2020, Vol. 7, Issue 3, Part E

Methods: The sample consisted of 577 students (female = 274, male = 303) aged 10 to 16 years, enrolled in 6th year of elementary school in state public schools. The usual practice of physical activity was assessed through the application of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children/Adolescent. The nutritional status was verified by BMI. Already the screen habits were verified through a questionnaire previously structured by the researchers.

Results: Approximately 80% of students use screen more than 2 hours daily and majority, ~90%, use more than one screen. The cellphone screen was type most used ~44% and, ~84% of students use the screens for entertainment. The X² test showed that boys use more video games than girls (p≤0,01), and girls use more for communication purposes when compared to boys (p≤0,01). The physical activity level was significantly higher in male group (p≤0,01). Approximately 70% of students are physically inactive and the number classified as very sedentary is proportionally higher in the female group (p≤0,01). Almost 30% of students are overweight for their age and height. Finally, physical activity level and nutritional status were not shown associated with screen habits.

Conclusion: High prevalence of excessive screen time and a representative number of physically inactive and overweight schoolchildren were observed. Also, the screen habits between the genders are distinct and it was not associated with level habitual physical activity level and the nutritional state.