Dr. Stella MuthuriDr. Mark Tremblay and Dr. Vincent Onywera are co-authors on a paper, “Results From Kenya’s 2014 Report Card on the Physical Activity and Body Weight of Children and Youth,” that was recently published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health. This paper is part of an open-access supplemental issue relating to the 15 physical activity report cards that were released at the Global Summit on the Physical Activity of Children in Toronto May 19-22, 2014. Citation details and a summary of the paper are below.

Wachira L-JM, Muthuri SK, Tremblay MS, Onywera VO. Results From Kenya’s 2014 Report Card on the Physical Activity and Body Weight of Children and Youth. Journal of Physical Activity and Health 11(suppl.1):S69-S73, 2014.

ABSTRACT: BackgroundThe report card presents available evidence on the physical activity (PA) and body weight status of Kenyan children and youth. It highlights areas where Kenya is succeeding and those in which more action is needed. MethodsComprehensive review and analysis of available data on core indicators for Kenyan children and youth 5–17 years were conducted. The grading system used was based on a set of specific criteria and existing grading schemes from similar report cards in other countries. ResultsOf the 10 core indicators discussed, body composition was favorable (grade B) while overall PA levels, organized sport participation, and active play were assigned grades of C. Active transportation and sedentary behaviors were also favorable (grade B). Family/peers, school, governmental and nongovernmental strategies were graded C. ConclusionsThe majority of Kenyan children and youth have healthy body composition levels and acceptable sedentary time, but are not doing as well in attaining the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation on PA. Although Kenya seems to be doing well in most indicators compared with some developed countries, there is a need for action to address existing trends toward unhealthy lifestyles. More robust and representative data for all indicators are required.

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