Sedentary Behavior in the U.S. Has Increased in All Age Groups Since 2001

Because sedentary behavior confers risks for chronic disease and early mortality, U.S. investigators sought to assess changes in such behavior among adults and children from 2001 through 2016. Data from nationwide health-behavior surveys were used to track three types of sedentary behavior: leisure-time computer use; television or video watching; and total sitting time. Respondents were ≈10,000 children (age range, 5–11 years); ≈10,000 adolescents (age range, 12–19 years); and ≈32,000 adults.

During the study period, the estimated prevalences of ≥2 hours daily of leisure-time computer use increased from 43% to 56% among children, from 52% to 57% among adolescents, and from 30% to 50% among adults. Prevalence of watching television or videos …