Association Of Physical Activity Levels Research Articles

Cross-sectional association of physical activity levels with risks of sarcopenia among older Taiwanese adults

ObjectivesThe updated World Health Organization 2020 guidelines strongly recommend an optimal physical activity level of 150–300 min/week for older adults. However, few studies have examined the relationship between different levels of physical activity and sarcopenia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the cross-sectional associations between overall physical activity levels, gender, intensity, and the risk of sarcopenia among older Taiwanese adults.MethodsA nationwide cross-sectional telephone survey of older adults (≥ 65 years) was conducted in Taiwan from October 2019 to January 2020. Participants were interviewed to collect self-reported data on their level of physical activity (measured by the Taiwanese version of the IPAQ-SF), sarcopenia risk (measured by the SARC-F questionnaire), and sociodemographics.ResultsA total of 1068 older adults were surveyed. Compared with the optimal physical activity level recommendations in the WHO guidelines and after adjusting for potential confounders and proposing an association independent of sedentary behavior, older adults with insufficient physical activity levels (< 150 min/week) were more likely to have a higher risk of sarcopenia (OR: 3.24; CI: 1.67–6.27), whereas older adults who exceeded physical activity guidelines (> 300 min/week) were more likely to have a lower risk of sarcopenia (OR: 0.39; CI: 0.20–0.78). Maintaining moderate-intensity physical activity is essential for older adults, as physical activity that exceeds the guidelines can significantly lower the risk of sarcopenia; meanwhile, insufficient physical activity can greatly increase it. Also, there seems to be a similar association between sarcopenia risk across different physical activity levels in vigorous-intensity physical activities in older adults. However, due to the small number of sarcopenia-risk participants who met or exceeded vigorous-intensity physical activity levels, further comparisons between different vigorous-intensity physical activity levels did not show significant differences in sarcopenia risk. Additionally, insufficient physical activity was found to be an important risk factor for sarcopenia in both genders, while physical activity that exceeded the guidelines prevented sarcopenia in females.ConclusionsThe findings of this study highlight the potential dose-response relationship related to physical activity. The 2020 WHO guidelines provide the public with minimum recommendations for physical activity. However, exceeding these recommended levels appears to be more effective in preventing sarcopenia in older adults and may offer even greater health benefits. Future research should further explore whether exceeding these guidelines could result in additional health benefits.

The Association Between Physical Activity and Fatigue Among Adults With Rheumatic Disease in a Nationally Representative Sample.

Adults with rheumatic disease (RD) experience high levels of fatigue. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce fatigue among adults. Despite this evidence, adults with RD are more likely to be physically inactive compared with those without RD. Little information is known about the association of physical activity level and fatigue among adults with RD. This study investigated the association of physical activity level and fatigue among adults with and without RD. Adults (≥18y) who participated in the 2018 National Health Interview Survey (unweighted n = 25,471) were included in this cross-sectional study. Physical activity and fatigue were self-reported. Statistical analyses were weighted to account for complex survey sampling design. Significantly more adults with RD experience fatigue compared with adults without RD (26.19% vs 13.23%). Adults with RD who were inactive had 2.81 times (95% CI, 2.37-3.34) higher odds of experiencing fatigue compared to adults with RD who were sufficiently active, after adjusting for covariates. Overall, fatigue was more common among adults with RD than it was in the population without RD.

The Associations of Physical Activity and Health-Risk Behaviors toward Depressive Symptoms among College Students: Gender and Obesity Disparities.

Engaging in health-risk behaviors (HRBs) may be correlated with depressive symptoms among college students, but these relationships require more research. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations of physical activity levels (i.e., light [LPA] and moderate-vigorous [MVPA]) and HRBs (i.e., sedentary behavior [screen-based and non-screen-based behavior] and cigarette and e-cigarette tobacco use) with depressive symptoms in a sample of college students. Physical activity levels and HRBs were assessed through validated questionnaires. In total, 366 students participated (Mage = 22.59 ± 3.54; 60.1% female; 52.9% normal weight). E-cigarette use in males (β = 0.23, p < 0.05) and screen-based sedentary behavior in females (β = 0.14, p < 0.05) showed significant predictive utility toward depressive symptoms. In the overweight/obese group, screen-based sedentary behaviors (β = 0.19, p < 0.05) and e-cigarette use (β = 0.23, p < 0.01) showed significant predictive utility toward depressive symptoms. Females reported higher levels of depressive symptoms (Mfemale = 18.23 vs. Mmale = 14.81; η2 = 0.03) and less MVPA (Mmale = 52.83 vs. Mfemale = 41.09; η2 = 0.06) than males. Enhancing mental health by improving physical activity and eliminating HRBs should be tailored toward at-risk demographics.

The Effect of Physical Activity Level on the Low Back Pain Incidence Among Dentists in Yogyakarta City

Low back pain (LBP) is a complaint that dentists often encounter because of the tendency to work with static movements for a long duration of time. There are some indicated factors that may involve in the occurrence of the LBP, one of which is the level of physical activity. This study aimed to confirm and understand the association of physical activity level to the incidence of low back pain. The research method was analytical observation with a cross-sectional design. The study used questionnaires on physical activity level and low back pain which were distributed to 76 samples of dentists in the Yogyakarta City area. The data was further analyzed with a chi-square test. The results showed a value of 9.147 with degree of freedom 1 and significance of 0.002. This value is greater than the table's chi-square value of 3.841, which means that there was a significant proportion association between physical activity level and low back pain occurrence

Association of physical activity level and physical fitness with the cognitive function of patients in hemodialysis

This study aimed to correlate cognitive function with the physical activity level (pal) and physical fitness over three years of patients undergoing hemodialysis and to compare the pal and physical fitness over this period of patients with and without cognitive problems. Therefore, a cohort study was carried out, including patients evaluated between 2018 and 2020, through the Mini-Mental State Exam, functional physical record, Elbow Flexion test, Sit-to-stand test, Handgrip Strength test (hgs), and by the physical activity monitor. Data analysis was performed using the Pearson’s Correlation test and the paired Student’s t-test and its non-parametric equivalent, when necessary, with a significance level of 5%. The results showed that cognitive function assessed in the different years of the research was positively correlated with physical fitness and with pal: in 2018, with hgs (r = 0.313; p = 0.019); in 2019, with cardiorespiratory fitness (r = 0.288; p = 0.038), with hgs (r = 235; p = 0.033) and with pal on hd days (r = 359; p = 0.010) and on days without treatment (r = 314; p = 0.026); and in 2020, with the pal up to date without hd (r = 387; p = 0.014). In addition, patients without probable cognitive deficit had higher pal and physical fitness values in all years of analysis compared to those with the probable cognitive deficit: in 2018, this difference was significant in hgs and pal on a day contrary to hemodialysis; in 2019, in cardiorespiratory fitness and pal on a day contrary to treatment; and in 2020, in cardiorespiratory fitness, hgs and pal on both days. It is concluded that patients with higher pal and better physical fitness had a better cognitive function, suggesting the importance of physical activity practice as an effective alternative in improving physical fitness and, consequently, cognitive function in HD patients.

The Association of Physical Activity Level with Micronutrient and Health Status of Austrian Bank Employees

Background: Favorable health benefits of an active lifestyle have been clearly documented within the context of occupational health. However, a knowledge gap exists regarding the monitoring and comparison of micronutrient status across varying levels of physical activity (PA). This study aimed to investigate the association of PA level with micronutrient status and the associated health biomarkers among a cohort of Austrian bank employees. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, this study involved the participation of bank employees (n = 123; average age: 43 years; 49% males) from the federal state of Tyrol, located in the western part of Austria. To assess PA levels and sedentary behavior, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ; developed by the WHO) was administered. Accordingly, participants were categorized into three groups: low PA, moderate PA, and high PA. Participants’ blood samples were obtained to measure blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10. The values of vitamins and minerals in whole-blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and grouped into three categories: below, within, or exceeding the reference range. Results: The prevalence of a high PA level was 61%, while 18% of participants had a low PA level. Overweight/obesity was significantly less prevalent among participants with high PA levels (22%) compared to those with moderate (50%) and low (50%) PA levels (p = 0.045). No significant differences between PA levels were found for sex, age, diet type, homocysteine, or CoQ10 markers (p &gt; 0.05). There was no significant PA-based difference in blood concentrations of most vitamins and minerals (p &gt; 0.05), except for vitamin D (p = 0.001) among females, as well as selenium (p = 0.040) and vitamin B12 (p = 0.048) among males. Conclusion: The present findings offer initial insights into the link between PA behaviors, micronutrient status, and health, highlighting potential implications in occupational health and lifestyle, specifically in developing tailored approaches based on PA levels.

Association between physical activity and depressive symptoms in adolescents: A prospective cohort study

It remains uncertain whether a protective association between physical activity and depression exists among adolescents and what the optimal level of physical activity might be. This study aimed to estimate the associations of physical activity levels with depressive symptoms and new-onset depression, while identifying potential modifying factors influencing the relationships. In this cohort study, we initially enrolled 1957 participants at baseline and followed up with 1738 of them after two years. Our analysis focused on data from 1482 students who provided complete information on both physical activity and depressive symptoms. Generalized linear regression and restricted cubic spline regression models were performed. Our adjusted models revealed that engaging in 4–7 h/week of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) at baseline was negatively associated with subsequent depressive symptoms and new-onset depression compared to the non-MVPA group. However, exceeding 7 h/week of MVPA did not provide substantial benefits. Furthermore, drinking and screen time potentially modified the relationship between MVPA and new-onset depression. Our findings suggest that 4–7 h of MVPA per week may be an appropriate level to reduce depressive symptoms in adolescents. Moreover, individual behaviors (e.g., drinking and screen time) warrant heightened attention in interventions targeting the reduction of depression in this population.

Role of physical activity and health-related fitness on self-confidence and interpersonal relations in 14-year-old adolescents from secondary school settings: DADOS study.

The effect of physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF) on self-confidence and interpersonal relations in adolescents is uncertain. To analyzed the associations of PA and PF with self-confidence and interpersonal relations in adolescents. A total of 268 (138 boys) adolescents (13.9 ± 0.3 years) from the DADOS study were included in the analysis. PA was evaluated using GENEActiv accelerometers and the health-related PF components by the ALPHA health-related fitness test battery. The levels of self-confidence and interpersonal relations were determined by the Behavior Assessment System for Children Level 3. The associations of PA levels and PF components with self-confidence reported positive associations of moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA), standing long jump, and 20-m shuttle run (shuttle run test) tests (all p < 0.05), and negative association of 4 × 10-m shuttle run test (4 × 10-m test), but only the 4 × 10-m test remained significant in the adjusted model for the whole sample and only in boys (p ≤ 0.01) when analyzed by sex. Regarding interpersonal relations, positive associations of standing long jump and shuttle run test (all p < 0.05), and negative association of 4 × 10-mtest were found in all the adolescents. The shuttle run test was associated with interpersonal relations in boys independently of confounders. PA levels were not associated with interpersonal relations. A higher level of lower-limb muscle strength, speed-agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness might improve self-confidence and interpersonal relations in adolescents, but these relationships seem to be influenced by sex, body mass index, and pubertal status. Speed-agility and cardiorespiratory fitness seem to have a stronger impact on boys. MVPA may improve self-confidence in adolescents.

The Association of Physical Activity Level with Body Awareness and Balance in Individuals with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Abstract Background This study aimed to examine the association of physical activity level with body awareness and balance in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). In addition, the effects of disease-specific parameters on static and dynamic balance functions were investigated. Material and Methods Sixty-four volunteers (36 female, 28 male) were included. AS disease activity, functional level, and spinal mobility were evaluated with disease-specific indexes. Physical activity level was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, body awareness with the Body Awareness Questionnaire, static balance with the Single Leg Stance Test, and dynamic balance with the Timed Up and Go Test and the Four Square Step Test. Results There was a relationship between physical activity level and body awareness (p&lt;0.05), but no correlation was found with the disease-specific assessments and balance measurements (p&gt;0.05). While BASFI was found to be significantly associated with both static and dynamic balance, it was noted that BASMI was just related with FSST (p&lt;0.05), and BASDAI was not correlated with any balance test (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion As a result of our study, we observed that physical activity level was associated with body awareness, but not with balance. Also, it was recorded that the functional status of individuals with AS is closely related with static and dynamic balance and dynamic balance is partially influenced by spinal mobility.

Alarming low physical activity levels in Chilean adults with disabilities during COVID-19 pandemic: a representative national survey analysis.

People with disabilities usually face barriers to regularly engaging in physical activities. Estimating physical activity patterns are necessary to elaborate policies and strategies to facilitate active lifestyles, considering the particular access difficulties experienced by this population. This study aimed (i) to describe the prevalence of physical activity levels and (ii) to examine the associations of physical activity levels with socio-demographic variables and type of disability in the 2020 Chilean National Physical Activity and Sports Habits in Populations with Disabilities (CNPASHPwD) survey during the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Cross-sectional data from 3,150 adults (18-99 years old), 59.8% female, were analyzed from November to December 2020. Self-reported age, gender, type of disability (i.e., physical, visual, hearing, intellectual, or mixed), socio-economic status, area and zone of residence, and physical activity levels (0 min/week, < 150 min/week, ≥ 150 min/week) were obtained. 11.9% of the participants were classified as active (≥ 150 min/week), and 62.6% declared no involvement in physical activity. A larger proportion of females (61.7%) did not meet the current guidelines (≥ 150 min/week of physical activity) in comparison with males (p < 0.001). Participants with visual and hearing disabilities were more likely to be active than those with other types of disabilities. Those living in the central and southern regions of Chile were more likely to be physically active than those from the northern region. Also, older participants, women, and those from lower socio-economic statuses were less likely to meet the physical activity guidelines. Alarmingly, nine out of ten participants were categorized as physically inactive, particularly women, older adults, and those with a low socioeconomic status. If the pandemic context moderated, the considerable prevalence of reduced physical activity levels deserves future exploration. Health promotion initiatives should consider these aspects, emphasizing inclusive environments and increasing opportunities to favor healthy behaviors, countering the COVID-19 effects.

Abstract 743: Association between physical activity and lipid profile among breast cancer survivors

Abstract Backgrounds/Aims: Unfavorable lipid profiles may be associated with prognosis among breast cancer survivors. We aimed to examine the association between physical activity levels and subclasses of lipoprotein among breast cancer survivors. Methods: We included a total of 378 women diagnosed with primary breast cancer and survived for ≥6 months since the surgery. Physical activity levels were presented as the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) hours/week from a structured questionnaire. High-throughput proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics platform was used to quantify plasma levels of specific lipid biomarkers and particle sizes. The multivariable adjusted least-square means (LS-means) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of lipid profile markers across physical activity (quartile) were estimated by using generalized linear models. Results: We observed inverse associations of physical activity levels with circulating levels of total triglycerides (TG), TG in very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and TG in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) among breast cancer survivors. LS-means (95% CIs) for 1st and 4th quartiles of physical activity were 1.07 (0.99-1.17) and 0.96 (0.88-1.04; p for trend=0.048) for total TG (nmol/L), 0.68 (0.62-0.74) and 0.60 (0.54-0.66; p for trend=0.045) for TG in VLDL (nmol/L), and 0.14 (0.13-0.15) and 0.12 (0.11-0.13; p for trend=0.045) for TG in HDL (nmol/L). These associations were limited to breast cancer survivors with stage II or III. We also found a smaller VLDL size with high physical activity among those with stage II or III. Among participants with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2, we found that high physical activity was associated with decreased levels of TG in VLDL and small VLDL size; according to subsequent quartiles of physical activity, LS-means (95% CIs) were 0.73 (0.62-0.87), 0.88 (0.72-1.08), 0.74 (0.61-0.89), and 0.56 (0.44-0.71) for TG in VLDL (nmol/L), respectively (p for trend=0.047); and 38.67 (38.34-39.00), 38.75 (38.36-39.15), 38.65 (38.28-39.01), and 37.98 (37.52-38.45) for VLDL size (nm), respectively (p for trend=0.024). Conclusions: We found that high physical activity was associated with lower circulating levels of subclasses of TG and smaller VLDL size among breast cancer survivors with stage II or III or those with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2. Further prospective or randomized controlled studies are warranted to confirm the significance of physical activity associated with favorable lipid profiles among breast cancer survivors. Funding Information: This research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (Ministry of Science and ICT, MSIT) (No. 2014R1A2A2A01007794, 2019R1F1A1061017, and 2021R1F1A1062476) and K-BIO KIURI Center program (NRF2020M3H1A107330413). Citation Format: Hyun Jeong Cho, Minji Kang, Zisun Kim, Hyun Jo Youn, Jihyoung Cho, Jun Won Min, Yoo Seok Kim, Jung Eun Lee. Association between physical activity and lipid profile among breast cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 743.

Sex differences in the association of physical activity levels and vitamin D with obesity, sarcopenia, and sarcopenic obesity: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe relationship between vitamin D and sarcopenia was inconsistent between men and women. Physical activity (PA) may interact with vitamin D on sarcopenia. However, the sex-specific relationships of vitamin D, PA and sarcopenia have yet elucidated. We aimed to examine the sex differences in the relation between vitamin D status, PA levels, obesity and sarcopenia in community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults, as well as whether vitamin D status is a modifier in the relationship between PA and sarcopenia.MethodsThe current study was a cross-sectional study based on the baseline survey of the West China Health and Aging Trend (WCHAT) study. A total of 3713 participants aged ≥ 50y were included in our study. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 consensus. Obesity was defined by body mass index (BMI) (≥ 28 kg/m2) and body fat mass percentage (≥ 60th percentile in each sex group). 25-hydroxyvitamin D was measured by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay and PA was evaluated by a validated China Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (CLTPAQ). Multinomial logistic regression was performed to examine the relationship between PA, vitamin D and sarcopenia and obesity.ResultsLow PA was significantly associated with higher odds of sarcopenia in women only (OR = 1.70,95%CI:1.18,2.46, p < 0.01). Vitamin D deficiency was only associated with sarcopenia in men (OR = 1.85,95%CI: 1.27,2.69, p < 0.01). Low PA was significantly associated with obesity, sarcopenia, and sarcopenic obesity only in participants with serum 25(OH)D < 20 ng/ml.ConclusionsThe role of vitamin D and PA in obesity and sarcopenia was different between men and women, and the relationship between PA and sarcopenia was modified by serum vitamin D status. These findings highlighted the need to supplement vitamin D in individuals with physical inactivity and provide different interventions strategies to sarcopenia in men and women.Trial registrationClinical trial number: ChiCTR1800018895.

The joint associations of physical activity and TV viewing time with COVID-19 mortality: An analysis of UK Biobank

ABSTRACT We used logistic regression to investigate the joint associations of physical activity level (high: ≥3000 MET-min/week, moderate: ≥600 MET-min/week, low: not meeting either criteria) and TV viewing time (low: ≤1 h/day, moderate: 2–3 h/day, high: ≥4 h/day) with COVID-19 mortality risk in UK Biobank. Additional models were performed with adjustment for body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. Within the 373, 523 included participants, there were 940 COVID-19 deaths between 16 March 2020 and 12 November 2021. Compared to highly active individuals with a low TV viewing time, highly active individuals with a high TV viewing time were at significantly higher risk of COVID-19 mortality (odds ratio = 1.54, 95% confidence interval = 1.11–2.15). However, the greatest risk was observed for the combination of a low physical activity level and a high TV viewing time (2.29, 1.63–3.21). After adjusting for either BMI or waist circumference, only this latter combination remained at a significantly higher risk, although the effect estimate was attenuated by 43% and 48%, respectively. In sum, a high TV viewing time may be a risk factor for COVID-19 mortality even amongst highly active individuals. Higher adiposity appears to partly explain the elevated risk associated with a low physical activity level and a high TV viewing time.

Association of Physical Activity level with the COVID-19 Incidence in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Association of Physical Activity level with the COVID-19 Incidence in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Physical Activity as a Means to Improve Subjective Vitality of University Students

ABSTRACTPurpose: This study compared physical self-concept and subjective vitality of police, physical education, and psychology students. Moreover, the study investigated whether students who reported a higher level of physical activity differently rated physical self-concept and subjective vitality and whether physical activity was associated with subjective vitality. Methods: The study sample included 422 university students (249 females) from three state academic institutions: University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies (n = 165), Faculty of Sport and Physical Education (n = 156) and Faculty of Psychology (n = 101). The mean age was 20.85 ± 3.59 years. They completed a physical self-description questionnaire, the subjective vitality scale, and a physical activity questionnaire using the Survey Monkey platform. Multivariate analysis of variance investigated the differences in physical activity, physical self and vitality, while regression analysis investigated the association of physical self and physical activity with subjective vitality. Results: Police students and physical education students reported higher levels of physical activity and perceived higher their own physical self and subjective vitality than psychology students. From the whole sample, students who were sufficiently physically active also scored higher on physical self-concept and subjective vitality. There was a significant association of physical activity level with subjective vitality. Conclusion: Physical activity was directly associated with students’ subjective evaluation of their own health. It can be concluded that students should aim to attain a minimum of 150 min per week of physical activity. Students and faculties should be involved in the attainment of minimal levels of physical activity. This could improve students’ subjective perception of self, along with objective measures of health and wellbeing.

The association of physical activity with loneliness, social isolation, and selected psychological protective factors among older adults

The primary objectives were to investigate the association of physical activity levels with 1) loneliness and social isolation; 2) protective factors: resilience, purpose-in-life, and perception of aging; and 3) the impact of these factors on healthcare expenditure patterns across physical activity levels. The study sample was identified from adults age ≥65 who completed a health survey in 2018 or 2019 (N=6,652). Among survey respondents, the prevalence of low, moderate, and high physical activity levels was 29%, 31%, and 41%, respectively. Moderate and high physical activity were associated with 15%-30% lower likelihoods of loneliness and social isolation; and with 27% to 150% higher protective factors. In addition, physical activity was associated with the mitigation of increased healthcare expenditures associated with loneliness, social isolation, and low levels of protective factors. Thus, physical activity could serve as an intervention to reduce loneliness and social isolation, augment protective factors, and mitigate excess healthcare expenditures.

Association of Physical Activity Level, Income and Environmental Factors Among Chinese Adults

The purpose of this study was to evaluate associations between physical activity level and income and environmental factors among chinese adults. Through the empirical study of the survey data, it is found that: (1) after controlling for the relevant variables, residents' income has a positive impact on residents' participation in physical activities, and the regression coefficient is 0.541 (P < 0.01) (2) In the regression model after adding environmental variables, the regression coefficient of environmental variables increased from 0.401 (P < 0.01) to the highest 1.32 (P < 0.01) (3) Through the comparison of the KHB decomposition method, the intermediary effect of residents' income on environmental factors and participation in physical activities is 0.134 (P < 0.01), and the intermediary effect ratio is 27.01%. Suggestions: first, the government and society should actively provide public goods needed for physical activities to meet the needs of residents for physical activities; second, the government should strengthen the supply of sports facilities in residential areas, speed up the transformation of villages in cities and improve the living conditions in residential areas; third, through legislation to protect residents' income, improving income is not only to give citizens enough sense of security and happiness but also a way to improve residents' participation in physical activities.

The Association Between Physical Activity Level and Severity of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Single Centre Study in Saudi Arabia.

Background and aimKnee osteoarthritis (OA) is a disabling joint disease that results in degeneration of the joint cartilage. Many studies demonstrate the risk factors and complications of knee osteoarthritis, but how physical activity impacts the osteoarthritis severity needs to be studied. The study aimed to assess the impact and association of physical activity level with the severity of knee osteoarthritis among patients attending a single center in the Aseer region, southwest Saudi Arabia.MethodsAn analytical cross-sectional study was conducted targeting all patients clinically diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis in the Aseer region from June 2021 to September 2021. Data was collected using a pre-structured online questionnaire. The questionnaire included patients' socio-demographic data and clinical data on knee osteoarthritis. The level of physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The severity of knee osteoarthritis was assessed using the index of severity for osteoarthritis of the knee.ResultsOut of 473 patients clinically diagnosed with knee OA, only 145 patients met our inclusion criteria. Patients' ages ranged from 35 years to 71 years, with a mean age of 44.3 (±12.9) years. A total of 122 (84.1%) patients were females. Sixty-five (44.8%) patients complained of knee OA for less than two years, 46 (31.7%) for two to five years, and 34 (23.4%) were diagnosed for more than five years. A total of 96 (66.2%) had a low level of physical activity, 32 (22.1%) had a moderate level of physical activity, while 17 (11.7%) had a high level of physical activity. Thirty-eight (26.2%) cases complained of extremely severe knee OA, 37 (25.5%) had very severe knee OA, 28 (19.3%) complained of severe knee OA, 36 (24.9%) had mild to moderate knee OA, while six (4.1%) had minimal knee OA. There was a significant beneficial effect of physical activity on the severity of knee OA.ConclusionThe study revealed that physical activity, especially at high levels, was associated with lower knee OA severity which means a beneficial effect. Most of the patients included in the study had severe to extremely severe knee OA with low physical activity levels.

Physical Activity Level and Its Association with Mental Health and Quality of Life in Females during Menses

Background: During a normal menstrual cycle, the lining of a woman's uterus sheds. This cycle is part of a woman's reproductive system and prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. It is also called a period, menses or cycle. A menstrual cycle is considered to begin on the first day of a period. The average cycle is 28 days long; however, a cycle can range in length from 21 days to about 35 days. Girls start menstruating at the average age of 12, but it can range from 8-16 years. The most common symptoms that is been seen during menses are Moodiness, Trouble sleeping, Food cravings, Cramps in the lower abdomen and back. Physical activity plays a key role in maintaining or improving an individual’s wellness. Physical activity (PA) is beneficial for women’s health as it is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease; breast and colon cancers; type 2 diabetes; osteoporosis; and other adverse health outcomes and also reduces the risk of depression and perceived stress levels. Some women report low physical activity level and energy level during the time of menses. Data from various literatures suggests that there is high prevalence of anemia in India and during menses, due blood loss, the severity level increases. During menses, due to blood loss, hormonal level fluctuations, there occurs extreme pain, mood swings, social stigma as a part of culture; all this alters the mental health status and quality of life. Purpose of the study: To determine the Physical activity level in females during menses. The objective is to find the association of Physical activity level with mental health and quality of life. Methodology: A google form was shared in whatsapp consisting of all 3 questionnaires (IAPQ- International Physical activity questionnaire short form), Quality of life was assessed through (WHOBREF). Mental health was assessed by General health questionnaire (GH-12).The consent and details of the study were also mentioned in the form. All the data were analysed. Results: A total 100 responses were analyzed and out of that 55% were physically active and remaining 45% were inactive. For the association of PA level with quality of life and mental health status, there was a significant association (p&lt;0.05) Conclusions: The overall PA level is 55% in this study. There is also positive influence of PA on general health aspects. Given that a proper understanding of physical activity and doing it on a regular basis can be effective in the health and life of young women and also improving the mental health status and overall quality of life. Keywords: Physical activity, mental health and Quality of life. Keywords:[Physical activity, Mental health, Quality of life, Menses]

Small steps, strong shield: directly measured, moderate physical activity in 65 361 adults is associated with significant protective effects from severe COVID-19 outcomes

ObjectiveTo determine the association between directly measured physical activity and hospitalisation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, ventilation and mortality rates in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19.MethodsDirectly measured physical...