Malta’s sedentary lifestyle : a risk management approach

Abstract

Sedentary behaviour has been increasing in Malta in the past few years since the Maltese population has become more inclined towards a higher level of education and having a sedentary job. This study aims at looking into the risks associated with sedentary behaviour in Malta through a risk management approach by identifying the main lifestyle factors that are strongly related to sedentary behaviour within the Maltese population. In addition to this, this study aims at identifying the effectiveness of existing policies and campaigns and to propose risk treatment options in order to address sedentary behaviour. To conduct this study, data was collected through a self-completion questionnaire which was aimed at people aged over 18 that reside in Malta. The author managed to collect 405 responses which were filtered down to 400 adequate responses. The data was then analysed using Stata by running a regression analysis to identify which factors are statistically significant in order to establish which factors are related with sedentary behaviour. From the regression analysis, it was found that the variables that are highly influencing sedentary behaviour among the Maltese population are gender, age, income and sedentary time at school/work. Furthermore, a separate regression analysis was performed in relation to BMI and it identified age and sport practice as being statistically significant. The study also concluded that existing policies and campaigns are not promoted adequately making them ineffective. This study found that future policies and campaigns should look into reducing time spent at work, introducing more public spaces and reducing the number cars on the road. Future policies and campaigns should take into account the main contributing factors of sedentary behaviour whilst raising awareness about the risks related to leading a sedentary lifestyle in Malta.