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Kicking TelevisionWhat is the problem and what is known about it so far?Not getting enough exercise or physical activity raises one’s chances of getting a chronic disease like type 2 diabetes. Some studies have shown that the more time a person spends watching TV, the greater his or her chances for becoming obese or getting type 2 diabetes. Why did the researchers do this particular study?They wanted to look at the link between how much time a person spends watching TV and blood glucose levels. Who was studied?More than 8,000 adults who were older than 35 and did not have diabetes. These people took part in the Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle Study (AusDiab). How was the study done?The researchers measured the participants’ glucose levels after fasting and two hours after an oral glucose tolerance test (see “Pre-Diabetes” below for more information on an oral glucose tolerance test). An interviewer asked them questions about how much time they spent watching TV. What did the researchers find?In women especially, more time spent watching TV was linked with high blood glucose levels. Glucose levels measured 2 hours after an oral glucose tolerance test were notably high. What were the limitations of the study?This study looked at only one aspect of sedentary, or inactive, behavior (TV viewing). Other aspects of sedentary behavior may have contributed to the results. What are the implications of the study?This study adds to the many studies that show that a sedentary lifestyle leads to higher blood glucose levels, which in turn put one at risk for type 2 diabetes and heart-and-blood-vessel disease. Taking small steps to become less sedentary and more active can help prevent type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
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