Adolescent leisure-time physical activity types and cardiometabolic health in mid-adulthood: Findings from an Australian cohort.

Abstract

Adolescent leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) is associated with favourable cardiometabolic health, yet the influence of specific LTPA types and longer-term outcomes remains unclear. This study investigated whether adolescent participation in specific LTPA types is associated with cardiometabolic health in mid-adulthood. Data were obtained from the Childhood Determinants of Adult Health study, an Australian cohort spanning childhood to mid-adulthood. LTPA at age 15-19 years was retrospectively assessed in 2004-2006 using the Historical Leisure Activity Questionnaire, with activities grouped into 16 categories. Cardiometabolic measures (waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol) were collected at age 36-49 years (2014-2019). Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and a continuous MetS score were derived. Analyses included 1232 participants. In males, adolescent football and weight training were associated with a lower risk of MetS in mid-adulthood, while action sports were linked to higher risk. Among females, action sports and running were associated with better cardiometabolic profiles in midlife, whereas martial arts were associated with poorer outcomes. Associations between adolescent LTPA and mid-adult cardiometabolic health varied by activity type and sex. Findings suggest specific adolescent activities may better promote cardiometabolic health into mid-adulthood, yet further research is required to understand the underlying mechanisms.