Current Physical Activity Levels Research Articles

IDENTIFYING THE CURRENT PRACTISE IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ADVICE GIVEN TO WOMEN FOLLOWING A MISCARRIAGE AND THEIR ATTITUDES TOWARDS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

INTRODUCTION & AIMS Miscarriage is the most common adverse pregnancy outcome, with up to 36% of women reporting a miscarriage by 40-45 years old. While physical activity is known for its benefits on physical and mental health in various population, the evidence in women following a miscarriage is lacking. Therefore, the aim of the study is to identify current practice and advice on physical activity following a miscarriage, assess current physical activity levels and to identify women’s attitudes to physical activity following a miscarriage. Women’s willingness to participate in future studies on the benefits of physical activity following miscarriage was also examined. METHODS A cross-sectional survey consisting of 21 questions across 5 subsections including demographics, pregnancy loss experience, physical activity advice, physical activity participation and research participation was used. Participation was opened to all Australian women who had ever experienced a miscarriage. RESULTS A total of 77 surveys were complete and suitable for analysis. Most participants (82%, n=63) reported receiving no physical activity guidance following their miscarriages and said they would like physical activity advice specific to their experiences (84%, n=65). The proportion of women who do not meet the recommended physical activity guideline increase from pre-pregnancy (32%) to following a miscarriage (83%) and continues to be higher (58%) than it was pre-pregnancy. The most frequently identified barriers to physical activity was feeling mentally/emotionally unprepared (34%, n=51). Majority of participants (68%, n=52) were willing to participate in future studies on the benefits of physical activity for women post-miscarriage. CONCLUSION This study strongly supports the need for further research into appropriate physical activity guidelines for women following a miscarriage. There is a clear unmet need in this population who are being disadvantaged by the current lack of support and guidance.

Association of Sports Practice in Childhood and Adolescence with Cardiac Autonomic Modulation in Adulthood: A Retrospective Epidemiological Study

BackgroundPracticing sports during childhood and adolescence provides benefits to cardiac autonomic modulation (CAM) at these stages of life. However, it is not known whether these benefits to CAM persist into adulthood. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze the association of early sports practice (sports practice in childhood and/or adolescence) with CAM in adult life, regardless of habitual moderate-to-vigorous PA.MethodsThe sample of the present study consisted of 242 adults (141 women and 101 men; age: 41.99 ± 16.24). The assessment of CAM was performed using heart rate variability indices. Sports practice in childhood and adolescence was assessed using a questionnaire. The intensity of physical activity was assessed using accelerometry. To analyze the association between previous sports practice (childhood and/or adolescence) and CAM, the Generalized Linear Model was adopted, considering CAM indices as continuous variables and early sports practice as a 3-fold factor (no sports practice; sports practice in childhood or adolescence; and sports practice in both childhood and adolescence) adjusted by sex, age, socioeconomic condition, and moderate to vigorous PA.ResultsSports practice in childhood was associated with the average standard deviation of all normal RR intervals expressed in milliseconds (SDNN): β = 5.89; 95%CI: 0.25;11.52, and the standard deviation of the long-term intervals between consecutive heartbeats (SD2): β = 7.63; 95%CI:1.04; 14.23 indices. Sports practice in adolescence was associated in adulthood with the SD2 index: β = 7.37; 95%CI: 0.71;14.04. Sports practice in at least one of the periods (childhood or adolescence) was significantly associated with the square root of the mean square of the differences between adjacent normal RR intervals for a period of time expressed in milliseconds (RMSSD) (β = 8.86; 95%CI = 0.71;17.01), and the standard deviation of the instantaneous beat to beat variability (SD1) (β = 6.21; 95%CI = 0.45;11.97). Sports practice at both stages of life was significantly associated with better SDNN (β = 7.70; 95%CI = 1.16;14.23) and SD2 (β = 10.18; 95%CI = 2.51;17.85).ConclusionEarly sports practice was associated with better CAM in adulthood, independently of the current physical activity level. Based on these findings, sports practice is encouraged from childhood and adolescence, for benefits to CAM in adult life.

Blood Biomarker and Physical Activity Correlations in Persons with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a debilitating disease that reduces an individual’s quality of life (QOL). PD has a complex pathophysiology, but inflammation is a major contributor. Inflammation is a biological process that removes harmful stimuli and initiates the healing cascade. Researchers commonly use inflammatory markers, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα),interferon-gamma (IFNγ), and interleukin 1-beta (IL1β), to study PD pathologies. While PD is irreversible, physical activity is a non-pharmacological treatment exhibiting beneficial outcomes related to PD and inflammation. To determine if exercise frequency affects the quality of life (QOL) and the magnitude of change in inflammatorybiomarkers associated with PD. Researchers recruited 10 individuals diagnosed with PD to participate in a cross-sectional study. Participants completed four questionnaires to determine their current physical activity (PA) level and QOL. Blood samples were analyzed to determine differences in serum TNFα, IFNγ, and IL1β concentrations between different PA levels of persons with PD. With an alpha level of 0.05, this project only yielded two significant results: an unexpected positive relationship between IL1β and PA level and an expected negative relationship between IL1β and QOL. Although they were not significant, several results trended in the expected directions. Discussion: Observed trends indicated that increasing physical activity decreases inflammatory blood biomarker levels and increases QOL while increasing sedentary behavior increases inflammatory blood biomarker levels and decreases QOL.

Evaluating Wall-Mounted Prompts to Facilitate Physical Activity-Related Discussion between Individuals with Cancer and Oncology Health Care Providers: A Pre-post Survey Study.

To evaluate the use of wall-mounted prompts in facilitating physical activity (PA)-related discussions between individuals with cancer and oncology care providers. Individuals with cancer were approached to participate in a survey-based pre-post study. Half of participants (n = 100) completed a survey prior to installation of wall-mounted prompts in clinic while the other half (n = 100) completed a survey following installation of the prompts. Survey questions included content of PA-related discussion, satisfaction with PA education across treatment, and current PA level. The post-prompt survey also asked questions related to the prompt. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Chi-squared tests were performed to determine significance between timepoints. One hundred participants completed the survey at each timepoint. A significant difference was found pre and post-prompt in the number of PA discussions occurring overall during care (p = 0.03). Some participants (53%) were satisfied with the PA education received during treatment. There was no significant difference in occurrence of PA discussion (p = 0.36) pre and post-prompt and no difference in PA behaviour was observed (p = 0.130). Wall-mounted prompts may be effective in increasing the frequency of PA-related discussions between individuals with cancer and their oncology team across treatment. Additional strategies, such as easy referral to rehabilitation professionals, are also needed to facilitate safe and effective PA behaviour during and after cancer treatments.

Low physical activity is a risk factor for sarcopenia: a cross-sectional analysis of two exercise trials on community-dwelling older adults

BackgroundPhysical inactivity is an important factor in the development of sarcopenia. This cross-sectional study explores the prevalence of sarcopenia and associations of physical activity (PA) with sarcopenia in two exercise trial populations. These study groups are clinically meaningful community-dwelling populations at increased risk for sarcopenia: older adults not meeting the PA guidelines and those with a recent hip fracture (HF).MethodsData from 313 older adults who did not meet the PA guidelines (60% women; age 74.5 ± 3.8, body mass index 27.9 ± 4.7) and 77 individuals with HF diagnosed on average 70 ± 28 days earlier (75% women; age 79.3 ± 7.1, body mass index 25.3 ± 3.6) were included in this study. Grip strength and muscle mass (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry [DXA] in older adults not meeting the PA guidelines and bioimpedance analysis in participants with HF) were used to assess sarcopenia according to the European Working Group in Older People 2019 (EWGSOP2) criteria. The current level of PA was self-reported using a question with seven response options in both study groups and was measured with a hip-worn accelerometer for seven consecutive days in older adults not meeting the PA guidelines.ResultsThe prevalence of sarcopenia and probable sarcopenia was 3% (n = 8) and 13% (n = 41) in the older adults not meeting the PA guidelines and 3% (n = 2) and 40% (n = 31) in the HF group, respectively. In the age- and sex-adjusted logistic regression model, the lowest levels of self-reported PA were associated with increased probable sarcopenia and sarcopenia risk in older adults not meeting the PA guidelines (OR 2.8, 95% CI, 1.3–6.1, p = 0.009) and in the HF group (OR 3.9, 95% CI, 1.4–11.3, p = 0.012). No significant associations between accelerometer-measured PA and probable sarcopenia or sarcopenia were found.ConclusionsProbable sarcopenia is common among community-dwelling older adults not meeting the PA guidelines and very common among individuals recovering from HF who are able to be involved in exercise interventions. In addition, since low PA is associated with higher probable sarcopenia and sarcopenia risk, it is recommended to screen for sarcopenia and promote regular physical activity to prevent sarcopenia in these populations.

Exercise to socialize? Bidirectional relationships between physical activity and loneliness in middle-aged and older American adults.

Physical inactivity and loneliness are both associated with health risks and can affect each other through various social and behavioral mechanisms. However, current evidence on this relationship is equivocal and mostly based on cross-sectional data. This longitudinal study aims to determine whether current levels of physical activity (moderate- and vigorous-intensity) and loneliness are associated with future respective states of themselves and each other. Data from waves 6-14 (2002-2018) of the Health and Retirement Study were used (n=20,134) in a mixed-effects and random intercept cross-lagged panel model. Analysis showed that current loneliness and physical activity were associated with each future respective state. Additionally, weekly participation in moderate-intensity, but not vigorous-intensity, physical activity was associated with a lower likelihood of becoming lonely in the future (RR: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.90-0.99). However, changes in physical activity were not associated with deviation from a person's typical level of loneliness (vigorous-intensity mean deviation (MD): 0.00; 95% CI: -0.04-0.03, moderate-intensity MD: 0.01; 95% CI: -0.03-0.04). Loneliness was not associated with moderate- or vigorous-intensity physical activity in subsequent waves. This suggests that while lower physical activity levels can be associated with future loneliness, changing levels of physical activity has little impact on loneliness at the individual level.

Physical Activity Levels of University of Cyberjaya Students During Pandemic

Introduction: Numerous studies show that physical activity levels were much lower during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hence, it's essential to study the present trend in the amount of physical activity among university students in UOC during the Covid-19 outbreak and to ascertain how sociodemographic characteristics relate to physical activity among UOC students. Objective: The objective was to analyze the current trend of physical activity level and to compare the physical activity level between students of different faculties of university students in UoC with different sociodemographic. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study involving 416 students at University of Cyberjaya, aged between 18 to 30 years. A Google Form questionnaire based on International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF) was distributed via various social media platforms and saved contacts. Results: Most respondents, 51%, are classified as "Moderate" in terms of physical activity level. The "Low" group accounted for 31% of answers, indicating that a significant proportion of students engage in relatively modest levels of physical exercise. In contrast, the "High" group includes 18% of responses, showing that a significant fraction of students is actively participating in greater levels of physical activity. Conclusion: In summary, among students in University of Cyberjaya from different faculties are mostly irregularly active in current physical activity level. Moreover, comparing their physical activity level to pandemic, it has been increased currently due to their daily engagement towards moderate physical activities and always walking for at least 10 minutes at a time.

Isolating unique variance in mental health outcomes attributable to personality variables and childhood emotional abuse.

University students are at high risk for anxiety and depression. Our main objective was to tease apart variance in symptom severity that was uniquely attributable to four associated variables that are frequently confounded: exposure to childhood emotional abuse, alexithymia, sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), and anxiety sensitivity (AS). University students (N = 410) completed an online survey designed to measure our four key study variables along with several other potentially relevant variables including sex, physical activity levels, and perceived COVID-19 impacts. Over half of the participants reported moderate to extremely severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. Females reported stronger signs of SPS and AS and were more likely than males to have increased their moderate/vigorous exercise since the pandemic began. After controlling for the other variables, the best predictors of perceived COVID-19 impacts were SPS, childhood emotional abuse, and current levels of physical activity. Whereas all three personality variables and childhood emotional abuse emerged as significant predictors of both depression and anxiety, neither COVID-19 impacts nor physical activity levels accounted for unique variance in either model. Unexpectedly, male sex emerged as an additional risk factor for depression, raising the possibility that males experience unique stressors and societal pressures that increase their risk of depression. These findings help to clarify the links between childhood emotional abuse, personality traits implicated in emotional awareness and self-regulation, and mental health. They may have important implications for the development and implementation of individualized treatments for common mental disorders.

Assessment of the level of physical activity among children aged 7–15 using the short version of the IPAQ questionnaire. A pilot study

Introduction. In February 2022, remote learning ended in Poland. This was associated with an increase in physical activity for children, including participation in physical education lessons as well as spontaneous games and play during breaks, and also the commute to and from school. The introduction of remote learning significantly limited the opportunity for children to build healthy habits in the form of leading as active a lifestyle as possible. Aim of the study. (1) Assesing of the possibility of using the short version of the IPAQ questionnaire to assess the level of physical activity among children aged 7–15. (2) Assessing the current level of physical activity among children aged 7–15 and the degree of compliance with WHO recommendations. Material and methods. A pilot study was conducted in the form of an anonymous online survey, based on the shortened version of the IPAQ questionnaire, on a group of 30 randomly selected children. Results. (1) The short version of the IPAQ questionnaire allowed for an easy and precise calculation of the level of physical activity in the studied group. (2) The studied group did not achieve the minimum level of physical activity recommended by the WHO. Conclusions. (1) The short version of the IPAQ questionnaire can be used to assess the level of physical activity among children after introducing changes to the qualification criteria with reference to WHO recommendations. (2) There is a need for education promoting health behaviors associated with engaging in physical activity.

Commuting and Acceptance of Worksite Physical Activity Opportunities: Insights From a French University Hospital.

Recent research suggests a need for worksite programs that promote structured physical activity (PA) among hospital staff. The objectives of this study were to assess the hospital employees' acceptance of PA opportunities that could be implemented at the worksite, and the association between worksite PA and commuting and other sociocognitive factors. Acceptance of seven PA opportunities from the WHO guidelines was correlated with commuting and socio-cognitive factors through an online survey conducted among the workforce of the University Hospital of Angers, France (N = 6874) between April 25 and May 22, 2022. Only three PA opportunities in the seven proposed reached high approval rates among at least 50% of the 1,427 participants, namely, provide cycle facilities onsite, create a fitness room onsite, and establish partnerships with private associations or sports clubs, albeit rates decreased significantly with commuting distance for the first and the last proposals. The number of approved PA opportunities was positively related to the perceived negative influence of commuting on well-being and self-rated concerns with current PA level. It was negatively related to older age, long commuting, and flexible rest days. Based on these results, we recommend raising PA awareness and self-efficacy before implementing an easily accessible fitness center for employees. Providing cycle facilities and a more walkable environment in the hospital setting while encouraging active traveling between home and work for short commuters could additionally increase the level of physical activity on an equitable and sustainable basis.

FEASIBILITY OF USING SMARTPHONES AS A TOOL TO PROMOTE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract Smartphones have potential to allow asynchronous education, individualized feedback and coaching around physical activity (PA) though it’s unclear if older adults make use of these capabilities. We conducted anonymous, semi-structured interviews/surveys on current PA levels, and experience with mobile technology and PA programs with a convenience sample of older adults, and family members/caregivers receiving care at a large geriatrics academic practice over a 3-month period. Data included demographics, experience with smartphone and PA applications. Current levels of PA were measured with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Comparisons of PA levels based on mild vs moderate vs vigorous activity. 25 completed surveys, most of whom were female (67%) and identified as non-White (68%), with a mean age of 80.8 years, range 67-96. The majority (84%) reported owning smartphones, 8% reported using PA apps, and 8% used wearable activity trackers (WATs). 44% walked at least 10 minutes per day, but only 32% reported attaining moderate PA, and 12% vigorous PA. Average time/day walking 1.1-hour, average time/day moderate activity 0.74 hours. Both younger (age≤80 years) and older (age>80 years) adults were similar in owning Smartphones (85% vs. 83%) and using WATs (8% vs. 8%). Only the younger group used PA apps (15% vs. 0%). The ubiquity of Smartphones especially among such a demographically heterogeneous group suggests this may be a viable tool for increasing PA among a wide range of older adults. Next steps should address low rates of PA app use, intergenerational differences, and the possibility of incorporating socialization with technology.

Why Do Romantic Relationships Affect Physical Activity? An Analysis of the Time Use of Couples and Singles Over a 3-Day Period.

Several studies have found that individuals with a partner were less physically active than those without. To better understand the reasons for this association, we examine whether the existence of a relationship or the current presence of a partner influences physical activity (PA). We use data from the most recent German Time Use Survey 2012/13 to examine leisure-time PA. All leisure-time activities reported in the time diaries are classified according to their metabolic equivalent of task (MET) to calculate the mean MET scores. First, we use ordinary least square regressions and logistic regressions to examine the effects of living together with a partner or not on mean daily MET scores and on exercise. Second, we apply person-day fixed effects models to estimate the impact of current partner presence on current PA levels. Having a partner is negatively associated with exercising but is not correlated with mean leisure-time MET scores for both women and men. For those with a partner, current MET levels are substantially lower when the partner is present than when the partner is absent. When partners spend leisure-time activities apart, their MET levels are higher than those of individuals without a partner. The results suggest that it is not the mere existence of a romantic relationship but the current copresence with a partner that affects PA behavior. Therefore, interventions to increase PA may be promising if they can encourage couples to be active together.

Abstract 15404: Exercise and Sports Participation is Associated With Improved Quality of Life in Young Patients With Heritable Thoracic Aortic Disease

Introduction: Traditionally, patients with heritable thoracic aortic disease (HTAD) have been restricted from competitive sports due to concerns over acute aortic dissection. Patients with HTAD also exhibit lower quality of life (QOL) and physical fitness than general populations. Murine data suggests exercise improves aortic health and does not contribute to aortic enlargement. Hypothesis: Exercise and competitive sports participation will be associated with improved QOL in HTAD patients. Aims: Investigate the effect of lifetime exercise ‘dose’ and competitive sports participation on QOL in patients aged 15-35 with syndromic HTAD [Marfan syndrome (MS), Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS)] and non-syndromic HTAD. Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a questionnaire to assess lifetime exercise exposure and utilized the PedsQL QOL Inventory. We developed an Exercise Score (ES) to quantify lifetime exercise exposure based on questionnaire results (3 points for competitive sports season, 1 point for recreational sport season. Questionnaires were completed via telephone interview with complimentary medical chart review. Results: Of the forty patients enrolled, the mean age was 26 years. The diagnosis was MS in 82.5%. Despite 87.5% of patients being restricted by their cardiologist, 65% reported competitive sports participation and 92.5% reported some lifetime recreational exercise. The median ES for our population was 19. Participants with an ES greater than the median had a significantly better total QOL score compared to participants with an ES below the median (78 vs 65, p=0.03). There was no difference in aortic size or need for surgical intervention between those above and below the median ES. This also held true for those who did and did not participate in competitive sports. There was a strong positive correlation between the amount of current exercise (days-per-week) and total QOL score (corr=0.55, p<0.001). Conclusions: Increased lifetime exercise exposure and current physical activity levels were associated with improved QOL in young adults with HTAD. There did not appear to be a detrimental effect of exercise on aortic size or need for surgical intervention.

Patient perspectives on digital health and physical activity in Parkinson’ disease: a brief research report

Background People living with Parkinson’s disease (PwP) typically have lower levels of physical activity (PA) which predisposes them to heart disease, reduced bone density and low exercise tolerance. Digital health has been shown to be effective at promoting PA in several clinical cohorts and monitoring PA in PwP. In addition, PwP have reported positive experiences with using digital health modalities such as smartwatches and telehealth. However, the perspectives of PwP on how best to use digital health to promote PA has yet to be investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate current levels of digital skills in PwP and the perspectives and opinions of PwP on the use of digital health for PA interventions. Methods Eighty-nine PwP living in Ireland completed a cross-sectional questionnaire looking at current levels of PA and self-reported levels of digital skills. Results The majority of participants believed that PA was beneficial for PwP and had a moderate to high level of digital skills. Important factors to consider when constructing a digital health PA intervention included ease of access, low cost, variety of exercises and physical activity options and a feedback function. Conclusion PwP have a moderate to high level of self-reported digital skills. This study provides useful information on factors that should be considered when constructing a digital PA intervention for PwP

The impact of early sports participation on body fatness in adulthood is not mediated by current physical activity.

The aim was to analyze the relationship between early sports participation (ESP) and body fatness (BF) in adults, as well as to identify whether this possible relationship is directly influenced by the current physical activity (PA) level. This cross-sectional study combined baseline data of two cohort. The BF estimated by DXA. The ESP, the subjects reported the engagement in sports during childhood (7-10 years) and adolescence (11-17 years) through two yes/no questions and current PA (described as steps) was device-measured using pedometers. Were identified as potential covariates and therefore adjusted the multivariate models: age, ethnicity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and sleep quality. Statistical analysis consisted of the chi-square test, analysis of variance/covariance, and structural equation modeling (software BioEstat version 5.0; p-value < .05). Adults engaged in ESP had lower BF; among women, the variance in BF explained by ESP was 25.5%; among men, it was 9.2%. Sports participation in early life (r = -.436 [95% CI: -0.527 to -0.346]) and current PA (r = -.431 [95% CI: -0.522 to -0.340]) were inversely related to BF, as well as positively related to each other (r = .328 [95% CI: 0.226 to 0.430]). In the mediation model, current PA partially mediated (18.5%) the impact of ESP on BF, while current PA and ESP remained relevant determinants of BF. Early sports participation and current PA have a significant impact on BF in adulthood, which is of similar magnitude and independent of each other.

Regular Exercise in Youth Anticipates Better Fitness in Older Age

ABSTRACT The increasing lifespan in our society emphasizes the importance of maximizing the well-being for older individuals. The objective of this research was to identify disparities in current physical fitness between older adults who engaged in regular exercise during their youth and those who did not. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the factors contributing to current levels of physical activity. This cross-sectional study involved a retrospective examination of the exercise habits of seniors. A total of 76 participants (35.5% male, aged between 60–80) underwent evaluation using the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. The key findings of the study are as follows: 1. Seniors who consistently exercised during their younger years demonstrated superior physical fitness, including cardiorespiratory fitness. 2. Generally, individuals who engaged in exercise during their youth were more likely to maintain an active lifestyle in later life. 3. Current levels of physical activity were associated with regular exercise during youth and the absence of chronic diseases.

Physical activity and social interaction assessments in schoolyard settings using the System for Observing Outdoor Play Environments in Neighborhood Schools (SOOPEN)

BackgroundThe schoolyard environment provides key opportunities to promote physical activity and socioemotional development for children. Schoolyards can also serve as a community park resource outside of school hours. We aimed to: (i) implement and evaluate reliability of the System for Observing Outdoor Play Environments in Neighborhood Schools (SOOPEN), (ii) assess schoolyard use by children during recess and community members of all ages outside of school hours, and (iii) investigate relationships of schoolyard and children´s group characteristics with physical activity levels and prosocial interactions.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we observed student and community visitor behavior using SOOPEN at three urban elementary schoolyards in Tacoma, Washington, USA, prior to renovations intended to expand each facility’s use as a community park in neighborhoods with poor park access. We assessed interrater reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients and described current levels of schoolyard use (at the group level), physical activity, and prosocial behavior. Physical activity was assessed on a five-point scale and dichotomized to indicate moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Social interactions were coded as prosocial, antisocial, or neutral. We examined associations of selected schoolyard features and group characteristics with group MVPA and prosocial behavior during recess using modified Poisson regression to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsWe observed a total of 981 activity-defined, informal groups in the schoolyards, and achieved good to excellent interrater reliability using SOOPEN. Community use of the schoolyards during evenings and weekends was limited (n = 56 groups). During 26, 25–50 min recess periods (n = 833 groups), 19% of groups were engaged in MVPA. Schoolyard areas with paved surfaces were associated with more MVPA (PR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.23) compared to field/grass areas; supervised groups were associated with less MVPA than groups not directly supervised by an adult (PR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.96). Schoolyard characteristics were not associated with prosocial behavior. Mixed-gender groups were associated with more MVPA and more prosocial behavior.ConclusionsOur study using SOOPEN, a reliable new activity observation tool, highlights the multi-dimensional dynamics of physical activity and social interactions in schoolyards, which could be leveraged to promote healthy behaviors during and outside of school hours.

Differences in physical activity behaviors between university women from metropolitan, micropolitan, and rural areas

Objective: Rural and emerging adult women report low physical activity (PA) levels. This study identified differences in current self-reported PA levels and perceived resources among US university women from metropolitan, micropolitan, and rural areas. Participants: Women were ages 18–24 y, full-time students who attended in-person university classes before COVID-19. Methods: They completed an online cross-sectional survey between July-September 2020 collecting demographic, university PA (via IPAQ), and perceived PA resource data. Results: Most participants reported metropolitan area high school (70.4%) and university (92.3%) attendance. Metropolitan participants did less job-related moderate PA during university (0.0 (0.0–360.0) MET-min) than rural (160.0 (0.0–1320.0) MET-min) participants. Metropolitan and micropolitan participants identified more high school community and natural resources than rural participants. Rural participants identified more university campus and community resources than metropolitan participants. Conclusions: University women reported similar levels of PA regardless of the rurality of their high school community.

Management of modifiable risk factors and comorbidities in atrial fibrillation: suggestions for improvement from a patient perspective

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): SLL Region Stockholm Innovation SLL Region Stockholm Klinisk Forskare. Background In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), improved management of modifiable risk factors, unhealthy lifestyle and concomitant diseases is highly recommended by guidelines, in particular if rhythm control is desired. Yet, many AF patients have suboptimal management of risk factors and comorbidities. There is a lack of understanding how patients can be better aided to achieve these goals in clinical practice. Digital health solutions may offer support in this matter. Purpose To identify what patients with atrial fibrillation would find important in a digital tool aimed at optimization of modifiable risk factors and comorbidities. Methods This is a qualitative, descriptive study based on semi-structured interviews that were analyzed by manifest content analysis. 16 AF patients with recent in- or outpatient encounters were included (age 68 (52-78) years; 43% female; BMI 29.5 (20.4-35.8) kg/m2; paroxysmal/persistent AF (50%/50%); AF duration 7 (0-22) years). Four semi-structured focus-group interviews were conducted. Study results were intended to inform the development of a digital tool aimed to support risk factor and comorbidity optimization in patients scheduled for rhythm control interventions. Results Relevant comorbidities were hypertension (88%), heart failure (25%), diabetes mellitus type 2 (19%) and ischemic heart disease (13%). Only 19% stated that they were satisfied with their current level of physical activity and 19% were satisfied with their current eating habits. The participants’ suggestions were summarized into three main categories. First, person-centered information is essential, meaning that information should be customized, conveyed in an appropriate tone and include practical tips. Second, there is an unmet need for help with managing lifestyle habits in a way that is easily applicable in everyday life, and patients desire help with creating habits. Third, regular communication is necessary including inspirational reminders and motivational feedback. Conclusions From a patient perspective, person-centered information, practical help with managing lifestyle habits, and regular communication are considered essential in helping to optimize treatment of comorbidities and associates risk factors associated to lifestyle. This can, at least in part, be done digitally and should be implemented more in standard care to improve outcomes and reduce cost.

Does participation in therapeutic exercise programs after finishing oncology treatment still ensure an adequate health status for long-term breast cancer survivors? A ≥ 5 years follow-up study.

The aims of this study were to evaluate whether the effects of two therapeutic exercise programs are sustained over time (≥ 5 years) in long-term breast cancer survivors (LTBCS). Second, to determine the influence of the current level of physical activity (PA) performed on cancer-related fatigue (CRF) that these patients may present ≥5 years later. A prospective observational study was conducted with a cohort of 80 LTBCS in Granada during 2018. Firstly, considering their participation in one of the programs, they were allocated into two groups: usual care and therapeutic exercise program, to assess CRF, pain and pressure pain sensitivity, muscle strength, functional capacity, and quality of life. Secondly, they were also classified into 3 groups according to current level of weekly PA performed: ≤ 3, 3.1-7.4, and ≥ 7.5 (MET-hour/week) respectively, to assess its impact over CRF. Although the positive effects of the programs are not sustained over time, a trend toward significance can be observed for a greater reduction in overall CRF levels, lower intensity of pain in the affected arm and cervical region, and greater functional capacity and quality of life in the group that underwent therapeutic exercise. Additionally, 66.25% of LTBCS are inactive ≥ 5 years after completion of the program and furthermore, such inactivity is accompanied by higher CRF levels (P .013 to .046). The positive effects of therapeutic exercise programs are not maintained over time for LTBCS. Additionally, more than half of these women (66.25%) are inactive ≥ 5 years after completion of the program, this inactivity being accompanied by higher levels of CRF.