Changes In Physical Activity Research Articles

Changes in physical activity among Canadian adults more than 6 months into the COVID-19 pandemic: a secondary analysis of the INTERACT cohort study

ObjectiveTo estimate the effect of (a) the COVID-19 pandemic and (b) COVID-19 restriction stringency on daily minutes of device-measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).DesignPhysical activity data were collected from the INTerventions,...

A Pilot Study on the Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiorespiratory Performance, Quality of Life, and Immunologic Variables in Long COVID.

Objectives: Fatigue is a prominent feature of long COVID (LC) and may be related to several pathophysiologic mechanisms, including immune hyperstimulation. Aerobic endurance exercise training may be a useful therapy, with appropriate attention to preventing post-exertional malaise. Methods: Fourteen participants completed a pilot study of aerobic exercise training (twenty 1.5 h sessions of over 10 weeks). Cardiorespiratory fitness, 6 min walk distance, quality of life, symptoms, 7-day physical activity, immunophenotype, and inflammatory biomarkers were measured before and after exercise training. Results: The participant characteristics at baseline were as follows: 53.5 ± 11.6 yrs, 53% f, BMI 32.5 ± 8.4, 42% ex-smokers, 15.1 ± 8.8 months since initial COVID-19 infection, low normal pulmonary function testing, V.O2peak 19.3 ± 5.1 mL/kg/min, 87 ± 17% predicted. After exercise training, participants significantly increased their peak work rate (+16 ± 20 W, p = 0.010) and V.O2peak (+1.55 ± 2.4 mL/kg/min, p = 0.030). Patients reported improvements in fatigue severity (-11%), depression (-42%), anxiety (-29%), and dyspnea level (-46%). There were no changes in 6MW distance or physical activity. The circulating number of CD3+, CD4+, CD19+, CD14++CD16, and CD16++CD14+ monocytes and CD56+ cells (assessed with flow cytometry) increased with acute exercise (rest to peak) and was not diminished or augmented by exercise training. Plasma concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, INF-γ, and INF-λ were normal at study entry and not affected by training. Conclusions: Aerobic endurance exercise training in individuals with LC delivered beneficial effects on cardiorespiratory fitness, quality of life, anxiety, depression, and fatigue without detrimental effects on immunologic function.

Wearable Device–Based Intervention for Promoting Patient Physical Activity After Lung Cancer Surgery

ImportanceEmerging evidence suggests that wearable devices are feasible for monitoring physical activity among patients with lung cancer. However, the association between wearable devices and improvement in patient recovery after surgery remains underexplored.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of a wearable device intervention on the recovery of physical activity, cardiopulmonary function, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after lung cancer surgery.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsThis nonrandomized clinical trial with a historical control was conducted at a single tertiary cancer center (Samsung Comprehensive Cancer Center) in Seoul, South Korea, between October 18, 2018, and May 24, 2019. Patients were included if they had suspected or confirmed non–small cell lung cancer scheduled for curative surgery more extensive than lobectomy and had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status of 0 or 1. Patients were compared with historical control participants from data collected between September 20, 2017, and September 10, 2018, as part of the Coordinated Approach to Cancer Patients’ Health for Lung Cancer (CATCH-LUNG) prospective cohort study. Data analysis was performed between June 21 and July 16, 2020.InterventionA personalized exercise regimen monitored via a wearable device was administered to intervention patients at home in 3 stages: preoperative (from diagnosis to surgery), immediate (from discharge to 2 months after surgery), and later postoperative (from 2 to 6 months after surgery). Control patients received usual care.Main Outcomes and MeasuresThe primary outcome was cardiopulmonary function, and the co–primary outcome was physical activity at 6 months after surgery, measured with 6-minute walking distance (6MWD) and number of daily steps, using a linear regression model. Secondary outcomes were changes in cardiopulmonary function, physical activity, and HRQOL, including function and symptoms from baseline to 2 weeks and 6 months after surgery. Additionally, cardiopulmonary function and physical activity (number of daily steps and time spent on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]) at 2 weeks after surgery, physical activity (time spent on MVPA) at 6 months after surgery, and HRQOL, including function and symptoms at 2 weeks and 6 months after surgery, were assessed as secondary outcomes.ResultsThis trial included 74 patients in the intervention group (mean [SD] age, 60.4 [8.7] years; 31 [41.9%] men and 43 [58.1%] women) and 120 in the control group (mean [SD] age, 60.2 [8.7] years; 65 [54.2%] men and 55 [45.8%] women). Daily steps, MVPA, and 6MWD decreased initially at 2 weeks after surgery but increased thereafter. The control group had a larger decrease in the number of daily steps from baseline compared with the intervention group (−4877 [95% CI, −5861 to −3893] steps vs −1753 [95% CI, −2968 to −539] steps) at 2 weeks after surgery. By 6 months after surgery, the intervention group increased their daily steps by 2220 (95% CI, 1006 to 3435) from baseline, whereas the control group did not return to their baseline number of steps. The intervention group had significantly more daily steps (12 321 [95% CI, 8749-15 761] vs 10 118 [95% CI, 7341-13 420]; P = .007) and had greater vigorous physical activity (33.6 [95% CI, 13.5 to 59.8] vs 18.5 [5.7 to 40.8] minutes; P = .003) at 6 months after surgery compared with the control group. No difference in 6MWD was found. However, the intervention group had better patient-reported physical function (mean [SD] score, 82.2 [17.3] vs 76.9 [17.5]; P = .04), less dyspnea (mean [SD] score, 24.8 [27.1] vs 34.5 [31.6]; P = .03), and less pain (mean [SD] score, 21.4 [20.2] vs 30.1 [26.8]; P = .01) at 2 weeks after surgery and less dyspnea (mean [SD] score, 5.4[12.4] vs 12[23.3]; P = .01) at 6 months after surgery compared with the control group.Conclusions and RelevanceIn this nonrandomized clinical trial, integration of perioperative exercise interventions using wearable devices improved physical activity (especially MVPA) and dyspnea at 6 months after lung cancer surgery compared with usual care. This finding suggests a promising role for wearable devices in personalizing perioperative rehabilitation strategies.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03215537

The Overflow Effects of Movement Behaviour Change Interventions for Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

Considering the finite time within a 24-h day, the distribution of time spent on movement behaviours has been found to be associated with health outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarise and evaluate the overflow effects of interventions targeting a single behaviour (physical activity, sedentary behaviour/screen time, or sleep) on other non-targeted behaviours among children and adolescents. Six databases (MEDLINE [Ovid], PsycINFO [ProQuest], EMBASE [Ovid], PubMed, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus [EBSCO]) were searched for relevant studies published before 13 May, 2024. Randomised controlled trials and clustered randomised controlled trials that targeted a single behaviour and also assessed the effects on non-targeted behaviours, comprised of healthy children under the age of 18years, were included. Movement behaviours can be measured either objectively or subjectively. The revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials was adopted to evaluate the risk of bias. A total of 102 studies with 45,998 participants from 21 countries were identified, and 60 of them with 26,183 participants were incorporated into the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis demonstrated that physical activity interventions led to a reduction in the proportion of each day spent in sedentary behaviour (mean difference = - 0.95% of wear time, 95% confidence interval - 1.44, - 0.45, I2 = 39%). Sedentary behaviour interventions resulted in increased standing time (mean difference = 3.87%, 95% confidence interval 1.99, 5.75, I2 = 0%). Interventions targeting screen time did not yield changes in physical activity or sleep. The findings on the effectiveness of sleep interventions on non-targeted behaviours and of physical activity interventions on sleep were inconclusive. Overall, the findings suggested that interventions aimed at increasing physical activity or reducing sedentary behaviour had overflow effects on non-targeted behaviours, but the effect sizes were small. Additional evidence is needed to reach definitive conclusions regarding the impact of behaviour change interventions on sleep and of the overflow effects of sleep interventions.

Readiness for behaviour change after gestational diabetes mellitus: A prospective cohort study.

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Readiness for behaviour change to mitigate this risk may be low after pregnancy and may further decrease over time without appropriate interventions. This study aimed to evaluate readiness for behaviour change in the first and second postpartum years in women with recent GDM to determine the best timing for lifestyle interventions to prevent T2D. This study included a subset of women with GDM between 2009 and 2013 in Ontario, Canada from a larger prospective cohort study who completed a survey in the first and second postpartum years (N = 329). The primary outcome was stage of readiness for behaviour change for diet and physical activity, compared between the first and second postpartum years. The mean age was 34.3 ± 4.4 standard deviation (SD) years and mean pre-pregnancy body-mass index (BMI) was 26.7 ± 6.9 kg/m2. In the first postpartum year, 86% of women reported a pre-action stage of change, which was 87% by the second postpartum year (p = 0.646). Non-Caucasian ethnicity was associated with lower odds of being in the action stage of readiness for behaviour change overall and for physical activity in both time periods. Most postpartum women with recent GDM are in a pre-action stage of change after delivery, which does not increase by the second postpartum year. Behavioural interventions should continue to be prioritized in postpartum women with GDM to optimize this slim window of opportunity for T2D prevention.

Lifestyle Interventions for Managing Diabetes and Hypertension: A Holistic Approach

Diabetes and hypertension were two of the most prevalent chronic conditions globally, often occurring together and significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. While traditional management strategies have focused on pharmacological treatments, there was a growing recognition of the need for lifestyle interventions to address the underlying risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. This review explored the scientific basis for lifestyle interventions including dietary modifications, physical activity, stress management, and behavioral changes in managing diabetes and hypertension. Evidence from landmark clinical studies demonstrated the effectiveness of these interventions in improving blood glucose control and reducing blood pressure, often rivaling or complementing medication. The integration of lifestyle interventions into clinical practice, however, presented challenges such as time constraints, patient adherence, and healthcare system limitations. Despite these challenges, opportunities existed to enhance patient outcomes through personalized care, technological advancements, and public health initiatives. The methodology utilized in this review involved a comprehensive analysis of current literature, synthesizing evidence from clinical studies and expert guidelines to provide a holistic approach to managing these chronic conditions. By embedding lifestyle interventions into standard care, healthcare providers can offer a more effective, sustainable, and patient-centered path to better health. Keywords: Diabetes Management, Hypertension, Lifestyle Interventions, Cardiovascular Health, Patient-Centered Care.

Evaluation of an integration community project for asylum seekers in Sweden: physical activity adherence and changes in character traits and life satisfaction

Asylum seekers’ traumatic experiences in combination with discrimination, social isolation, and exclusion in the host country leads to low adherence from health and integration initiatives. Along with their inability to seek health care and physical inactivity, this situation increases their mental illness and, most importantly, decreases their well-being. In fact, the lack of well-being (e.g., life satisfaction) is a better marker of mortality and morbidity than the presence of mental illness. In this context, one of the major single determinants of well-being is character, a dimension of personality that stands for self-regulation, adaptation, and intentional conscious behavior (i.e., goals and values). Host countries often implement integration initiatives including activities aiming to attenuate mental illness, but only a handful are evaluated and reported, with even fewer addressing character development, increases in life satisfaction, or adherence. Our aim was to evaluate the integration initiative “Health for Everyone—Sport, Culture, and Integration”, a 10-week physical activity community project. Specifically, we investigated changes in life satisfaction and character traits (i.e., Self-Directedness, Cooperativeness, and Self-Transcendence) and if these variables, at baseline, predicted adherence and changes in physiological health (i.e., cardiorespiratory fitness, skeletal muscle mass, body fat mass, and visceral fat). Participants (n = 269) answered (pre and post measurements) the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Short Character Inventory, and undertook physiological tests. In addition, their attendance to the physical activity sessions was registered throughout the project (i.e., adherence). Participants showed no significant increases in Self-Directedness, Cooperativeness, or life satisfaction, but significant decreases in Self-Transcendence. Moreover, higher life satisfaction and lower Self-Transcendence at baseline predicted higher adherence to the activity. However, neither character traits nor life satisfaction predicted changes in physiological health. We argue that low frequency physical activity initiatives may improve this population’s physical health because participants probably have a sedentary life and low levels of physical health due to their asylum conditions (e.g., unemployment, low income, poor housing and social network). Furthermore, physical activity per se may not improve the well-being of asylum seekers. Hence, promoting well-being and character development might require person-centered initiatives focusing on the whole individual in order to fit programmes to the needs and life situation of this population.

Effect of Behavior-change Interventions on Daily Physical Activity in Patients with Intermittent Claudication: The OPTIMA Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

The study aimed to synthesize evidence of daily physical activity (PA) following Behavior-change technique (BCT)-based interventions compared to any control in individuals with peripheral arterial disease/intermittent claudication (PAD/IC); and examine the relationship between BCTs and daily PA. Systematic search of 11 databases from inception to 30/11/2022 was conducted, plus weekly email alerts of new literature until 31/8/2023. Studies comparing BCT-based interventions with any control were included. Primary analysis involved a pairwise random-effects meta-analysis. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane-RoB-2 and ROBINS-I tools. Certainty of evidence was evaluated with the GRADE system. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guideline was followed. Outcome measures were short-term (<6 months) change in daily PA, and maintenance of the daily PA (6 months or longer) reported as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs). Forty-one studies (4,339 patients; 26 RCTs/3,357 patients; 15 non-RCTs/982 patients; study mean age 60.3 to 73.8, 29.5% female) were included. Eleven RCTs (15 comparisons, 952 participants) suggested that BCT-based interventions increased daily PA in the short term compared to non-SET [increase of 0.20 SMD (95%CI: 0.07 to 0.33), ∼473 steps/day] with high certainty. Evidence of maintenance of daily PA (≥6 months) is unclear [increase of 0.12 SMD (95%CI: -0.04 to 0.29); ∼288 steps/day; 6RCTs, 8 comparisons, 899 participants], with moderate certainty. For daily PA, compared to SET it was inconclusive both for < 6months change [-0.13 SMD, 95%CI: -0.43 to 0.16); 3RCTs, 269 participants; low certainty] and ≥6months [-0.04 SMD, 95%CI: -0.55 to 0.47); 1 RCT, 89 participants; very low certainty]. It was unclear whether the number of BCTs or any BCT domain were independently related to an increase in PA. BCT-based interventions improve short-term daily PA in people with PAD/IC compared to non-SET controls. Evidence for maintenance of the improved PA at 6 months or longer and comparison with SET is uncertain. BCT-based interventions are effective choices for enhancing daily PA in PAD/IC.

The impact of changes in physical activity on functional recovery for older inpatients in post-acute rehabilitation units.

The effect of increased physical activity duration on functional recovery in older inpatients in subacute settings is not well established. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity and functional recovery in older patients receiving post-acute and subacute care. We analyzed cohort data of hospitalized older patients (age ≥ 65years) in the post-acute rehabilitation units. The main outcome was functional independence measure (FIM) gain. Physical activity was measured using a triaxial accelerometer. Changes in sedentary behavior and total physical activity time from admission to discharge were measured as changes in each physical activity time. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the relationship between changes in physical activity and FIM gain. A total of 210 patients were eligible for analysis. The mean age of the study patients was 83.6 ± 7.2years, and 63.8% (n = 134) were female. According to the multivariate regression analysis, changes in sedentary behavior time were significantly associated with high recovery of FIM gain (odds ratio [OR] 0.996, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.993-1.000; p = 0.026), and changes in total physical activity time also showed a similar association (OR 1.006, 95% CI 1.000-1.011; p = 0.041). Decreased sedentary behavior time and increased total physical activity time were significantly associated with high functional recovery in post-acute rehabilitation units. These results suggest that interventions for physical activity duration may be effective in improving activities of daily living in older post-acute and subacute patients.

Weight Status Determines the Impact of a School-Based Nutrition Education Intervention on Lifestyle Behaviors in Children.

This study investigated the impact of the FLUYE school-based intervention on children's lifestyle behaviors, Mediterranean diet adherence, and emotional well-being in Spain. The objective was to promote healthy habits through nutrition education, physical activity, and emotional support within the school environment, with a focus on addressing the needs of both normal-weight and overweight/obese children. A total of 552 children aged 3 to 12 years participated in the study, with data collected at baseline (T0) and follow-up (T1). The intervention was designed to integrate health education into the school curriculum, emphasizing the development of personal competencies in diet, physical activity, and emotional well-being. The analysis included changes in dietary habits, screen time, physical activity, and psychosocial outcomes, with comparisons made between the normal-weight and overweight/obese groups. Significant improvements were observed in water consumption and reductions in sugar-sweetened beverage intake across both weight groups. However, an increase in screen time, particularly among normal-weight children, highlighted ongoing challenges in reducing sedentary behavior. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet improved more significantly in the overweight/obese group, suggesting the program's effectiveness in promoting healthier eating patterns among at-risk children. Emotional well-being and self-esteem also saw significant enhancements, with children reporting increased feelings of pride and positivity post-intervention. The FLUYE program effectively improved various aspects of children's lifestyle behaviors, particularly in dietary habits and emotional well-being. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive, school-based interventions that address both physical and psychosocial aspects of health, especially for children at higher risk for obesity.

Effect of Centrality on Physical Activity in Late Childhood: A 1-Year Prospective Cohort Study.

Engaging in physical activity (PA) is crucial for children's physical and mental health, with PA in childhood influencing lifelong activity levels. However, PA during childhood tends to decrease with age. Childhood friendship networks influence various health behaviors, including physical activity. Centralities are objective measures of an individual's position and role in friendship networks. The relationship between centrality and PA is inconsistent. This study aimed to determine how centrality affects changes in PA in late childhood longitudinally and to investigate the distribution of centrality in the network. This prospective cohort study recruited fourth- and fifth-grade children (9-11 years old). A total of 143 children participated. We calculated three centralities-in-degree, closeness, and betweenness-based on social network analysis (SNA). PA was assessed using the physical activity questionnaire for older children (PAQ-C). To explore the relationship between centralities and the percentage change in PA, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. Children with higher closeness had a significantly higher rate of decrease in PA after adjusting for confounding factors. There was no significant association between betweenness and percentage change in PA (p = 0.66) or in-degree and percentage change in PA (p = 0.21). This study highlights the importance of considering social network dynamics in PA interventions, particularly for children with high social closeness. Future research should incorporate objective PA measures and explore broader social networks to enhance intervention strategies, especially for Generation Z and Alpha, who experience unique opportunities and motivations for PA due to pervasive digital environments.

Physical Activity and Neurocognitive Symptoms in Older Adults During COVID-19 Pandemic.

Objectives: Examine whether physical activity (PA) changes during the COVID-19 pandemic were related to subjective cognitive decline (SCD), depression, and anxiety in older adults and whether these varied by sociodemographic variables. Methods: 301 older adults completed an online survey between May and October 2020 and 3 months later, including self-report questionnaires of SCD, depression, and anxiety. PA changes were determined with a question. Results: 60% of participants reported decreased PA. Those who reduced their PA were more likely to be from low to middle income and younger. PA increase was related to less SCD and depressive symptoms compared to those who decreased it. Participants who maintained their PA had fewer SCD concerns, depressive, and anxiety symptoms than those who decreased it. Discussion: Reducing PA was associated with worse neuropsychiatric and cognitive symptoms. Encouraging older adults to increase PA may help mitigate some of the pandemic's adverse effects on psychological well-being.

Lifestyle Interventions for Managing Diabetes and Hypertension: A Holistic Approach

Diabetes and hypertension were two of the most prevalent chronic conditions globally, often occurring together and significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. While traditional management strategies have focused on pharmacological treatments, there was a growing recognition of the need for lifestyle interventions to address the underlying risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. This review explored the scientific basis for lifestyle interventions including dietary modifications, physical activity, stress management, and behavioral changes in managing diabetes and hypertension. Evidence from landmark clinical studies demonstrated the effectiveness of these interventions in improving blood glucose control and reducing blood pressure, often rivaling or complementing medication. The integration of lifestyle interventions into clinical practice, however, presented challenges such as time constraints, patient adherence, and healthcare system limitations. Despite these challenges, opportunities existed to enhance patient outcomes through personalized care, technological advancements, and public health initiatives. The methodology utilized in this review involved a comprehensive analysis of current literature, synthesizing evidence from clinical studies and expert guidelines to provide a holistic approach to managing these chronic conditions. By embedding lifestyle interventions into standard care, healthcare providers can offer a more effective, sustainable, and patient-centered path to better health. Keywords: Diabetes Management, Hypertension, Lifestyle Interventions, Cardiovascular Health, Patient-Centered Care.

Effectiveness of NSW health get healthy telephone coaching in adults screened from general practices

BackgroundThe effectiveness of the NSW Health “Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service®”(Get Healthy) to facilitate weight loss on a population scale has been documented, but this was based on self-reported measures. Our study aims to test the effectiveness of the Get Healthy Service on objectively measured weight, BMI, waist circumference, and changes in other health behaviours, including nutrition, physical activity and alcohol intake.MethodsMen and women aged 40–70 years (n = 154) with pre-diabetes (5.7% < HbA1c < 6.5%) were referred from GP Practices to the Get Healthy Service, NSW Health. A subset (n = 98) participated in the “Zinc In Preventing the Progression of pre-Diabetes” (ZIPPeD) trial (ACTRN12618001120268).ResultsThe self-reported outcomes showed a statistically significant improvement from baseline to 12 months in weight (mean 2.7 kg loss, p < 0.001), BMI (mean 1 unit reduction, p < 0.001), and waist circumference (mean 4.3 cm reduction, p < 0.001). However, in the objectively measured outcomes from ZIPPeD, the differences were more modest, with point estimates of 0.8 kg mean weight loss (p = 0.1), 0.4 unit reduction in BMI (p = 0.03), and 1.8 cm reduction in waist circumference (p = 0.04). Bland-Altman plots indicated that discrepancies were due to a small number of participants who dramatically underestimated their weight or BMI. There were minimal changes in nutrition, physical activity, and alcohol.ConclusionsThe potential benefits of Get Healthy should be interpreted with caution as we have shown significant differences between self-reported and objectively measured values. More valid and objective evidence is needed to determine the program’s effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

Prevalence, incidence and associated factors of musculoskeletal disorders before and during the Covid-19 pandemic in faculty members: a comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has led to the broad acceptance of distance education (DE), with university professors and students conducting the teaching–learning process remotely from their homes. The propose of this study to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify risk factors associated with DE that may contribute to an increased incidence of these disorders among university professors.MethodsThis cross-sectional analytical study took a comparative approach and involved 310 university professors in Iran. Data were gathered using an online questionnaire. Initially, demographic and occupational information of the professors, hours of physical activity, and hours spent using electronic devices were recorded. Participants were then asked to report MSDs in various body areas throughout the previous year and the previous seven days. Finally, MSDs risk factors such as workstation ergonomics during computer, laptop, smartphone, and tablet use, as well as working postures during online teaching or offline content development during the COVID-19 pandemic, were examined.ResultsThe majority of the participants were male (66.13%), with a PhD (46.77%) and a faculty member position (74.2%). On average, the use of computers and laptops increased by 2.67 h and 2.72 h, respectively, during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic. This increase was statistically significant (P < 0.001). MSDs incidence increased significantly before and during the COVID pandemic was observed in the areas of the neck, shoulders, lower and upper back, arms, forearms, wrists and fingers (P < 0.05). The highest cumulative incidence (Cin) of MSDs was related to the neck (Cin = 24.20%), upper back (Cin = 21.29%), low back (Cin = 18.06%) and fingers (Cin = 16.13%). The prevalence of MSDs during the COVID pandemic was significantly associated with employment status (P = 0.042), work experience (P = 0.016), age (P = 0.027), increase in the use of computers/ laptops (P < 0.001), decrease of the smartphone/tablet distance from the body (P = 0.047), workstation (smartphone-tablet, computer, laptop) (P < 0.05), head position (smartphone-tablet) (P = 0.029), display height (computer/laptop) (P = 0.045) and physical activity (P = 0.006).ConclusionsIt appears that the increased duration of smartphone, computer, and laptop use, combined with decreased physical activity and detrimental changes in ergonomic conditions of workstations during the quarantine period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in a shift from dynamic to static tasks and an increase in the prevalence and incidence of MSDs among university professors.

212 Multi-trajectory analysis of changes in physical activity, BMI and cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescence

Abstract Purpose Over the past four decades, the worldwide prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled, with childhood obesity being now more common than ever. Furthermore, children and adolescents with overweight or obesity are at a higher risk of retaining this condition into adulthood (Lobstein et al., 2015). Previous studies have shown that larger increase in body mass index (BMI) during adolescence is associated with less improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and steeper decline in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (Kolunsarka et al., 2021). However, the trajectories of these three variables during adolescence are diverse. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and investigate adolescents with similar concurrent changes in MVPA, CRF and BMI throughout adolescence. Methods In this four-year longitudinal study (2017-2021), device-measured MVPA, BMI and CRF data were collected annually from 1157 participants (Mage = 11.37 ± 0.37). A multivariate trajectory analysis was used to identify adolescents who share similar BMI, MVPA and CRF trajectories over four years. Results Three distinct groups were identified and labelled according to BMI trajectories. The ‘persistently normal’ group (86%) exhibited the highest baseline levels of CRF and MVPA, with significant increases in CRF and a concurrent decrease in MVPA. Conversely, the ‘improving from high’ group (5%) demonstrated a significant increase in CRF and a non-significant (p = 0.07) increase in MVPA. In contrast, the ‘progressing to very high’ group (9%) showed no significant changes in either MVPA or CRF. Conclusion These findings underscore the critical importance of early identification and targeted interventions to mitigate the risk of accelerated weight gain, insufficient physical activity and declining fitness during adolescence. Funding Source This study was funded by the Strategic Research Council within the Academy of Finland within the project SchoolWell, and the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture.

123 Green/grey spaces - What is the best urban setting to enhance physical activity? Preliminary findings of the Health Benefits of Outdoor Physical Activity (HOPA) study

Abstract Purpose Strategies aimed at increasing physical activity (PA) must be feasible and easy for participants to adhere to. Outdoor public spaces emerge as relevant venues due to their easy accessibility and lack of cost. However, it is not clear what kind of urban spaces (“nature-based” or “road/sidewalk-based”) contribute the most to increasing PA. This study seeks to investigate the effect of an outdoor intervention on enhancing PA levels and reducing sedentary time (SED) among inactive adults. Methods HOPA was a multi-centre parallel-group randomised control trial (ISRCTN64480977), carried out in three European cities (Lahti, Limerick, Tallinn). The sample comprised 101 adults, self-reported as inactive at baseline (IPAQ), aged between 25-65 years. Participants were instructed to engage in outdoor PA (walking/running) at least three times/week, at least 30 minutes/session, over eight weeks. They were randomly allocated into two groups, based on the type of outdoor spaces where they would perform their activities: “nature-based” and “road/sidewalk-based” spaces. PA (light PA, LPA; moderate-to-vigorous PA, MVPA) and SED were measured at baseline and during week-8 of the intervention, over 9-consecutive days, using activPAL accelerometers. Between- and within-group differences were analysed using General Linear Model, adopting a significance level of 95%. Results There were no significant between-groups differences. A significant time-effect was observed for total weekly LPA (ρ = 0.014;η2=0.06) and MVPA (ρ &amp;lt; 0.001;η2=0.126), but not for weekly average SED (ρ = 0.117). Specifically, LPA decreased from 511.1min/week to 489.1min/week in “nature-based” group, and from 539.3min/week to 498.2min/week in “road/sidewalk-based” group. Conversely, MVPA increased from 219.5min/week to 262min/week in “nature-based” group, and from 227.6min/week to 269.6min/week in “road/sidewalk-based” group. No significant group-time effect was observed, indicating that both “nature-based” and “road/sidewalk-based” groups provide changes in PA. Conclusions Outdoor spaces can be relevant venues for promoting PA engagement and increasing MVPA. Further analysis can provide insights into the relationship between environmental quality and PA, but these preliminary findings suggest that both “nature-based” and road/sidewalk-based” spaces have shown to be relevant to getting people active. Urban cities must develop strategic plans aimed at designing urban spaces that are conducive to PA, promoting its practice, that would positively impact population health. Funding EU-2020 (DOI:10.3030/869764).

O86 EFFECTIVENESS OF A MHEALTH (MOBILE-BASED) INTERVENTION FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES IN SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is the leading cause of preventable death and disability, accounting for 18.6 million deaths and 393 million DALYs in 2019. The effectiveness of mobile health (mHealth) interventions for managing CVD in South Asia is poorly documented. This systematic review evaluates the impact of mHealth on cardiovascular health outcomes in this region. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus, covering the period from January 2000 to December 2023. Our search focused on studies employing mobile-based interventions, such as apps, SMS, video conferencing, or phone calls, to improve cardiovascular outcomes, including blood pressure, medication adherence, and physical activity. Data were synthesised using a random-effects meta-analysis, estimating summary hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022340907). Results: We identified 1483 studies, of which 14 met our inclusion criteria, encompassing 30,939 participants (17,240 intervention; 14,984 control). Participants ages ranged from 46.4 to 60.6 years. Six studies reported improvement in systolic blood pressure (SBP), one reported improvement in cholesterol, two reported change in self-reported physical activity, and three reported improvement in medical adherence. Meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) by -2.32 (95% CI: -4.25 to -0.40; P=0.02) in the intervention arm. No significant changes were observed in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) or medication adherence, with DBP showing a reduction of -1.13 (95% CI: -1.69 to 1.42; P=0.87) and medication adherence an effect size of 0.44 (95% CI: -0.06 to 0.94; P=0.08). Conclusions: mHealth interventions in South Asia show promise in reducing SBP among individuals with CVD, though effects on DBP and medication adherence are less pronounced. The observed benefits are constrained by high heterogeneity and a limited number of studies, indicating the need for further research to consolidate these findings and explore additional CVD outcomes.

Sleep and health improvement programme (SHIP) for patients with prostate cancer and caregivers

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study is to determine whether a sleep and health improvement programme (SHIP) to promote healthy sleep, eating and physical activity would be feasible, acceptable and have a positive impact on lifestyle behaviours for prostate cancer survivors and caregivers.MethodsWe recruited 50 participants for a single group 3‐month pre‐post pilot study. The SHIP intervention included (1) website about sleep, nutrition and physical activity (≥1 view/week), (2) two email newsletters with goal‐setting exercises and resources and (3) midpoint health coach call. The primary outcome was changes in validated sleep scales; secondary outcomes included changes in diet, physical activity and concentration from baseline to 3 months.ResultsOf 50 participants enrolled, median age was 65, 30% were Black and 8% were Hispanic. Thirty‐four patients and 7 family caregivers completed the pilot study (82%). Following the intervention, we observed a statistically significant improvement in the Sleep Hygiene Index (pre: 15, post: 13, p &lt; 0.01), and a trend toward lower Insomnia Severity Index (pre: 12, post: 9, p = 0.07). There were no statistically significant improvements in sleep quality or physical activity, but there were improvements in healthy eating (e.g., increase in cruciferous vegetables and reduction in dairy) and in fatigue‐related problems and concentration. Exit interview feedback was positive.ConclusionsA web‐based sleep and healthy lifestyle programme for patients with prostate cancer and their caregivers is feasible and acceptable. A randomized controlled trial is planned to test whether a refined SHIP improves sleep and lifestyle in patients with prostate cancer and caregivers.

Accelerometer-measured physical activity in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: Determinants and relationship with patient-reported health status

Background: Accelerometer-measured physical activity is an increasingly used endpoint in heart failure (HF) trials. We investigated the determinants of accelerometer-measured physical activity and the relationship with patient-reported health status. Methods: Post-hoc analysis of the Empire HF trial, including outpatients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Physical activity was quantified as average accelerometer counts per minute (CPM) with higher values representing higher activity. We investigated associations between activity level and clinical variables, including age, sex, and body mass index, as well as patient-reported health status assessed by Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). Results: Complete data were available in 180 (95%) patients (86% male, mean age 65 year). Baseline median physical activity level was 1318 CPM (Q1-Q3 1111–1585). Age and anemia were independently associated with activity level (β-coefficients: -10 CPM per year age increase [95% CI -16 to -5.1], p=0.00015, and -126 CPM for anemia [95% CI -9.1 to -244], p=0.035). Significant independent associations were observed between activity level and all KCCQ summary scores (β-coefficient point estimates of 3.7, 4.6, and 4.9 CPM, all p<0.02). For 12-week changes in KCCQ-summary scores, only the KCCQ-CSS was associated with activity level; mean increase of 17.5 CPM [95% CI 1.5 to 34.0], p=0.032, per 5-point increase in KCCQ-CSS. Associations were not modified by treatment allocation (interaction p-values>0.05). Conclusions: In patients with HFrEF, older age and anemia were independently associated with lower activity. Moreover, physical activity only weakly increased with better health status, suggesting that changes in physical activity reflect improvements in patients’ health status to a limited degree. This highlights the need to better understand the endpoint with regards to all other health parameters to ease interpretation in future HF trials.