Physical Activity Levels and Associated Factors for Health Complaints among Female University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia: A University-based Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Objective: This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of health complaints and physical activity levels among female university students; including determining the risk factors of health complaints during the pandemic.Material and Methods: Data were collected from 205 female university students, aged 18-29 years old via self-administered online questionnaires during a nationwide movement-restricted order. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and a modified health symptoms questionnaire were used to assess physical activity levels and health complaints.Results: The most prevalent daily health complaint was sleeping difficulties (8.3%). The total minutes of sedentary behaviour were positively associated with health complaints (r=0.131, p-value=0.031), while the total minutes of moderate recreation were negatively associated with health complaints (r=-0.166, p-value=0.009). Marital status (standardised beta coefficient, β=-0.167, p-value=0.030) and employment (β=-0.180, p-value=0.017) were risks of health complaints.Conclusion: Sedentariness; including sociodemographic factors during the pandemic was associated with healthcomplaints. Appropriate counselling, finance and social supports and physical activity programmes are recommended atuniversities to prevent future health risks.