Television viewing time and mortality- The Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle Study (AusDiab)
12 January 2010
Television viewing time, the predominant leisure-time sedentary behavior, is associated with biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk, but its relationship with mortality has not been studied.
Research lead by Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute's Associate Professor David Dunstan, examined the associations of prolonged television viewing time with all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, and non-CVD/noncancer mortality in Australian adults.
The study found that each hour spent in front of the television daily was associated with:
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an 11 per cent increased risk of death from all causes
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a 9 per cent increased risk of cancer death; and
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an 18 per cent increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) related death
The research paper was published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association,12 January 2010.
Interview with Associate Professor David Dunstan lead researcher
Television viewing time and mortality study
Why did you undertake this study?
Associate Professor David Dunstan discusses the influences on his research.
What was the methodology used in this study?
Associate Professor David Dunstan talks about the study design, sample size and participant profile.
What were the main findings to emerge from this study?
Associate Professor David Dunstan discusses the key findings, linking an increased risk of premature death with television viewing time.
What are the implications of these findings?
Associate Professor David Dunstan highlights the impact on health of prolonged periods of inactivity.
What are your recommendations based on the findings of this study?
Associate Professor David Dunstan outlines simple strategies for reducing sedentary time: "switch off, stand up and get moving."
IDLE breaks study
To help us better understand the impact of sitting for long periods, we're currently recruiting adults aged 45-65 to participate in a study that will test the effects of prolonged sitting on blood glucose and fat levels. If you are interested in getting involved with this study please click on the link for further information.