Sedentary Behavior and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Latino Adults.

BACKGROUND Sedentary behavior has been associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) among primarily White samples, while studies among Latinos have shown mixed results. PURPOSE To explore relationships between sedentary behavior and CVD risk factors among a sample of Latino adults. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 602 Latino adults. Surveys of sedentary behavior and physical activity were orally administered. Anthropometric measurements included weight, height, waist circumference, and blood pressure. Medical record data for diabetes and dyslipidemia were obtained. RESULTS Sedentary behavior was associated with BMI (β = .164, p < .001) and waist circumference (β = .162, p < .001). Sedentary behavior was not associated with blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or physical activity. CONCLUSIONS The consequences of sedentary behavior may differ across groups. Evaluating the relationship between sedentary behavior and CVD risk is critical in identifying behaviors contributing to CVD.