Abstract
To assess the association between regular physical activity in adolescence and leisure-time physical activity in adulthood, with emphasis on gender differences. A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Pelotas, Southern Brazil, in 2003. A representative sample of households was selected in multiple stages and subjects aged 20-59 years were interviewed. Leisure-time physical activity was evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Data on adolescent physical activity were based on subjects' recall. Of 2,577 subjects interviewed, 27.5% were classified as adequately active, and 54.9% reported regular physical activity in adolescence. Subjects who engaged in regular physical activity during adolescence were more likely to be adequately active in adulthood (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.42; 95% CI: 1.23; 1.65). This effect was stronger in women (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.22; 1.86) than men (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.10; 1.67). Promoting physical activity in school age may be a successful intervention against the epidemic of adult inactivity. Although women were less likely to report regular physical activity in adolescence, the effect of this experience on adult behavior was stronger than in men.
Highlights
The benefits of physical activity over health are wellestablished.[3]
Subjects who engaged in regular physical activity during adolescence were more likely to be adequately active in adulthood
The literature shows a non-consistent effect of adolescent physical activity on adult activity behavior
Summary
A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Pelotas, a medium-sized (320,000 inhabitants) southern Brazilian city, in the last trimester of 2003. The main independent variable used was regular physical activity in adolescence (10-19 years of age). This variable was based on subjects’ recall. Other variables included in the analyses were as follows: sex, age, skin color (white or black/mulatto according to the interviewers’ perception), and economic condition.* Those reporting to have engaged in physical activity in adolescence were asked to indicate the main reason for this practice: (a) “because I enjoyed it” or (b) “I was somehow forced”. Data were collected during household visits through face-to-face interviews Those who were not able to answer the questionnaire by themselves (hearing and mentally impaired and multiple sclerosis individuals) were excluded.
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