Learning network for Advanced Behavioural Data Analysis (LABDA)

Recently, there has been a paradigm shift from the isolated focus on the health impact of a single behaviour (i.e. PA, sedentary behaviour or sleep) to the combination of these 24/7 movement behaviours for maximum health benefits. However, current public health guidelines are largely based on inaccurate self-report data and are, therefore, rather general (e.g. "move more and sit less"). Technological advancements have led to wearable sensor techniques providing rich time-series data over longer periods. Consequently, novel analysis methods are required to provide detailed insight into the links between multi-dimensional 24/7 movement behaviour profiles and health; which subgroups need particular attention; and what behavioural profiles are most important to target in interventions.
Developing such novel analysis methods, essential for creating the evidence base needed for optimal, tailored guidelines and feedback, requires a specific combination of knowledge and skills in epidemiology, data science, method development, and public health with a thorough understanding of what is needed to translate knowledge to guidelines and improve wearable technology feedback. In LABDA, we will therefore train 10 doctoral fellows to advance this interdisciplinary field and deliver a toolbox of advanced analysis methods for sensor-based behavioural data, together with a guide for other researchers and policy makers to decide which methods to use for which (research) question.