The Effectiveness of Interventions to Reduce Sedentary Time in Different Target Groups and Settings in Germany: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Recommendations on Interventions

Abstract

Background: Sedentary behavior is an important risk factor for several chronic diseases and is associated with an increased risk of mortality. We assessed the effectiveness of interventions to reduce sedentary time in Germany and provide recommendations on interventions to reduce sedentary time in children and adults. Methods: We comprehensively searched PubMed, Web of Science and the German Clinical Trials Register up to April 2022 for intervention studies targeting sedentary behavior in Germany. We performed a systematic review and qualitative synthesis of the interventions and a meta-analysis in children. Results: We included 15 studies comprising data from 4588 participants. The results of included primary studies in adults and children showed inconsistent evidence regarding change in sedentary time, with a majority of studies reporting non-significant intervention effects. The meta-analysis in children showed an increase in sedentary time for children in the control and intervention groups. Conclusion: We found inconsistent evidence regarding the effectiveness of interventions to reduce time spent sedentary and our meta-analysis showed an increase in sedentary time in children. For children, we recommend physical and social environment interventions with an active involvement of families. For adults, we recommend physical environment interventions, such as height-adjustable desks at work.

Effective management of sedentary behavior among Indian university students: An empirical exploration into health-related behavior

“…[ 44 45 ] Technological interventions have demonstrated their potential in promoting physical activity and well-being across clinical populations and mixed populations. [ 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 ] These interventions have shown promise in addressing a spectrum of health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders, by facilitating behavior change and encouraging active lifestyles.…”

“…An increase in remote studies, which were conducted to implement management strategies for sedentary behavior, was observed. [ 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 ] Given the notable rise in sedentary behaviors and the increasing prevalence of obesity,[ 71 ] there is a compelling need for research on interventions that promote active and healthier lifestyles. Continual research is warranted to regularly update the data pertaining to the physical activity levels of school-age children, adolescents, and adults, as well as their respective sedentary behaviors.…”

Association between sedentary behavior and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in children and adolescents: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

“…For children and adolescents, who are in full brain development and going through a great period of neuroplasticity, the tendency to maintain sedentary behaviors such as excessive sitting time and excessive time using screen equipment also increases [ 7 , 33 ]. Furthermore, SB during childhood and adolescence is one of the risk factors for triggering cardiovascular diseases in adult life, which makes it relevant to develop strategies to control and reduce SB since the first years of life [ 34 , 35 ].…”

Patterns and correlates of physical activity and sedentary behavior among Bangkok residents: A cross-sectional study

“…Similarly, the proportion of office-based occupations increased substantially during the same period (from 14.2 to 18.0 million) [ 43 ]. Consequently, policy interventions should focus on enhancing opportunities and improving environmental factors that facilitate physical activity while minimizing sedentary behavior in the workplace [ 54 ]. Examples include using sit-stand desks, treadmill desks, or cycling desks combined with educational information, counseling, and short breaks or walking strategies [ 55 ].…”