Leisure-time physical activity among adults in Estonia 2000 − 2016

Abstract

Abstract Background Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) can be an effective tool in the prevention and treatment of the majority of noncommunicable diseases, which are the leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, the knowledge on the level and trends of LTPA is an important task for the public health sector and enables identification of adults at high risk of hypokinetic diseases. The aim of this study was to describe LTPA trend among adults in Estonia in 2000-2016 and to analyze the association between LTPA and sociodemographic, -economic, health- and work-related factors, and risk behaviours. Methods This study was based on 25 − 64-year-old adults (n = 16,903) of the postal cross-sectional surveys of Health Behaviour among Estonian Adult Population in 2000-2016. For data analysis, LTPA was divided into two categories: physically active (at least 2 − 3 times per week) and physically inactive (less than 2 times a week). Chi-square test was used to analyze changes in prevalence trend of LTPA over the study period. Logistic regression analysis was used to test associations between LTPA and different factors. Results The prevalence of LTPA increased from 26.2% to 42.6% among men (p < 0.001) and from 28.0% to 43.6% among women (p < 0.001) in Estonia in 2000-2016. Odds to be physically active during leisure time was significantly associated with marital status, education, income, economic activity, self-rated health, body mass index and smoking status among men and women. Compared to adults with basic education, men and women with higher education had higher odds (OR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.30 − 2.01; OR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.10 − 1.68, respectively) to be physically active. LTPA was associated with age among men and with nationality and alcohol use among women only. Conclusions Based on the study results, health promotion activities should be addressed in particular to the adults with lower LTPA paying attention to the factors associated with LTPA. Key messages LTPA increased significantly among men and women in Estonia in 2000 − 2016 being higher among women than men. Health promotion activities should be addressed in particular to the adults with lower LTPA paying attention to the different factors associated with LTPA.