Association between type of physical activity and risk factors for cardiovascular disease, Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

Background: Little is known about the role of occupational-related physical activity and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Aims: This study aimed to assess the association between different types of physical activity (work-related, transport-related, home-time and leisure-time) and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in a sample of Iranian workers. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from February to November 2018 among 415 workers of a rubber factory in Tehran province. Physical activity levels of the participants were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Blood sample were analysed for cardiovascular disease risk factors (fasting blood sugar ≥ 100 mg/dL, triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL, total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL, systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85 mmHg and waist circumference ≥ 102 cm). Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were also measured, as was body mass index (BMI). Results: Risk factors for cardiovascular disease differed significantly according to type of physical activity. Fasting blood sugar ≥ 100 mg/dL and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 had a significant negative association with overall physical activity level (P < 0.001). In a logistic regression analysis, leisure-time physical activity had a significant negative correlation with all risk factors for cardiovascular disease after adjusting for age and smoking. Conclusion: Leisure-time physical activity has a more important role in reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors than other types of activity, including work-related physical activity.