Return to Research Areas at ORI

The growing epidemic of childhood obesity is largely due to the sedentary lifestyle typical of today’s children.  As a result, children are suffering from the adult form of diabetes, and they are at much increased risk for heart disease.  

ORI scientists are studying this national public health concern.  We are following a sample of youths in Portland, Oregon, from early teens to young adulthood, to learn about their physical activity over time.  Both boys and girls, but particularly girls, become even less active over their teenage years. This increasingly sedentary lifestyle is supported by their friends and families, and by the lack of opportunity for physical recreation in the neighborhood.

Now that we know more about their changing activity levels, we will use this knowledge to find ways to inspire young people to lead healthier, fitter lives. 

Additionally, ORI scientists are committed to promoting physical activity as people age and we have several projects to study healthy aging. Our research in Tai Chi exercise with sedentary senior citizens has shown positive results.

Current Grants

Translating and Implementing Fall Prevention Research through Clinical Practice (TC Practice)

Investigators are determining whether an evidence-based Tai Chi fall prevention program can be disseminated through healthcare provider referrals of older patients who are at risk of falling.

Principal Investigator: Fuzhong Li

Co-Investigator: Peter Harmer

Project Period: 9/1/09 - 8/31/12

National Center for Injury Prevention and Control - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Tai Chi and Parkinson's Disease (TCPD)

Scientists are examining, in a single-blind, randomized controlled trial, whether Tai Chi can improve postural balance and lower-extremity muscle strength, and reduce frequency of falls among early to moderately advanced Parkinson's disease patients.

Principal Investigator: Fuzhong Li

Co-Investigator: Peter Harmer

Project Period: 12/19/07 - 11/30/11

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Environmental Predictors of Elderly Obesity (Obesity)

Research scientists are examining how the physical and built environment in neighborhoods influence levels of overweight and obesity, physical activity, and blood pressure in older individuals.

Principal Investigator: Fuzhong Li

Co-Investigators: John Fisher and Peter Harmer

Project Period: 9/6/05 - 7/31/09

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences