Question

Poor fitness in adolescents and adults increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. In a study of 3110 adolescents and 2205 adults ( Journal of the American Medical Association, December 21,2005\(),\) researchers found \(33.6 \%\) of adolescents and \(13.9 \%\) of adults were unfit; the percentage was similar in adolescent males \((32.9 \%)\) and females \((34.4 \%),\) but was higher in adult females \((16.2 \%)\) than in adult males \((11.8 \%)\). a. Summarize this information using a comparative bar graph that shows differences between males and females within the two different age groups. b. Comment on the interesting features of your graphical display.

Short answer

The comparative bar graph shows that the percentage of unfit individuals is higher among adolescents compared to adults, with little differentiation between males and females within the adolescent group. However, in the adult group, the percentage of unfit individuals is higher among females compared to males.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Provided Data

We are told that the total number of adolescents in the study is 3110 and the total number of adults is 2205. There is also information about the percentage of unfit individuals within these categories and further broken down by gender. In terms of percentages, we know that: 33.6% of adolescents and 13.9% of adults are unfit. Among these unfit groups, 32.9% are adolescent males and 34.4% are adolescent females. From the adults, 11.8% are males and 16.2% are females.

Create Comparative Bar Graph

In order to create the comparative bar graph, we need to convert the percentages into actual numbers. For example, the number of unfit adolescents equals to \(33.6% \times 3110\), and so on for each category. The X-axis of our bar graph will represent the categories (adolescent males, adolescent females, adult males, and adult females), and the Y-axis will represent the number of unfit individuals. You need to draw four bars representing the above four categories, each of their height corresponding to the number of unfit individuals in that category. The bar graph will help to visually compare the differences between categories.

Interpret the Graph

Once the graph is properly created, take time to analyze the graph. The heights of the bars will show the differences in unfitness between different age groups and between males and females within these groups.

Key concepts

Percentage Calculations

Percentage calculations are essential when analyzing data, especially in determining quantities within a population. To find the number of unfit individuals in each group, we use percentage formulas. For instance, if 33.6% of adolescents are unfit, and the total number of adolescents is 3110, we calculate: \[\text{Number of unfit adolescents} = \frac{33.6}{100} \times 3110\] This approach applies similarly to other groups, revealing the proportions of their population. Understanding percentages helps in graphical comparisons and discussions of trends within data sets.

Gender Differences in Fitness

Gender differences in fitness indicate varying levels of physical performance and health risks across males and females. In the study, it was interesting to note that while adolescent males and females had similar unfitness percentages (32.9% for males and 34.4% for females), adult females had a higher unfitness rate compared to adult males (16.2% versus 11.8%). This information helps illustrate how fitness trends shift with age and gender. It's crucial for addressing specific health interventions needed for each demographic group. Observing these differences through a comparative bar graph can highlight prevalence patterns and inform targeted public health strategies.

Data Analysis

Data analysis involves interpreting and presenting collected data meaningfully. By breaking data into categories—such as adolescent males, adolescent females, adult males, and adult females—we can create a comparative bar graph. This visual representation provides a clear view of differences in fitness levels among these groups.

• The X-axis categorizes the groups by age and gender.
• The Y-axis shows the number of unfit individuals.

The analysis becomes more tangible as one can visibly see disparities. The bar heights underscore the contrast between groups, assisting in hypothesizing potential socio-environmental or biological factors contributing to these unfitness rates.

Cardiovascular Disease Risk

Understanding the risk of cardiovascular disease related to fitness is crucial for preventive health measures. Poor fitness in both adolescents and adults has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The study's data highlights significant differences in fitness levels across age and gender, shedding light on varied risk profiles. With adult women showing a higher unfitness percentage, they could potentially be at a greater risk of cardiovascular disease compared to their male counterparts. Identifying high-risk groups allows healthcare providers to focus efforts on reducing these risks through lifestyle changes and interventions. This understanding helps in forming health policies directed at improving fitness and consequently lowering heart disease risks in specific populations.