This study compared dietary and physical activity behaviors in 9th-12th graders. The 1999 Youth Risk Behavior Survey was administered to a statewide random sample of 9th-12th graders in public high schools in South Carolina (N=3179). Statistically significant differences were observed among black females, black males, white females, and white males with respect to intake of fruit juice (p<.0001), fruit (p<.0001), green salad (p<.0001), potatoes (p<.0001), carrots (p<.0001), other vegetables (p<.0001), and milk (p<.0001). Statistically significant differences were observed among 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders with respect to intake of green salad (p<.0001) and carrots (p<.0001). Dietary quality appears to decline as students progress from 9th to 12th grades. Statistically significant differences were observed among black females, black males, white females, and white males with respect to engaging in physical activity (p<.0001), exercising to strengthen and tone (p<.0001), participating in PE classes (p<.0001), and the number of sports teams played on in the last 12 months (p<.0001). Statistically significant differences were observed among 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders with respect to engaging in physical activity (p<.0001), exercising to strengthen and tone (p<.0001), participating in PE classes (p<.0001), and the number of sports teams played on in the last 12 months (p<.0001. Involvement in PA, exercising, and involvement in PE appears to decline as students progress from 9th to 12th grades. These results indicate the need for the institution of interventions to improve health-risk behaviors of South Carolina adolescents as they progress thru secondary school.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Dietary Assessment, Physical Activity
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.