Abstract
BackgroundPhysical activity (PA) is one of the most important factors for improving population health, but no standardised systems exist for international surveillance. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was developed for international surveillance. The purpose of this study was a comparative international study of population physical activity prevalence across 20 countries.MethodsBetween 2002–2004, a standardised protocol using IPAQ was used to assess PA participation in 20 countries [total N = 52,746, aged 18–65 years]. The median survey response rate was 61%. Physical activity levels were categorised as "low", "moderate" and "high". Age-adjusted prevalence estimates are presented by sex.ResultsThe prevalence of "high PA" varied from 21–63%; in eight countries high PA was reported for over half of the adult population. The prevalence of "low PA" varied from 9% to 43%. Males more frequently reported high PA than females in 17 of 20 countries. The prevalence of low PA ranged from 7–41% among males, and 6–49% among females. Gender differences were noted, especially for younger adults, with males more active than females in most countries. Markedly lower physical activity prevalence (10% difference) with increasing age was noted in 11 of 19 countries for males, but only in three countries for women. The ways populations accumulated PA differed, with some reporting mostly vigorous intensity activities and others mostly walking.ConclusionThis study demonstrated the feasibility of international PA surveillance, and showed that IPAQ is an acceptable surveillance instrument, at least within countries. If assessment methods are used consistently over time, trend data will inform countries about the success of their efforts to promote physical activity.
Highlights
Physical inactivity is an established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes, which along with chronic respiratory disease account for more than 60% of all deaths [1]
There is a significant gap in international physical activity surveillance, compared to surveillance of other chronic disease risk factors [6]
Measurement properties were similar to those of other physical activity surveys used in developed countries [12] with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) offering broader applicability to a wide range of countries and cultures
Summary
Physical inactivity is an established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes, which along with chronic respiratory disease account for more than 60% of all deaths [1]. Despite global concerns about non-communicable disease in LMC [4], increasing obesity, and rapid changes in patterns of work, transport and recreation, physical activity surveillance and monitoring is only carried out in a few countries [5]. There is a significant gap in international physical activity surveillance, compared to surveillance of other chronic disease risk factors [6]. This gap makes it difficult to estimate the impact of physical inactivity on health outcomes. The World Health Organization pooled prevalence estimates to estimate the attributable risk of physical inactivity in the global burden of non-communicable diseases [1,7]. The purpose of this study was a comparative international study of population physical activity prevalence across 20 countries
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