Modeling the Interactions between Psychosocial and Environmental Factors with Dietary Patterns, Physical Activity, Cardiometabolic Profile, and Physical Fitness, in Schoolchildren of the Canton of Cuenca

This cross-sectional research project, employing a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative), aims to address the high prevalence of overweight and obesity (30%) among Ecuadorian schoolchildren aged 9 to 12 by identifying associated risk factors. The study focuses on modeling the complex interactions between psychosocial and environmental factors (built and food environments) and key health outcomes, including dietary patterns, physical activity, sedentary behavior, physical fitness, and cardiometabolic profile. The methodology involves objective assessment of the school and surrounding environments (walkability, facilities, microclimates, food availability) using georeferenced mapping and UAVs. Concurrently, children's variables will be directly measured using 24-hour dietary recalls, accelerometers (Actigraph 3GTX) for physical activity and sedentary time, standardized tests for physical fitness (strength and aerobic capacity), and anthropometric and biochemical analyses (lipid profile in a subsample). Furthermore, psychosocial factors will be explored through 20 focus groups with children, parents, and school staff, utilizing the ASE and Socio-Ecological models to design a subsequent questionnaire. The analysis will culminate in constructing a structural equation model to explain causal relationships, providing crucial data for designing effective public policies and preventive strategies in developing countries.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To model the interactions between psychosocial and environmental factors with diet, physical activity, sedentary behavior, physical fitness, and cardiometabolic profile in schoolchildren aged 9 to 12 years in Cuenca, Ecuador.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Condition Monitoring