Clustering of specific health-related behaviours among Toronto adolescents.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The clustering of specific health-related behaviours was examined among adolescents. METHODS: In 2005, cluster analysis was conducted to identify homogeneous groups of Toronto, Ontario, 14- to 17-year-old adolescents (n=445) with similar behaviour patterns according to self-reported measures of moderate to vigorous physical activity (metabolic equivalent [MET] hours a week of MVPA), sedentary behaviours (viewing television or videos, using a computer/the internet, doing homework, and talking with friends), fruit and vegetable consumption, and alcohol consumption. RESULTS: Three clusters of adolescents were identified "active, high screen-time users," "active, low screen-time users," and "less active, least frequent drinkers." CONCLUSIONS: Identifying clusters of adolescents with similar health-related behaviour patterns suggests that researchers and practitioners should develop and implement interventions tailored to specific clusters.