Unveiling the sedentary epidemic through insights from college students in Guangdong

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates the prevalence of sedentary behavior among college students in Guangdong Province, China, and identifies demographic factors associated with sedentary habits. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 253 college students using a structured questionnaire. Participants’ sedentary behavior was assessed using the Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ), with sedentary behavior defined as sitting for ≥7 hours per day. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The majority of participants reported daily sitting times exceeding 10 hours, far surpassing the recommended threshold of 7 hours. Female students, those in lower academic years, and urban residents exhibited higher levels of sedentary behavior. Significant differences were observed in sedentary behavior based on academic year and place of residence, with senior students and those from rural areas reporting lower sitting times. Sedentary behavior is common among college students in Guangdong, with gender, academic year, and residence influencing sitting time.