-pack promotion conditions on energy-dense and nutrient-poor (EDNP) foods: no promotion [control] nutrient content claims sports celebrity endorsements (male athletes) and premium offers. Participants were 1302 grade 5 and 6 children (mean age 11 years) from Melbourne, Australia. Participants chose their preferred product from a randomly assigned EDNP food pack and comparable healthier food pack then completed detailed product ratings. Child-oriented pack designs with colourful, cartooned graphics, fonts and promotions were used. Compared to the control condition, children were more likely to choose EDNP products featuring nutrient content claims (both genders) and sports celebrity endorsements (boys only). Perceptions of nutritional content were enhanced by nutrient content claims. Effects of promotions on some product ratings (but not choice) were negated when children referred to the nutrition information panel. Premium offers did not enhance children's product ratings or choice. Nutrient content claims and sports celebrity endorsements influence pre-adolescent children's preferences towards EDNP food products displaying them. Policy interventions to reduce the impact of unhealthy food marketing to children should limit the use of these promotions.

Associations between fruit and vegetable intake, leisure-time physical activity, sitting time and self-rated health among older adults: cross-sectional data from the WELL study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-07-2012

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-551

Abstract: Lifestyle behaviours, such as healthy diet, physical activity and sedentary behaviour, are key elements of healthy ageing and important modifiable risk factors in the prevention of chronic diseases. Little is known about the relationship between these behaviours in older adults. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between fruit and vegetable (F& V) intake, leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and sitting time (ST), and their association with self-rated health in older adults. This cross-sectional study comprised 3,644 older adults (48% men) aged 55–65 years, who participated in the Wellbeing, Eating and Exercise for a Long Life (“WELL”) study. Respondents completed a postal survey about their health and their eating and physical activity behaviours in 2010 (38% response rate). Spearman’s coefficient (rho) was used to evaluate the relationship between F& V intake, LTPA and ST. Their in idual and shared associations with self-rated health were examined using ordinal logistic regression models, stratified by sex and adjusted for confounders (BMI, smoking, long-term illness and socio-demographic characteristics). The correlations between F& V intake, LTPA and ST were low. F& V intake and LTPA were positively associated with self-rated health. Each additional serving of F& V or MET-hour of LTPA were associated with approximately 10% higher likelihood of reporting health as good or better among women and men. The association between ST and self-rated health was not significant in the multivariate analysis. A significant interaction was found (ST*F& V intake). The effect of F& V intake on self-rated health increased with increasing ST in women, whereas the effect decreased with increasing ST in men. This study contributes to the scarce literature related to lifestyle behaviours and their association with health indicators among older adults. The findings suggest that a modest increase in F& V intake, or LTPA could have a marked effect on the health of older adults. Further research is needed to fully understand the correlates and determinants of lifestyle behaviours, particularly sitting time, in this age group.

Factors associated with frequent consumption of fast food among Australian secondary school students

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 16-03-2020

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980019004208

Abstract: To examine demographic and behavioural correlates of frequent consumption of fast food among Australian secondary school students and explore the associations between fast food consumption and social/environmental factors. Cross-sectional survey using a web-based self-report questionnaire. Secondary schools across all Australian states and territories. Students aged 12–17 years participating in the 2012–2013 National Secondary Students’ Diet and Activity survey ( n 8392). Overall, 38 % of students surveyed reported consuming fast food at least weekly. Being male, residing in lower socio-economic areas and metropolitan locations, having more weekly spending money and working at a fast food outlet were all independently associated with consuming fast food once a week or more, as were several unhealthy eating (low vegetable intake and high sugary drink and snack food intake) and leisure (low physical activity and higher commercial television viewing) behaviours and short sleep duration. Frequent fast food consumption and measured weight status were unrelated. Students who agreed they go to fast food outlets with their family and friends were more likely to report consuming fast food at least weekly, as were those who usually ‘upsize’ their fast food meals and believe fast food is good value for money. These results suggest that frequent fast food consumption clusters with other unhealthy behaviours. Policy and educational interventions that reach identified at-risk groups are needed to reduce adolescent fast food consumption at the population level. Policies placing restrictions on the portion sizes of fast food may also help adolescents limit their intake.

Urban area disadvantage and physical activity: a multilevel study in Melbourne, Austra

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 11-2005

DOI: 10.1136/JECH.2005.035931

Patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in preschool children

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-9-138

A Health Promotion Intervention Can Affect Diet Quality in Early Childhood

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2013

DOI: 10.3945/JN.113.177931

Abstract: Initiatives to promote children's nutrition and prevent childhood obesity are vital. Dietary patterns are a useful way to characterize whole diets, though no previous early childhood health promotion trial to our knowledge has assessed intervention impact using this approach. This research aimed to assess the effect of a healthy eating and physical activity intervention on young children's dietary patterns. The Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial Program was a health promotion, cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 542 families. Child diets were assessed by multiple 24-h recalls postintervention at ~18 mo of age. An Obesity Protective Dietary Index (OPDI) was created and dietary patterns were also assessed by principal components analysis (PCA). These outcomes were used to compare intervention and control participants to test the effectiveness of the intervention. Children in the intervention arm scored higher (15.6 ± 5.9) than those in the control arm (14.5 ± 6.7) for the OPDI (scores out of 30, P = 0.01). Three dietary patterns were identified by PCA however, the scores did not substantially differ between the intervention and control arms. In conclusion, this paper presents novel results in both the evaluation of an early childhood health promotion intervention and the assessment of child dietary patterns. The results highlight the capacity for such an initiative to improve child diets and the need for further research in this area.

Correlates of Preschool Children's Physical Activity

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2012.04.020

Abstract: Physical activity is important for children's health, and identifying factors associated with their physical activity is important for future interventions and public health programs. This study sought to identify multidimensional correlates of preschool children's physical activity. The social-ecological model (SEM) was used to identify constructs potentially associated with preschool children's physical activity. Data were collected from 1004 preschool children, aged 3-5 years, and parents in 2008-2009, and analyzed in 2010-2011. Physical activity was measured over 8 days using ActiGraph accelerometers. Parents completed a comprehensive survey. Generalized linear modeling was used to assess associations between potential correlates and percentage of time spent in physical activity. Correlates of physical activity were found across all the domains of the SEM and varied between boys and girls and week and weekend days. Age was the only consistent correlate, with children spending approximately 10% less time in physical activity for each advancing year of age. Some modifiable correlates that were related to more than one physical activity outcome were rules restricting rough games inside and usual daily sleep time for boys. For girls, a preference to play inside/draw/do crafts rather than be active, and child constraints, was associated with more than one of the physical activity outcomes. A novel finding in this study is the counterintuitive association between parental rules restricting rough games inside and boys' higher physical activity participation levels. Potential strategies for promoting children's physical activity should seek to influence children's preference for physical activity and parent rules. Gender-specific strategies also may be warranted.

Is greater variety of chocolates and confectionery in supermarkets associated with more consumption?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2011

DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2011.00706.X

Are perceptions of the physical and social environment associated with mothers' walking for leisure and for transport? A longitudinal study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2008.05.010

Abstract: The role local neighbourhood environments play in influencing purpose-specific walking behaviors has not been well-explored in prospective studies. This study aimed to cross-sectionally and prospectively examine whether local physical and social environments were associated with mothers' walking for leisure and for transport. In 2004, 357 mothers from Melbourne, Australia, provided information on their local physical and social neighbourhood environments, and in 2004 and 2006 reported weekly time spent walking for leisure and for transport. Environmental predictors of high levels of walking and increases in walking were examined using log binomial regression. Public transport accessibility and trusting many people in the neighbourhood were predictive of increases in walking for leisure, while connectivity, pedestrian crossings, a local traffic speed were predictive of increases in transport-related walking. Satisfaction with local facilities was associated with increasing both types of walking, and the social environment was important for maintaining high levels of both leisure- and transport-related walking. The findings provide evidence of a longitudinal relationship between physical and social environments and walking behaviors amongst mothers. Enhancing satisfaction with local facilities and giving consideration to 'walkability', safety and public transport accessibility during environment planning processes may help mothers to increase walking.

What helps children to move more at school recess and lunchtime? Mid-Intervention results from Transform-Us! Cluster-randomised controlled trial

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 11-10-2014

DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2013-092466

Abstract: To investigate the interpersonal and physical environment mediators of the Transform-Us! mid-intervention effects on physical activity (PA) during recess and lunchtime. Transform-Us! is a clustered randomised school-based intervention with four groups: sedentary behaviour intervention (SB-I), PA intervention (PA-I), combined PA+SB-I and control group. All children in grade 3 from 20 participating primary schools in Melbourne, Australia were eligible to complete annual evaluation assessments. The outcomes were the proportion of time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and light PA (LPA) during recess and lunchtime assessed by accelerometers. Potential mediators included: perceived social support from teachers perceived availability of line markings perceived accessibility of sports equipment and perceived school play environment. Generalised linear models were used and mediation effects were estimated by product-of-coefficients (a·b) approach. 268 children (8.2 years, 57% girls at baseline) provided complete data at both time points. A significant intervention effect on MVPA during recess in the SB-I and PA-I groups compared with the control group (proportional difference in MVPA time 38% (95% CI 21% to 57%) and 40% (95% CI 20% to 62%), respectively) was found. The perceived school play environment was significantly positively associated with MVPA at recess among girls. An increase in perceived social support from teachers suppressed the PA+SB-I effect on light PA during recess (a·b= -0.03, 95% CI -0.06 to -0.00). No significant mediating effects on PA during recess and lunchtime were observed. A positive perception of the school play environment was associated with higher MVPA during recess among girls. Future studies should conduct mediation analyses to explore underlying mechanisms of PA interventions.

Park Improvements and Park Activity

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2012.02.015

Abstract: Parks are an important setting for leisure-time physical activity. Understanding how to attract residents to parks and encourage park users to be physically active is an important public health initiative. Natural experiments are a research priority for investigating whether changes to the physical environment affect physical activity however, natural experiments involving parks have rarely been conducted. This natural experiment examined whether improvements to a park in Victoria, Australia, increased its use and park-based physical activity of users. Observational data were collected on park use and park-based activity among park users at the intervention park and a control park at three time points baseline (T1, August 2009) post-improvement (T2, March 2010) and 12 months after baseline (T3, August 2010). At each time point, observations were undertaken during three 1.5-hour periods each day on 9 days. Analyses were conducted in 2011. In the intervention park, there were significant increases from pre- to post-improvement in the number of park users (T1=235, T3=985) and the number of people observed walking (T1=155, T3=369) and being vigorously active (T1=38, T3=257). At the control park, counts of usage decreased over the same period and no differences in walking or vigorous activity were observed. Improving the features of a local neighborhood park may lead to increased usage and physical activity.

Neighbourhood physical activity environments and adiposity in children and mothers: a three-year longitudinal study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-02-2010

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-7-18

Abstract: Although neighbourhood environments are often blamed for contributing to rising levels of obesity, current evidence is based predominantly on cross-sectional s les. This study examined associations between objectively-measured environmental characteristics of neighbourhoods and adiposity cross-sectionally and longitudinally over three years in children and their female carers. Longitudinal study of 140 5-6 year-old and 269 10-12 year-old children and their female carers (n = 369). At baseline (2001) and follow-up (2004), height and weight were measured among children and self-reported among female carers, and were used to compute BMI z-scores and BMI, respectively. A Geographic Information System determined access to destinations (public open spaces, sports options, walking/cycling tracks), road connectivity (density of cul-de-sacs and intersections, proportion of 4-way intersections, length of 'access' paths (overpasses, access lanes, throughways between buildings)) and traffic exposure (length of 'busy' and 'local' roads) within 800 m and 2 km of home. Univariate and multivariable linear regression analyses examined associations between environmental characteristics and BMI/BMI z-scores at baseline and change in BMI/BMI z-scores over the three years. Cross-sectionally, BMI z-score was inversely associated with length (km) of access paths within 800 m (b = -0.50) and 2 km (b = -0.16) among younger and number of sport/recreation public open spaces (b = -0.14) and length (km) of 'access' paths (b = -0.94) within 800 m and length of local roads within 2 km (b = -0.01) among older children. Among female carers, BMI was associated with length (km) of walking/cycling tracks (b = 0.17) and busy roads (b = -0.34) within 800 m. Longitudinally, the proportion of intersections that were 4-way (b = -0.01) within 800 m of home was negatively associated with change in BMI z-score among younger children, while length (km) of access paths (b = 0.18) within 800 m was significant among older children. Among female carers, options for aerobics/fitness and swimming within 2 km were associated with change in BMI (B = -0.42). A small number of neighbourhood environment features were associated with adiposity outcomes. These differed by age group and neighbourhood scale (800 m and 2 km) and were inconsistent between cross-sectional and longitudinal findings. However, the results suggest that improvements to road connectivity and slowing traffic and provision of facilities for leisure activities popular among women may support obesity prevention efforts.

Systematic review of lifestyle interventions to limit postpartum weight retention: implications for future opportunities to prevent maternal overweight and obesity following childbirth

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 17-06-2013

DOI: 10.1111/OBR.12053

Abstract: Postpartum weight retention can predict future weight gain and long-term obesity. Moreover, failure to lose weight gained during pregnancy can lead to increased body mass index for subsequent pregnancies, increasing the risk of adverse maternal and foetal pregnancy outcomes. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions aimed at reducing postpartum weight retention. Seven electronic databases were searched for intervention studies and trials enrolling women with singleton pregnancies and published in English from January 1990 to October 2012. Studies were included when postpartum weight was a main outcome and when diet and/or exercise and/or weight monitoring were intervention components. No limitations were placed on age, body mass index or parity. Eleven studies were identified as eligible for inclusion in this review, of which 10 were randomized controlled trials. Seven studies were successful in decreasing postpartum weight retention, six of which included both dietary and physical activity components, incorporated via a range of methods and delivered by a variety of health practitioners. Few studies utilized modern technologies as alternatives to traditional face-to-face support and cost-effectiveness was not assessed in any of the studies. These results suggest that postpartum weight loss is achievable, which may form an important component of obesity prevention in mothers however, the optimal setting, delivery, intervention length and recruitment approach remains unclear.

Controlled Heroin Availability in Australia? How and to what End?

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 1995

DOI: 10.3109/10826089509055823

Abstract: The general public, police, service providers, and users/ex-users were asked their views about options for trial design and trial outcomes with regard to a proposal for experimental controlled heroin availability. There was substantial agreement between the s les on issues concerning trial design. In general, the s les from the community, service providers and users/ex-users were more likely to report that a trial would result in positive outcomes, whereas the police s le was more likely to report that a trial would result in negative outcomes. This study illustrates the value of systematic consultation of key groups in exploring the options for change, raising potential difficulties, and highlighting different interests.

Environmental correlates of physical activity in Australian workplaces

Publisher: Emerald

Date: 30-03-2010

DOI: 10.1108/17538351011031911

Australian parents' views on their 5-6-year-old children's food choices

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 03-2007

DOI: 10.1093/HEAPRO/DAL035

Abstract: The home food environment is central to the development of healthy eating behaviours, but associations between the home food environment and children's food choices are not yet fully understood. The aims of this study were to explore parents' views regarding factors that influence children's food choices and parents' decision-making regarding the food they provide to their children. In-depth one-on-one interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview schedule. Key concepts and themes were coded independently by two investigators. Participants include seventeen parents (16 mothers and 1 father) of children in their first year of formal schooling (aged 5-6 years). Five main themes emerged from the interviews: food marketing, food availability/food exposure, feeding strategies, modelling of eating and opportunities for food involvement. Parents believed that food marketing influenced their child's food preferences but differed in the ways they managed these influences. The food made available to children was also seen to influence what a child ate. Yet, although some parents believed it was the parents' role to determine what foods were made available to their child, others offered food on the basis of the child's tastes or preferences. The use of food as a reward was a feeding strategy employed by many parents. Family mealtimes were seen as an important opportunity for modelling of eating behaviour by parents. Peers were also seen to influence children's food preferences and eating behaviour. Finally, many parents believed that involving children in the preparation of food had a positive impact on children's food choices. Associations between the home food environment and children's food choices are complex and involve multiple mediators. Parents' views on the promoters and reinforcers of their decision-making regarding food and their child's food choices provide useful insights into these mediating factors. Increased understanding of these relationships is likely to enhance obesity prevention efforts.

Erratum

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 05-2007

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980007731725

A comparison of the dietary patterns derived by principal component analysis and cluster analysis in older Australians

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-02-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-016-0353-2

Associations between social ecological factors and self-reported short physical activity breaks during work hours among desk-based employees

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2011.05.015

Abstract: To examine the associations between potential social ecological correlates and self-reported short physical activity breaks during work hours (defined as any interruption in sitting time during a typical work hour) among a s le of employees who commonly sit for working tasks. 801 employed adults aged 18-70 years from metropolitan Melbourne, Australia were surveyed in 2009 about their short physical activity breaks from sitting during work hours and potential social ecological correlates of this behaviour. Men reported significantly more short physical activity breaks per work hour than did women (2.5 vs. 2.3 breaks/h, p=0.02). A multivariable linear regression analysis adjusting for clustering and meeting the public health physical activity recommendations showed that the factors associated with frequency of short physical activity breaks per work hour were perceptions of lack of time for short physical activity breaks for men (-0.31 breaks/h, 95% confidence intervals [CI] -0.52, -0.09) and lack of information about taking short physical activity breaks for women (-0.20 breaks/h, CI -0.47, -0.05). These findings suggest that providing male employees with support for short physical activity breaks during work hours, and female employees with information on benefits of this behaviour may be useful for reducing workplace sedentary time.

Optimising women's diets. An examination of factors that promote healthy eating and reduce the likelihood of unhealthy eating

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2012.03.014

Abstract: The majority of nutrition promotion research that has examined the determinants of unhealthy or healthy dietary behaviours has focused on factors that promote consumption of these foods, rather than factors that may both promote healthy eating and buffer or protect consumption of unhealthy foods. The purpose of this paper is to identify factors that both promote healthy eating and also reduce the likelihood of eating unhealthily amongst women. A community s le of 1013 Australian women participated in a cross-sectional self-report survey that assessed factors associated with diet and obesity. Multiple logistic regressions were used to examine the associations between a range of in idual, social and environmental factors and aspects of both healthy and unhealthy eating, whilst controlling for key covariates. Results indicated that women with high self efficacy for healthy eating, taste preferences for fruit and vegetables, family support for healthy eating and the absence of perceived barriers to healthy eating (time and cost) were more likely to consume components of a healthy diet and less likely to consume components of a unhealthy diet. Optimal benefits in overall diet quality amongst women may be achieved by targeting factors associated with both healthy and unhealthy eating in nutrition promotion efforts.

A prospective examination of children's time spent outdoors, objectively measured physical activity and overweight

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-10-2008

DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2008.171

Abstract: This study aimed to determine whether time spent outdoors was associated with objectively measured physical activity, body mass index (BMI) z-score and overweight in elementary-school aged children, cross-sectionally and prospectively over 3 years. Three-year cohort study with data collected during 2001 and 2004. Nineteen randomly selected state elementary schools across Melbourne, Australia. One hundred and eighty eight 5-6-year-old and 360 10-12-year-old children. Baseline parent reports of children's time spent outdoors during warmer and cooler months, on weekdays and weekends. At baseline and follow-up, children's moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was objectively assessed by accelerometry, and BMI z-score and overweight was calculated from measured height and weight. Cross-sectionally, each additional hour outdoors on weekdays and weekend days during the cooler months was associated with an extra 27 min week(-1) MVPA among older girls, and with an extra 20 min week(-1) MVPA among older boys. Longitudinally, more time outdoors on weekends predicted higher MVPA on weekends among older girls and boys (5 min week(-1)). The prevalence of overweight among older children at follow-up was 27-41% lower among those spending more time outdoors at baseline. Encouraging 10-12-year-old children to spend more time outdoors may be an effective strategy for increasing physical activity and preventing increases in overweight and obesity. Intervention research investigating the effect of increasing time outdoors on children's physical activity and overweight is warranted.

Prevalence and stability of active play, restricted movement and television viewing in infants

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 28-10-2014

DOI: 10.1080/03004430.2014.963066

Are parental concerns for child TV viewing associated with child TV viewing and the home sedentary environment?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-8-102

EatSmart, a Web-Based and Mobile Healthy Eating Intervention for Disadvantaged People With Type 2 Diabetes: Protocol for a Pilot Mixed Methods Intervention Study

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 06-11-2020

DOI: 10.2196/19488

Abstract: People of low socioeconomic position (SEP) are disproportionately affected by type 2 diabetes (T2D), partly due to unhealthy eating patterns that contribute to inadequate disease self-management and prognosis. Digital technologies have the potential to provide a suitable medium to facilitate diabetes education, support self-management, and address some of the barriers to healthy eating, such as lack of nutritional knowledge or shopping or cooking skills, in this target group. This study aims to test the feasibility, appeal, and potential effectiveness of EatSmart, a 12-week, evidence-based, theoretically grounded, fully automated web-based and mobile-delivered healthy eating behavior change program to help disadvantaged people living with T2D to eat healthily on a budget and improve diabetes self-management. EatSmart is a mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative) pre-post design pilot study. Sixty socioeconomically disadvantaged people with T2D aged 18 to 75 years will be recruited. Participants will complete self-reported baseline assessments of their basic demographic and clinical data, dietary intake, dietary self-efficacy, and barriers to healthy eating. They will be provided with login access to the EatSmart web program, which includes six progressive skill-based modules covering healthy eating planning smart food budgeting and shopping time-saving meal strategies, healthy cooking methods, modifying recipes and a final reinforcement and summary module. Over the 3-month intervention, participants will also receive 3 text messages weekly, encouraging them to review goals, continue to engage with different components of the EatSmart web program, and eat healthily. Participants will undertake follow-up assessments directly following the intervention 3 months post baseline and again after a 6-month postintervention follow-up period (9 months post baseline). Feasibility will be evaluated using the number of participants recruited and retained and objective indicators of engagement with the website. Program appeal and potential effects on primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed via the same surveys used at baseline, with additional questions asking about experience with and perceptions of the program. In-depth qualitative interviews will also be conducted 6 months post intervention to provide deeper insight into experiences with EatSmart and a more comprehensive description of the program’s appeal. The EatSmart website has been developed, and all participants have viewed the modules as of May 2020. Results are expected to be submitted for publication in December 2020. This study will provide data to address the currently limited evidence regarding whether disadvantaged populations with T2D may benefit from digitally delivered behavior change programs that facilitate eating healthily on a budget. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12619001111167 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12619001111167 DERR1-10.2196/19488

Dietary Quality Is Associated with Diabetes and Cardio-Metabolic Risk Factors

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2009

DOI: 10.3945/JN.108.096784

Abstract: In this study, our aim was to investigate the associations between diet quality and newly diagnosed diabetes, prediabetes, and cardio-metabolic risk factors. The analysis was based on 7441 participants of the Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle study, a cross-sectional study of adults aged > or =25 y involving a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test. Diet quality was assessed via a dietary guideline index and FFQ data. Associations between diet quality and diabetes, prediabetes (impaired fasting glycemia, impaired glucose tolerance), and cardiovascular risk factors were investigated using linear and logistic regression adjusted for age, education, smoking, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and BMI. Higher diet quality was significantly associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure among men, lower fasting plasma glucose among men and women, and lower systolic blood pressure, fasting plasma insulin, and 2-h plasma glucose and greater insulin sensitivity among women. Diet quality was inversely associated with abdominal obesity [odds ratio (OR) for top quartile: 0.68, 0.48-0.96], hypertension (OR: 0.50, 0.31-0.81), and type 2 diabetes (OR: 0.38, 0.18-0.80) among men. Lack of compliance with established dietary guidelines was associated with type 2 diabetes and cardio-metabolic risk factors. Further work is required to determine whether this dietary index has predictive validity for health in longitudinal studies.

Influence of price discounts and skill-building strategies on purchase and consumption of healthy food and beverages: outcomes of the Supermarket Healthy Eating for Life randomized controlled trial

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2015

DOI: 10.3945/AJCN.114.096735

Abstract: Fiscal strategies are increasingly considered upstream nutrition promotion measures. However, few trials have investigated the effectiveness or cost effectiveness of pricing manipulations on diet in real-world settings. We assessed the effects on fruit, vegetable, and beverage purchasing and consumption of a 20% price-reduction intervention, a tailored skills-based behavior-change intervention, and a combined intervention compared with a control condition. The Supermarket Healthy Eating for Life trial was a randomized controlled trial conducted over 3 mo [baseline (time 1) to postintervention (time 2) with a 6-mo follow-up (time 3)]. Female primary household shoppers in Melbourne, Australia, were randomly assigned to a 1) skill-building (n = 160), 2) price-reduction (n = 161), 3) combined skill-building and price-reduction (n = 160), or 4) control (n = 161) group. Supermarket transaction data and surveys were used to measure the following study outcomes: fruit, vegetable, and beverage purchases and self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption at each time point. At 3 mo (time 2), price reduction-alone participants purchased more total vegetables and frozen vegetables than did controls. Price reduction-alone and price reduction-plus-skill-building participants purchased more fruit than did controls. Relative to controls, in the price-reduction group, total vegetable consumption increased by 233 g/wk (3.1 servings or 15% more than at baseline), and fruit purchases increased by 364 g/wk (2.4 servings 35% more than at baseline). Increases were not maintained 6 mo postintervention (time 3). Price reduction-alone participants showed a tendency for a slight increase in fruit consumption at time 2 (P = 0.09) that was maintained at time 3 (P = 0.014). No intervention improved purchases of bottled water or low-calorie beverages. A 20% price reduction in fruit and vegetables resulted in increased purchasing per household of 35% for fruit and 15% for vegetables over the price-reduction period. These findings show that price modifications can directly increase produce purchases. The Supermarket Healthy Eating for Life trial was registered at Current Controlled Trials Registration as ISRCTN39432901.

Nutrition promotion approaches preferred by Australian adolescents attending schools in disadvantaged neighbourhoods: a qualitative study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-05-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S12887-015-0379-7

Is park visitation associated with leisure-time and transportation physical activity?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2013.08.001

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine whether frequency of park visitation was associated with time spent in various domains of physical activity among adults living in a disadvantaged neighbourhood of Victoria, Australia. In 2009, participants (n=319) self-reported park visitation and physical activity including: walking and cycling for transport, leisure-time walking, leisure-time moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, and total physical activity. The mean number of park visits per week was 3.3 (SD=3.8). Park visitation was associated with greater odds of engaging in high (as compared to low) amounts of transportation physical activity, leisure-time walking, leisure-time moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and total physical activity. Each additional park visit per week was associated with 23% greater odds of being in the high category for transportation physical activity, 26% greater odds of engaging in high amounts of leisure-time walking, 11% greater odds of engaging in MVPA, and 40% greater odds of high total physical activity. Acknowledging the cross-sectional study design, the findings suggest that park visitation may be an important predictor and/or destination for transportation and leisure-time walking and physical activity. Findings highlight the potentially important role of parks for physical activity.

Socio-economic differences in predictors of frequent dairy food consumption among Australian adolescents: a longitudinal study

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 23-02-2015

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980015000324

Abstract: Sufficient dairy food consumption during adolescence is necessary for preventing disease. While socio-economically disadvantaged adolescents tend to consume few dairy foods, some eat quantities more in line with dietary recommendations despite socio-economic challenges. Socio-economic variations in factors supportive of adolescents’ frequent dairy consumption remain unexplored. The present study aimed to identify cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between intrapersonal, social and environmental factors and adolescents’ frequent dairy consumption at baseline and two years later across socio-economic strata, and to examine whether socio-economic position moderated observed effects. Online surveys completed at baseline (2004–2005) and follow-up (2006–2007) included a thirty-eight-item FFQ and questions based on social ecological models examining intrapersonal, social and environmental dietary influences. Thirty-seven secondary schools in Victoria, Australia. Australian adolescents ( n 1201) aged 12–15 years, drawn from a sub-s le of 3264 adolescents (response rate=33 %). While frequent breakfast consumption was cross-sectionally associated with frequent dairy consumption among all adolescents, additional associated factors differed by socio-economic position. Baseline dairy consumption longitudinally predicted consumption at follow-up. No further factors predicted frequent consumption among disadvantaged adolescents, while four additional factors were predictive among advantaged adolescents. Socio-economic position moderated two predictors infrequently eating dinner alone and never purchasing from school vending machines predicted frequent consumption among advantaged adolescents. Nutrition promotion initiatives aimed at improving adolescents’ dairy consumption should employ multifactorial approaches informed by social ecological models and address socio-economic differences in influences on eating behaviours e.g. selected intrapersonal factors among all adolescents and social factors (e.g. mealtime rules) among advantaged adolescents.

Improving perceptions of healthy food affordability: Results from a pilot intervention

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-11-33

Examination of mid-intervention mediating effects on objectively assessed sedentary time among children in the Transform-Us! cluster-randomized controlled trial

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 20-05-2013

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-10-62

Abstract: The optimal targets and strategies for effectively reducing sedentary behavior among young people are unknown. Intervention research that explores changes in mediated effects as well as in outcome behaviors is needed to help inform more effective interventions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the mid-intervention mediating effects on children’s objectively assessed classroom and total weekday sedentary time in the Transform-Us! intervention. The results are based on 293 children, aged 7- to 9-years-old at baseline, from 20 schools in Melbourne, Australia. Each school was randomly allocated to one of four groups, which targeted reducing sedentary time in the school and family settings (SB n = 74), increasing or maintaining moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity in the school and family settings (PA n = 75), combined SB and PA (SB + PA n = 80), or the current practice control (C n = 64). Baseline and mid-intervention data (5–9 months) were collected in 2010 and analyzed in 2012. Classroom and total weekday sedentary time was objectively assessed using ActiGraph accelerometers. The hypothesized mediators including, child enjoyment, parent and teacher outcome expectancies, and child perceived access to standing opportunities in the classroom environment, were assessed by questionnaire. The SB + PA group spent 13.3 min/day less in weekday sedentary time at mid-intervention compared to the control group. At mid-intervention, children in the SB group had higher enjoyment of standing in class (0.9 units 5-unit scale) and all intervention groups had more positive perceptions of access to standing opportunities in the classroom environment (0.3-0.4 units 3-unit scale), compared to the control group. However, none of the hypothesized mediator variables had an effect on sedentary time thus, no mediating effects were observed. While beneficial intervention effects were observed on some hypothesized mediating variables and total weekday sedentary time at mid-intervention, no significant mediating effects were found. Given the dearth of existing information, future intervention research is needed that explores mediated effects. More work is also needed on the development of reliable mediator measures that are sensitive to change overtime. ACTRN12609000715279 ISRCTN83725066

Personal, social and environmental correlates of healthy weight status amongst mothers from socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods: findings from the READI study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 23-03-2010

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-7-23

Abstract: Socioeconomically disadvantaged mothers are at high risk of obesity, yet the aetiology of obesity in this group remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to examine the perceived personal, social and physical environmental factors associated with resilience to obesity among mothers from socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Survey data were provided by a cohort of 1840 women aged 18-46 years with dependent children (aged 0-18 years) from 40 urban and 40 rural socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods across Victoria, Australia. Mothers responded to a number of questions relating to personal, social and environmental influences on their physical activity and eating habits. Mothers' weight status was classified as healthy weight (BMI: 18.5-24.99), overweight (BMI: 25-29.99) or obese (BMI: 30+). Mothers' weight status was bivariably associated with factors from all three domains (personal, social and physical environmental). In a multivariable model, mothers' perceived ability to make time for healthy eating (OR = 1.34) and physical activity (OR = 1.11) despite family commitments, and the frequency with which families ate healthy low-fat foods with mothers (OR = 1.28) remained significantly positively associated with healthy weight status. The frequency with which families encouraged eating healthy low-fat foods remained negatively associated (OR = 0.81) with weight status ie greater encouragement was associated with less healthy weight status. Drawing on the characteristics of mothers resilient to obesity might assist in developing intervention strategies to help other mothers in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighbourhoods to manage their weight. Such strategies might focus on planning for and prioritising time for healthy eating and physical activity behaviours, and including family members in and encouraging family mealtimes.

Family circumstance and adolescent dietary behaviours

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2009.03.004

Abstract: The available information on the contribution of family circumstance to adolescent dietary behaviours is inconsistent. Indicators of family circumstance may impact adolescent behaviours by influencing their daily home environment. This study examined cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between indicators of family circumstance and (i) breakfast skipping and (ii) consumption of snack food, fast food, fruits and vegetables among adolescents. Dietary behaviour was assessed using a web-based survey completed by 1884 adolescents from years 7 and 9 of secondary schools in Victoria, Australia, at baseline and 2 years later. Five indicators of family circumstance (parental marital status, maternal education, maternal employment status, number of brothers and number of sisters) were assessed with a questionnaire completed by parents at baseline only. Logistic regression was used to examine cross-sectional associations between indicators of family circumstance and dietary behaviours. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine associations between indicators of family circumstance and 2-year change in dietary behaviours. In idual indicators of family circumstance were differentially associated with adolescent dietary behaviours. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations differed for adolescent boys and girls highlighting the importance of assessing specific dietary behaviours and food types in idually by gender. This study highlights the complexity of the relationships between family circumstance and adolescent dietary behaviours. Future research needs to assess the efficacy of strategies promoting maternal nutritional knowledge on the dietary behaviours of adolescents.

Parental use of restrictive feeding practices and child BMI z-score. A 3-year prospective cohort study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2010.04.006

Abstract: This study examines associations between parental feeding restriction at baseline and child body mass index (BMI) z-score at 3-year follow-up. Parents of 204 5-6-year-old and 188 10-12-year-old children completed the Child Feeding Questionnaire at baseline (2002/3). In 2002/3 and 2005/6, children's BMI z-score was calculated from measured height and weight. Analyses were stratified by age-group. The association of follow-up zBMI and baseline feeding restriction score was explored using (i) linear regression with adjustment for baseline zBMI and (ii) with further adjustments for baseline maternal BMI, maternal education level and child sex. Baseline restriction was associated with follow-up zBMI at 3 years in 5-6-year-old children and was largely unchanged when adjusting for child sex, maternal BMI and education. Restriction was not associated with follow-up zBMI in 10-12-year-old children. This longitudinal study adds important depth to our understanding of associations between restrictive feeding and change in zBMI, suggesting that restriction of energy-dense foods and drinks may be protective of unhealthy weight gain in younger children but may have no effect among older children. These findings support a reconsideration of the notion that restriction is likely to result in increased child weight.

Does Weight Status Influence Associations Between Children's Fundamental Movement Skills and Physical Activity?

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 06-2008

DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2008.10599479

Abstract: This study sought to determine whether weight status influences the association among children's fundamental movement skills (FMS) and physical activity (PA). Two hundred forty-eight children ages 9-12 years participated. Proficiency in three object-control skills and two locomotor skills was examined. Accelerometers objectively assessed physical activity. Body mass index was calculated to determine weight status. Correlations between physical activity and FMS proficiency were evident among boys and girls. No significant interaction was apparent when examining FMS proficiency scores, PA variables, and weight status. Future studies should examine a broader range of skills and types of activities to better characterize this relationship and to inform the promotion of movement skill proficiency and PA.

Diet quality and telomere length in older Australian men and women

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 26-10-2016

DOI: 10.1007/S00394-016-1326-6

Associations between the physical activity levels of fathers and their children at 20 months, 3.5 and five years of age

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 05-07-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12889-017-4545-8

Perceptions about the local neighborhood and walking and cycling among children

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2003.09.026

Abstract: This study examined associations between perceptions of the local neighborhood and walking and cycling among children. Children aged 5-6 years (n=291) and 10-12 years (n=919) were recruited from 19 Australian primary schools. Parents reported their child's usual walking or cycling to local destinations and their perceptions of their neighborhood. Ten- to twelve-year-olds were asked their perceptions of traffic, strangers, road safety and sporting venues, and their perceptions of their parent's views on these issues. Five- to six-year-old boys whose parents believed there was heavy traffic in their area were 2.8 times more likely (95%CI=1.1-6.8), and 5- to 6-year-old girls whose parents owned more than one car were 70% less likely (95%CI=0.1-0.8), and whose parents believed that public transport was limited in their area were 60% less likely (95%CI=0.2-0.9) than other children to walk or cycle at least three times per week. Parental belief that there were no lights or crossings was associated with walking or cycling among 10- to 12-year-old boys (OR=0.4, 95%CI=0.2-0.7). Among older girls, parent's belief that their child needed to cross several roads to reach play areas (OR=0.4, 95%CI=0.2-0.8) and that there is limited public transport in their area (OR=0.7, 95%CI=0.4-0.97), and child's belief that there were no parks or sports grounds near home (OR=0.5, 95%CI=0.3-0.8) were associated with a lower likelihood of walking or cycling. Perceptions of the local neighborhood may influence children's physical activity.

Associations between the perceived environment and physical activity among adults aged 55-65 years: Does urban-rural area of residence matter?

Publisher: Human Kinetics

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1123/JAPA.2012-0271

Abstract: This study aimed to determine whether associations between the perceived environment and physical activity are moderated by urban-rural status among midolder aged adults. Environmental (safety, aesthetics, physical activity environment) and physical activity (total, leisure, transport) data from 3,888 adults (55 to 65 years) from urban and rural areas of Victoria, Australia, were analyzed. Multinomial logistic regression examined interactions between urban-rural status and environments in associations with physical activity. Significant ( P .05) interactions were evident and indicated positive associations only among older rural adults for both safety and aesthetics with total and transport physical activity (e.g., rural adults reporting higher safety were 91% to 118% more likely to have higher activity than rural adults reporting low safety). In contrast, the physical activity environment was positively associated with leisure activity among only urban adults. Findings suggest that some tailoring of physical activity promotion strategies targeting the environment may be required for urban and rural midolder aged adults.

Variation in supermarket exposure to energy-dense snack foods by socio-economic position

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 22-05-2012

DOI: 10.1017/S1368980012002649

Abstract: The present study aimed to examine the availability of energy-dense, nutrient-poor snack foods (and fruits and vegetables) in supermarkets located in socio-economically advantaged and disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Cross-sectional supermarket audit. Melbourne, Australia. Measures included product shelf space and number of varieties for soft drinks, crisps, chocolate, confectionery and fruits and vegetables, as well as store size. Thirty-five supermarkets (response 83 %) from neighbourhoods in the lowest and highest quintile of socio-economic disadvantage. Shelf space allocated to soft drinks (23·6 m v . 17·7 m, P = 0·006), crisps (16·5 m v . 13·0 m, P = 0·016), chocolate (12·2 m v . 10·1 m, P = 0·022) and confectionery (6·7 m v . 5·1 m, P = 0·003) was greater in stores from socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. After adjustment for store size (stores in disadvantaged areas being larger), shelf space for confectionery (6·3 m v . 5·6 m, P = 0·024) and combined shelf space for all energy-dense foods and drinks (55·0 m v . 48·9 m, P = 0·017) remained greater in stores from socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. The ratio of shelf space allocated to fruits and vegetables to that for energy-dense snack foods also varied by socio-economic disadvantage after adjustment for store size (most disadvantaged v . least disadvantaged: 1·7 v . 2·1, P = 0·025). Varieties of fruits and vegetables and chocolate bars were more numerous in less disadvantaged areas ( P 0·05). Exposure to energy-dense snack foods and soft drinks in supermarkets was greater in socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. This may impact purchasing, consumption and cultural norms related to eating behaviours and may therefore work against elimination of the known socio-economic gradient in obesity levels. Reform of supermarket stocking practices may represent an effective means of obesity prevention.

Public perceptions of the causes and prevention of obesity among primary school children

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-11-2003

DOI: 10.1038/SJ.IJO.0802463

A translational research intervention to reduce screen behaviours and promote physical activity among children: Switch-2-Activity

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 22-12-2010

DOI: 10.1093/HEAPRO/DAQ078

Abstract: Translational or implementation research that assesses the effectiveness of strategies to promote health behaviours among children that have been previously tested under 'ideal' conditions is rarely reported. Switch-2-Activity aimed to examine the effectiveness of an abbreviated programme delivered by teachers targeting children's television viewing, computer use, physical activity and potential mediators of behaviour change. Fifteen schools from disadvantaged areas in Melbourne, Australia agreed to participate in the study (43% school-level response rate). Out of the 1566 Grades 5 and 6 (9-12 year old) children invited to take part in the study, 1048 (67% response rate) provided informed consent. Schools were randomized to either an intervention or wait-list control condition. Teachers delivered six lessons, which included strategies such as self-monitoring, behavioural contracting and budgeting of screen time. Children completed a self-report survey at baseline and post-intervention examining screen-based behaviours, physical activity, self-efficacy and behavioural capability. Teachers reported implementation of and attitudes to the programme. Seventy-one per cent of teachers delivered at least four of the six lessons. Most teachers reported that the materials were easy to follow and deliver however, many teachers reported modifying the materials in some way. Among boys, there were favourable small intervention effects on weekend screen time [(coefficient = -0.62, 95% 95% confidence interval: -1.15, -0.10, p = 0.020)]. The intervention also had significant positive effects on children's self-efficacy for reducing television viewing and on behavioural capability (television viewing styles). Future studies that assess the translation of efficacious programmes and that test whether such programmes are equally effective in different settings (e.g. in the family setting) are urgently required.

The impact of a new McDonald's restaurant on eating behaviours and perceptions of local residents: A natural experiment using repeated cross-sectional data

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2016.03.005

Adherence to the Australian dietary guidelines and development of depressive symptoms at 5 years follow-up amongst women in the READI cohort study

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-04-2020

DOI: 10.1186/S12937-020-00540-0

Abstract: Depression is the single largest contributor to global disability. There is growing evidence that a healthy diet is associated with reduced depression risk. However, beyond the Mediterranean diet, few longitudinal studies have explored the relationship between adherence to national dietary guidelines and depression. Hence, this study investigates the relationship between adherence to Australian Dietary Guidelines and depressive symptoms. Data was drawn from the READI longitudinal study, a prospective cohort study of socioeconomically disadvantaged Australian women. This analysis includes a sub-s le of 837 women. A generalized linear model was used to explore whether baseline diet (assessed using the Dietary Guideline Index (DGI-2013 score range 0 to 85)) was associated with risk of developing depressive symptoms (measured by the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D)) at 5 years follow-up, whilst adjusting for potential confounders. A fixed-effects model was used to assess associations between concurrent changes in diet quality and depressive symptoms from baseline to 5 years follow-up. An association between baseline diet quality and risk of developing depressive symptoms at follow-up was observed, where a 10 unit increase in DGI-2013 score was associated with an estimated 12% lower risk of developing heightened depressive symptoms (RR = 0.875, 95%CI 0.784 to 0.978, p = 0.018). The fixed-effects model indicated that an increase in DGI score over 5 years follow-up was associated with a lower (improved) CES-D score (B = -0.044, 95% CI − 0.08 to − 0.01, p = 0.024). Our results provide evidence that better adherence to the Australian Dietary Guidelines may result in improved depressive symptoms. The growing high-quality evidence regarding the diet-depression relationship provides us with a rationale for developing strategies for supporting dietary behaviour change programs to lower depression rates.

Are Parental Concerns About Children's Inactivity Warranted, and Are They Associated With a Supportive Home Environment?

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 09-2008

DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2008.10599491

Abstract: This paper explores parental concern about children's activity levels and whether parents who are concerned about their child's activity provide a supportive environment. A s le of 615 parents of 5-6-year-old children and 947 parents of 10-12-year-old children completed a questionnaire. Just over 50% of parents reported they were concerned their child was not getting enough activity. Children of concerned parents were less active than those whose parents were not concerned. These findings suggest that parents who are concerned about their child's physical activity levels provided a less supportive environment for physical activity than parents who are not concerned. The challenge for public health will be to harness parental concerns and translate them into action.

Family food environments of 5-6-year-old-children: does socioeconomic status make a difference?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-2002

DOI: 10.1046/J.0964-7058.2002.00346.X

Dietary associations of fathers and their children between the ages of 20 months and 5 years

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 18-04-2016

DOI: 10.1017/S136898001600077X

Abstract: To examine associations between dietary intakes of fathers and their children at child age 20 months, 3·5 years and 5 years, and to determine if fathers’ intake predicts change in children’s intake between 20 months and 3·5 and 5 years of age. The diets of fathers and their first-born children participating in the longitudinal Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program were assessed using FFQ and three 24 h recalls, respectively. Sixty-two pre-existing first-time parent groups were selected from fourteen local government areas within a 60 km radius of Deakin University Burwood, Victoria, Australia. Fathers and their first-born children at 20 months ( n 317), 3·5 years ( n 214) and 5 years of age ( n 208). Positive associations were found between fathers’ and children’s intakes of fruit and sweet snacks at 20 months ( P =0·001) and 5 years of age ( P =0·012). Fathers’ intake at child age 20 months was associated with change in children’s intake for fruit, sweet snacks and sugar-sweetened beverages between child age 20 months and 3·5 years, and for sweet snacks and sugar-sweetened beverages between child age 20 months and 5 years (all P ·05). After adjustment for maternal intake, fathers’ intake of sweet snacks remained a predictor of change in children’s sweet snack intake between 20 months and 3·5 years of age ( P =0·03). Associations between the dietary intakes of fathers and their children commence at a young age and continue through early childhood. Fathers should be included in future interventions aimed at improving children’s diets.

A pilot intervention to reduce postpartum weight retention and central adiposity in first‐time mothers: results from the mums OnLiNE (Online, Lifestyle, Nutrition & Exercise) study

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-10-2017

DOI: 10.1111/JHN.12521

Abstract: Postpartum weight retention (PPWR) increases the risk for obesity and complications during subsequent pregnancies. Few interventions have been successful in limiting PPWR in mothers. The present study assessed the effectiveness of the mums OnLiNE (Online, Lifestyle, Nutrition & Exercise) intervention with respect to reducing PPWR and improving diet, physical activity and sedentary behaviour. A subs le of first-time mothers enrolled in the Extended Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT Extend) completed the nonrandomised mums OnLiNE intervention. Women in the intervention (I) group (n = 28) received access to an online calorie tracking program, smartphone app, three telephone counselling calls with a dietitian and written material. Women in two comparison groups (CI and C2) (n = 48 n = 43) were from the control (C1) and intervention (C2) arms of InFANT Extend and received no additional support. Weight and waist circumference were measured objectively. Written surveys assessed diet and physical activity. Sedentary behaviour was self-reported. Linear and logistic regression assessed changes in outcomes between groups from 9 to 18 months postpartum. Mean PPWR decreased in the (I) group (-1.2 kg) and the C2 group (-1.2 kg), although the changes were not significant. Mean waist circumference for all groups exceeded recommendations at baseline but decreased to below recommendations for women in the (I) group (78.3 cm) and significantly for the (I) group (-6.4 cm) compared to C1 (-1.1 cm P = 0.002) and C2 (-3.3 cm P = 0.001). Changes in diet, physical activity or sedentary behaviour were not significant. The online intervention reported in the present study shows promise with respect to reducing waist circumference in postpartum women. Further evidence of strategies that may improve weight and related behaviours in this target group is needed.

Patterns and demographic predictors of 5-year weight change in a multi-ethnic cohort of men and women in Australia.

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 06-2003

DOI: 10.1079/PHN2002431

Abstract: This study investigated 5-year trends in body weight, overweight and obesity and their association with sociodemographic variables in a large, multi-ethnic community s le of Australian adults. This prospective population study used baseline and 5-year follow-up data from participants in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study (MCCS). Population study in Melbourne, Australia. In total, 12 125 men and 17 674 women aged 35–69 years at baseline. Mean 5-year weight change in this s le was +1.58 (standard deviation (SD) 4.82) kg for men and +2.42 (SD 5.17) kg for women. Younger (35–44 years) men and, in particular, women gained more weight than older adults and were at highest risk of major weight gain (≥5 kg) and becoming overweight. Risk of major weight gain and associations between demographic variables and weight change did not vary greatly by ethnicity. Education level showed complex associations with weight outcomes that differed by sex and ethnicity. Multivariate analyses showed that, among men, higher initial body weight was associated with decreased likelihood of major weight gain, whereas among women, those initially overweight or obese were about 20% more likely to experience major weight gain than underweight or healthy weight women. Findings of widespread weight gain across this entire population s le, and particularly among younger women and women who were already overweight, are a cause for alarm. The prevention of weight gain and obesity across the entire population should be an urgent public health priority. Young-to-mid adulthood appears to be a critical time to intervene to prevent future weight gain.

Police opinions of a proposal for controlled availability of heroin in Australia

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 12-1995

DOI: 10.1080/10439463.1995.9964732

Preschoolers’ Physical Activity, Screen Time, and Compliance with Recommendations

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Date: 03-2012

DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0B013E318233763B

A process evaluation of the Supermarket Healthy Eating for Life (SHELf) randomized controlled trial

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-02-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12966-016-0352-3

A Revised Australian Dietary Guideline Index and Its Association with Key Sociodemographic Factors, Health Behaviors and Body Mass Index in Peri-Retirement Aged Adults

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 11-03-2016

DOI: 10.3390/NU8030160

How is active transport associated with children's and adolescents' physical activity over time?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-8-126

Feasibility, acceptability and potential effectiveness of a mobile health (mHealth) weight management programme for New Zealand adults

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-07-2014

DOI: 10.1186/2052-9538-1-10

Supermarket Healthy Eating for Life (SHELf): protocol of a randomised controlled trial promoting healthy food and beverage consumption through price reduction and skill-building strategies

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-09-2011

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-11-715

Five-year changes in school recess and lunchtime and the contribution to children's daily physical activity.

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 19-05-2012

DOI: 10.1136/BJSM.2011.084921

Abstract: To investigate the longitudinal changes in children's recess and lunchtime physical activity levels and in the contribution of recess and lunchtime to daily physical activity levels over 5 years among 5-6- and 10-12-year olds. Data were drawn from two longitudinal studies that were conducted in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. Boys and girls (n=2782) aged 5-6 years and 10-12 years participated in baseline (T0) measures. Physical activity (n=2490) was measured every 60 s for eight consecutive days using hip-mounted accelerometry. Subsequent measurements were taken at 3-year (T1 n=773) and 5-year (T2 n=634) follow-up. Physical activity intensities were derived using age-adjusted cut-points. Sedentary time was defined as 100 counts/min. Longitudinal data were analysed using three-level (time, child, school) multilevel analyses, stratified by sex and cohort, and adjusted for potential confounding variables. Significant decreases in recess and lunchtime moderate and vigorous physical activity were observed (p<0.001), with larger decreases occurring in the older cohort. Associated increases were observed in sedentary time over time (p<0.01). Although the contribution of recess to daily moderate intensity physical activity increased in the younger cohort over time (p<0.001), significant decreases were observed in the older cohort (p<0.001). Physical activity levels during recess and lunchtime decreased in both cohorts over time. Decreases in the contribution of recess and lunchtime to older children's daily physical activity were also observed. Interventions are needed in both primary and secondary schools to promote physical activity levels during recess and lunchtime, particularly during the early years of secondary school.

Perceived personal, social and environmental barriers to weight maintenance among young women: A community survey

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2004

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-1-15

Correlates of dietary resilience among socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-06-2011

DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2011.107

Abstract: Despite increased risk for unhealthy diets, some socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents manage to consume a healthy diet, thereby showing 'dietary resilience'. This investigation aimed to describe the vegetable and fruit intakes of socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents, and explore the intrapersonal, social and environmental factors associated with more favourable dietary intakes among socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents. The present investigation draws on data from 1014 socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents (55% girls), a sub-s le of 3264 adolescents aged 12-15 years recruited from 37 secondary schools in Victoria, Australia. The adolescents completed an online survey in 2004-2005 comprising an FFQ and questions pertaining to intrapersonal, social and environmental factors informed by the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Frequent vegetable and fruit intake was defined as 2 times per day and 1 time per day, respectively. Approximately one-third of socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents frequently consumed vegetables and fruit (boys, 29% and 27% respectively girls, 29% and 36% respectively). Greater perceived importance of health, and frequently being served vegetables with dinner, were associated with frequent intakes. Friends' support for healthy eating was associated with boys' frequent vegetable intake. Less stringent adherence to family meal-time rules was associated with frequent intakes however, the opposite was observed when girls were expected to eat all foods served. Nutrition promotion messages targeting socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents could focus on fostering appreciation for health and providing families with strategies to increase meal-time vegetable availability. Friends could be encouraged to support healthy eating among boys. Family meal-time rules warrant further investigation.

Playing it safe: The influence of neighbourhood safety on children's physical activity—A review

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2007.06.004

Abstract: Compared with previous generations, children spend less time playing outdoors and have lower participation rates in active transport. Many studies have identified lack of neighbourhood safety as a potential barrier to children's physical activity. This review describes concerns regarding 'stranger danger' and road safety, and discusses empirical studies that examine associations between neighbourhood safety and physical activity among youth. Variability of perceptions of safety between parents and youth are examined 'social traps' are identified and physical/social environmental interventions aimed at improving neighbourhood safety are discussed. A research agenda is suggested for further study of perceived and objective measures of neighbourhood safety and their associations with children's physical activity.

Social-ecological predictors of physical activity patterns: A longitudinal study of women from socioeconomically disadvantaged areas

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2020.105995

Abstract: Limited longitudinal evidence of the predictors of physical activity (PA) patterns over time exists, particularly among high-risk groups such as women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. This study aimed to: 1) describe leisure-time PA (LTPA) and transport-related PA (TRPA) patterns over time and 2) identify in idual, social and physical environmental predictors of LTPA and TRPA patterns over five years. Baseline (2007-08) data were collected and analysed (2016-18) from n = 4349 women (18-46 years) from disadvantaged areas of Victoria, Australia. Three- and five-year follow-up data were collected in 2010-11 (n = 1912) and 2012 (n = 1560). LTPA and TRPA were self-reported using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and patterns categorised as consistently low, persistently increasing, persistently decreasing, or inconsistent. Compared to a consistently low LTPA pattern, greater family support predicted both persistent decreases (odds ratio [OR] 1.20, 95% CI 1.05-1.36) and persistent increases (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04-1.32) in LTPA, while access to childcare predicted inconsistent LTPA patterns (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.03-2.65). For both LTPA and TRPA, PA enjoyment predicted persistent increases (LTPA: OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.10 TRPA: OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00-1.07), persistent decreases (LTPA: OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00-1.08 TRPA OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.99-1.08), and inconsistent patterns (LTPA: OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.07 TRPA: OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06). Although directionality was inconsistent, and the magnitude of effects were small, PA enjoyment, family social support for PA and access to childcare warrant further investigation and consideration as potentially key factors impacting PA patterns among women living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.

Family influences on children's physical activity and fruit and vegetable consumption

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-6-34

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP0560363

Start Date: 09-2005

End Date: 12-2008

Amount: $195,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP0990129

Start Date: 01-2010

End Date: 12-2013

Amount: $70,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP0452044

Start Date: 04-2004

End Date: 12-2007

Amount: $298,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP0209041

Start Date: 06-2002

End Date: 12-2005

Amount: $195,552.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP0990183

Start Date: 05-2010

End Date: 12-2013

Amount: $74,996.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP0664206

Start Date: 01-2006

End Date: 06-2010

Amount: $309,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP1095595

Start Date: 2010

End Date: 12-2013

Amount: $210,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP120200396

Start Date: 06-2013

End Date: 12-2017

Amount: $180,694.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP130101078

Start Date: 06-2013

End Date: 12-2016

Amount: $325,343.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE140100099

Start Date: 07-2014

End Date: 12-2015

Amount: $154,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council