Sedentary Lifestyle and the Threat of Obesity Among Young People

Abstract

Sedentary lifestyle has become a global issue that has an increasingly significant impact, especially among teenagers. Technological advances and social changes have led to an increase in time spent on activities that require minimal physical movement, such as watching television, playing games, and using electronic devices. This phenomenon is correlated with the increasing prevalence of obesity at a young age, which is one of the main risk factors for chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. This study aims to explore the relationship between sedentary lifestyle and obesity among adolescents, as well as identify the drivers of these behaviors. The research method used is literature study (library research) with a qualitative approach. Data was collected from various scientific journals, books, and official reports published in the last five years (2019-2024). The data analysis technique applied is content analysis to identify themes and patterns related to sedentary lifestyle and obesity. The results showed that the duration of high sedentary activity correlated with an increased risk of obesity by up to 30% in adolescents. Environmental, social, and technological factors play a major role in driving sedentary behavior. Early intervention involving increased physical activity, nutrition education, and public health policies can be an effective solution in reducing the risk of obesity among adolescents.