International Physical Activity Questionnaire Research Articles

Combined associations of obesity and physical activity with pain, fatigue, stiffness and anxiety in adults with spondyloarthropathies: UK Biobank study.

Inflammatory spondyloarthropathies are associated with pain, fatigue, stiffness and anxiety. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the EULAR provide limited lifestyle guidance for managing symptoms with inflammatory spondyloarthropathies. We investigated the combined associations of obesity and physical activity with symptom severity in inflammatory spondyloarthropathies. The relationship between BMI, physical activity and symptom severity (spinal and general pain, fatigue, anxiety, mobility) was examined in people with ISpAs (n = 1577). BMI categories were normal weight (18.5-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25.0-29.9 kg/m2) and obese (≥30 kg/m2). Physical activity was assessed via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (low < 600 metabolic equivalent of task (MET)-min/week, moderate ≥ 600 METs, high ≥ 3000 METs). Statistical models adjusted for confounders, including medication, estimated the likelihood (odds ratios, OR) of higher symptom severity across BMI and physical activity categories. Overweight and obesity, compared with normal weight, were linked to higher severity of all symptoms, with stronger associations for obesity (OR ≥ 2.34, P < 0.001) than overweight (OR ≥ 1.37, P ≤ 0.032). Moderate activity, compared with low, was associated with lower severity of all symptoms (OR ≤ 0.77, P ≤ 0.032). High activity, compared with low, was associated with lower severity of fatigue, anxiety and mobility issues (OR ≤ 0.74, P ≤ 0.029), but associations with spinal and general pain were not significant (OR ≤ 0.80, P ≥ 0.056). No BMI-by-physical activity combinations were detected, indicating physical activity benefits all BMI groups to a similar extent. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and EULAR guidance for inflammatory spondyloarthropathies should emphasize maintaining a normal weight. Moderate physical activity is optimal for reducing symptom severity and should be promoted in lifestyle guidance.

Cholesterol to saturated fat index (CSI), metabolic parameters and inflammatory factors among obese individuals

BackgroundThe role of dietary fat quality in promotion of cardiovascular diseases is studies before. However, the results are inconsistent. Recently, cholesterol to saturated fatty acid index (CSI) is suggested as a novel indicator of the atherogenicity and thrombogenicity potential of a diet. However, due to limited number of studies, in the current cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the role of CSI in metabolic and inflammatory response among obese individuals.MethodsIn the current cross-sectional study 488 obese individuals aged 18–50 years old were involved in volunteer based invitation from outpatient obesity clinics. Subjects underwent anthropometric assays including weight, height, waist circumference (WC) and body composition and their fasting blood sample were obtained for biochemical assessments including blood sugar, serum lipids, hs-CRP and IL-6 concentrations by commercial kits. Physical activity was also assessed by short form of international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ).ResultsAccording to our results, being at the top tetile of CSI was associated with higher anthropometric indices including weight, height, WC, FFM, and basal metabolic rate (BMR) compared with those at the lowest tertile (P < 0.05). Similarly, those at the highest category of CSI had significantly higher levels of serum glucose and hs-CRP both in crude and adjusted models in ANCOVA and in multinomial logistic regression models (P < 0.05).ConclusionIn the current study, for the first time, we identified the possible triggering role of dietary cholesterol to saturated fat index in increasing serum glucose and hs-CRP levels. due to cross-sectional design of the current study, causal inference is impossible. Further studies will help for better scientific justification.

Comparison of functionality, physical activity, cardiac and respiratory parameters between patients with mood disorders and healthy controls

Background The cardiorespiratory effect in mental illnesses has recently received much attention. However, the cardiovascular and pulmonary effects of mood disorders have not been clearly demonstrated. Aims This study aims to compare individuals with mood disorders and healthy people in terms of exercise capacity, functionality, respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, dyspnoea and physical activity level. Method This cross-sectional study involved 30 patients with mood disorders and 35 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. Exercise capacity (6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), 3-Minute Step Test (3MST)), functionality (vertical jump test, functional reach test), respiratory parameters (respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function test), dyspnoea (Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale) and physical activity level (Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)) were evaluated. Results 6MWT results (P &lt; 0.001) and functional test scores (vertical jump test, P = 0.006; functional reach test, P &lt; 0.001) were significantly lower, and heart rate recovery after 3MST (P &lt; 0.001) was higher in mood disorder patients. Although patients' respiratory parameters were lower than healthy individuals, only measured and predicted respiratory muscle strength (P &lt; 0.001), peak expiratory flow rate litres (P &lt; 0.001), forced vital capacity predicted (P = 0.010) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s predicted (P = 0.002) values were statistically significantly different. Dyspnoea with activities was higher in patients (P &lt; 0.001). Patients spent more time sitting (IPAQ, P &lt; 0.001), but overall physical activity levels were similar between the two groups (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions Patients with mood disorders had decreased exercise capacity and pulmonary function, lower functionality scores and respiratory muscle strength, and increased dyspnoea. Exercise-based rehabilitation protocols are recommended for the management of risk factors affecting the mood disorder patients' cardiorespiratory status.

The Impact of Depression on Adherence to Diabetes Self-Management Behaviors in Breast Cancer Survivors.

Breast cancer survivors (BCS) have higher rates of depression which is associated with lower adherence to medications, diet, and physical activity. Managing diabetes (DM) requires adherence to several of these self-management behaviors (SMB), and BCS have an increased risk of DM. We investigated whether depressive symptoms were associated with adherence to DM SMB in a cohort of BCS. BCS with DM were surveyed semiannually for 2years. Depression was assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Adherence to DM medication, diet, and physical activity was self-reported using the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS), Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Assessment (SDSCA), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), respectively. Using generalized linear equation modeling, the association of depressive symptoms with nonadherence to SMB was assessed, adjusting for age, race, marital status, education level, and beliefs about cancer and DM risk. Among 244 BCS with DM, those who were nonadherent to medication, diet, and/or physical activity had higher depression scores (p<0.01). In adjusted analyses, higher depression scores were independently associated with dietary (OR=1.16, p<0.001) and physical activity nonadherence (OR=1.18, p<0.001) but not with medication nonadherence. Concerns about medications was independently associated with medication nonadherence (OR=1.17, p=0.024). Higher depression scores are associated with nonadherence to DM SMB in this cohort of BCS. These findings highlight the importance of addressing depressive symptoms in BCS to help improve adherence to DM medications, diet, and physical activity.

Feeling good means doing good: body appreciation as a predictor of physical activity, fitness, and motivation

The study aimed to investigate the influence of body appreciation on physical activity motivation, physical activity level, and physical fitness among 423 randomly selected state university students. The Body Appreciation Scale-2 was used to quantify body appreciation. For measuring physical activity level, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized. The Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation was also used to quantify physical activity motivation. Various field tests, such as a 3-minute Step test, a 1-minute Push-up test, a Plank test, a Wall sit test, and a Sit and Reach test, were used to assess physical fitness. The questionnaire, scale, and field tests were completed and performed by the participants. The data gathered were analyzed using multiple linear regression with SPSS Version 29. Body appreciation was found to be a predictor of physical activity and leisure motivation for males, females, and all participants. It also predicted the physical activity levels of males, females, and all participants. However, its influence on physical fitness was only found in male participants. Future studies should measure variables using alternative instruments, such as a varied scale for body appreciation, real-time physical activity tracking through wearables and fitness apps, and additional physical fitness components to better assess the influence of body appreciation on physical fitness.

Ramadan-Induced Lifestyle Changes: Effects on Sleep and Physical Activity in Non-Fasting Type 1 Diabetes Patients

ObjectivesIn this study we aimed to identify sleep patterns, physical fitness, and barriers to physical activity (PA) during Ramadan observance in a cohort of nonfasting individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). MethodsSixty-one nonfasting patients with T1D, age 28.34±9.43 years, ranging from 15 to 54 years, completed questionnaires before and during Ramadan. The questionnaires included 3 assessment instruments: the Barriers to Physical Activity in Type 1 Diabetes (BAPAD1), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. ResultsDuring Ramadan, there was no significant change in BAPAD1 scores compared to before Ramadan (p=0.378). The primary barriers encompassed hypoglycemia risk, work schedules, diabetes control, and fatigue. Moreover, subjective sleep quality deteriorated during Ramadan compared to the pre-Ramadan period (p<0.001). Sleep duration decreased by 58 minutes (p<0.01) and was associated with later bedtimes and more awakenings. There was a notably decrease in PA levels (p=0.042), particularly for vigorous activities (p=0.017), whereas sedentary time showed a significant increase (p=0.008). ConclusionsRamadan observance did not affect barriers to PA in individuals with T1D despite alteration of sleep patterns and PA levels. Lifestyle alterations associated with Ramadan observance significantly impact individuals with T1D who are not fasting, resulting in reduced PA, shortened sleep duration, and increased sedentary time.

Hybrid and on-site working: correlation between working modality and psychophysical health.

This study investigates the psychophysical health implications of hybrid and on-site working modalities among desk workers. It focuses on how hybrid work, integrating remote and on-site elements, influences physical activity, efficiency, and overall health. The research involved 57 desk workers, evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and accelerometers for physical activity, the Cubo Fitness Test for physical efficiency, and blood sample analyses for clinical parameters. Psychosocial traits were assessed through the General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Psychological General Well-being Index, and the Job Content Questionnaire. We analyzed: 1) the correlation between physical activity, physical efficiency, and health parameters in the entire sample of desk workers (composed both by hybrid and on-site workers); 2) differences between hybrid and on-site workers; and 3) correlations between hybrid work composition (the percentage of remote working per week) and health-related parameters. Statistical analysis showed relationships between physical efficiency, amount of physical activity, and clinical health parameters in line with the literature. Moreover, hybrid workers engaged in significantly more intense physical activities outside work hours than on-site workers. In addition, hybrid working showed better results in some components of psychosocial well-being. Despite that, no significant differences were found in clinical health parameters. A correlation analysis between hybrid work composition and all considered health-related parameters highlighted that the higher the remote working, the higher the vigorous physical activity, but the worse the psychosocial status and clinical parameters. The findings suggest that a hybrid working model could effectively support the health of desk workers if adequately balanced.

Physical Activity and Psychosocial Outcomes in Adults with Achondroplasia: An Exploratory Study.

Adults with achondroplasia face physical and psychosocial challenges that may impact their health-related quality of life and mental health. This exploratory cross-sectional study aimed to investigate relationships between health-related quality of life, mental health, and physical activity levels in adults with achondroplasia, focusing on potential gender differences. Sixteen adults with achondroplasia (10 women, 6 men; age 37.2 ± 13.5 years) completed the Short Form Health survey, the Brief Symptom Inventory, and the International Physical Activity questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, non-parametric group comparisons, correlational analyses, and linear regressions were conducted. Moderate physical activity showed strong positive correlations with general health (rs = 0.79, 95% CI [0.50, 0.92]), vitality (rs = 0.60, 95% CI [0.15, 0.85]), and physical functioning (rs = 0.62, 95% CI [0.18, 0.86]), on SF-36. Women reported lower quality of life scores than men across most SF-36 dimensions. Significant gender difference was observed in vitality (r = 0.61) and pain (r = 0.55). Physically active participants presented better outcomes in general health (r = 0.63) and vitality (r = 0.55) compared to inactive participants. This study provides preliminary evidence suggesting potential benefits of moderate-intensity physical activity on health-related quality of life and mental health among adults with achondroplasia, with notable gender differences. While limited by sample size and study design, the findings highlight the need for larger, longitudinal studies to further explore the role of physical activity in enhancing well-being in this population.

Self-efficacy in increasing physical activity of coronary heart disease patients: a cross-sectional study

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the association of physical activity and self-efficacy in patients with coronary heart disease. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among outpatients of coronary heart disease at a cardiovascular center. A total of 238 coronary heart disease patients were included in the study using a purposive sampling technique. The self-efficacy was measured using the cardiac self-efficacy scales (CSE), and the physical activity was measured using the long form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Data analysis used the Chi-square test, Spearman correlation test and multivariate linear regression. Results: Self-efficacy was strongly positively correlated with physical activity in coronary heart disease patients (r = 0.956; p = 0.001). Domain-specific correlations included domestic (r=0.419, p&lt;0.001), work (r=0.383, p&lt;0.001), leisure time (r=0.296, p&lt;0.001), and transport (r=0.247, p&lt;0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that employment status had the most significant negative impact on physical activity (B = -246.477), while age (B = 123. 889) and self-efficacy (B = 93.513) were positively associated with physical activity. These results indicate that higher self-efficacy and older age are linked to increased physical activity, whereas employment status is associated with decreased physical activity. Conclusions: In this population, self-efficacy, remaining working status and age are important factors of physical activity in coronary heart disease patients. Keywords: coronary heart disease, good health and well-being, physical activity, self-efficacy

Evaluation of Work-Related Factors Affecting the Frequency of Overweight and Obesity Among Healthcare Workers in Intensive Care Units in a Training and Research Hospital

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among healthcare workers (HCWs) in intensive care units (ICU) and to evaluate the affecting work-related factors. Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted between 01.09.2022 and 01.11.2022 in HCWs (working in the ICUs) in a training and research hospital. Personal information form, international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ short) were used in the study, and their self-reported height and body weights were recorded. Results: According to the Body Mass Index of the participants, 29.0% (n=60) were overweight and 13.0% (n=27) were obese. There are differences between advanced age, male gender, marital status being married, presence of obesity in family history, smoking, exposure to stress and pressure at work, lack of physical activity, sitting down to work for more than 3.5 hours in a day, shift work duration of more than 9.5 days per month, eating fast food, not being educated about obesity and overweight. Conclusion: Protecting workers against risk factors associated with overweight and obesity will increase the level of workers’ health and the quality of service received from the workers. This situation will have a positive impact on public health, reducing health costs and reducing losses for both the workers and the country's economy.

The influence of breastfeeding factors on the prevalence of back and neck pain: data from an online survey

BackgroundSometimes during breastfeeding women adopt positions that may cause problems with musculoskeletal system, resulting in back pain. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of lower back, upper back and neck pain in breastfeeding women and how this may be related to the act of breastfeeding.MethodsAn online survey within Poland was conducted among 395 breastfeeding women who were 1 to 48 months postpartum and were divided into two groups; “no back pain” and “back pain present”. The measurement tools used included an original questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), a Numerical Pain Rating Scale (0–10), and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. Pearson’s chi-squared tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Student’s t-tests, and Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA tests were used to compare the groups.ResultsIt was found that 84% of breastfeeding mothers suffered from back pain at least once a month. Pain was experienced at least once a week in the cervical, thoracic and lumbosacral regions in 48%, 36%, and 66% of the women, respectively. A dysfunctional state was present in 27.6% of breastfeeding mothers who suffered from back pain. Mothers experiencing back pain spent significantly more time on single breastfeeding episodes (p < 0.05) and had an increased total time breastfeeding per day (p < 0.01) compared to mothers with no back pain. Neck pain was significantly less intense in mothers preferring to breastfeed in a lying position as compared to mothers preferring a sitting position in a chair or an armchair (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis survey of Polish breastfeeding mothers revealed a very high prevalence of lower back, upper back and neck pain. The amount of time spent on breastfeeding and the choice of body position for breastfeeding were important factors differentiating the prevalence and intensity of the pain. It is recommended that breastfeeding mothers do not extend the single-feeding time in the adopted position beyond the required time. It is of utmost importance to choose a breastfeeding position in which all parts of the mother’s body are supported. To prevent neck pain, lying and semi-lying positions with head support are recommended.

The role of physical activity in mitigating stress-induced internet addiction among Chinese college students

BackgroundThis study addresses the nexus of stress, physical exercise, and internet addiction in college students, aiming to unravel their complex interactions. With prior research hinting at correlations, this study seeks deeper insights into the optimal exercise duration and the mediating role of physical activity in the stress-internet addiction relationship. MethodsWe examined 2892 Chinese college students, assessing psychosocial traits via established scales: the Chinese Internet Addiction Scale (CIAS-R), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and DASS-21 for stress. We adopted a questionnaire survey method to collect data, and through convenience sampling, participants were selected. Analysis involved Structural Equation Model (SEM) and restricted cubic splines (RCS). ResultsAmong participants, 22.0 % self-reported internet addiction symptoms. Notably, a non-linear correlation between moderate (MPA) and vigorous physical activity (VPA) and internet addiction was evident (P < 0.001), while light physical activity (LPA) showed no significant association (P = 0.182). MPA initially reduced internet addiction as activity hours increased, but its efficacy lessened after 0.8 h/day. Conversely, VPA's impact fluctuated, declining from 0 to 0.18 h/day, then stabilizing. SEM analysis highlighted VPA and MPA's partial mediation in the stress-internet addiction relationship. Specifically, the path coefficient from stress to MPA was −0.037 (P < 0.05), and the path coefficient from MPA to internet addiction was −0.056 (P < 0.01). Additionally, the path coefficient from stress to VPA was −0.067 (P < 0.001), and the path coefficient from VPA to internet addiction was −0.102 (P < 0.001). ConclusionThis study unveils the intricate interplay between physical activity, stress, and internet addiction among college students. With 22.0 % reporting addiction symptoms, urgent interventions tailored to promoting healthy physical activity levels are imperative to mitigate internet addiction risks. LimitationsThe cross-sectional nature of our design precludes the establishment of causal relationships between psychological stress and internet addiction.

Physical Activity Level, Weight Categories, and Fat Distribution: A Crosssectional Study of College Students

Introduction: Overweight and obesity are growing problems worldwide, along with a decrease in physical activity. This trend is also seen in the United Arab Emirates, including insufficient exercise among university students. This study aimed to evaluate the physical activity level, weight categories, and fat distribution among female college students and determine the correlations and associations between these factors and demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional quasi-experimental study was conducted among 204 female undergraduate health profession students recruited through a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using anthropometric measurements and a self-administered International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The relationships between weight categories (Body Mass Index, BMI), fat distribution (Waist-to-Hip Ratio, WHR), and levels of physical activity, as well as the relationship between BMI and WHR, were analyzed using the PSPP statistical program. Results: The mean age of the students was 20.5 ± 1.9 years, with an average BMI of 25.4 ± 6.6 kg/m2. About 60.3% of the students were moderately active. Physical activity levels were significantly associated with BMI categories (P= 0.008). BMI and WHR categories were also significantly associated (P= 0.012). There was a strong association between students' perceived physical activity levels and their actual activity, as measured by the IPAQ short form (P= 0.001). No significant relationships were found between physical activity, anthropometrics, and demographic characteristics Conclusion: Female college students demonstrated moderate levels of physical activity, and a negative correlation was detected between their physical activity levels and weight categories. None of the studied demographics showed a correlation or association.

Prevalence of sarcopenic obesity in women and its association with level of independent physical activity combined with sedentary behavior.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity and its association with the level of physical activity, alone and combined with sedentary behavior. A cross-sectional study was performed. The sample was composed of 317 women aged between 24 and 59 years. Sarcopenic obesity was determined by the coexistence of sarcopenia (reduced muscle mass and strength) and obesity (% fat). Dual-energy x-ray absorption was used to evaluate muscle mass and % fat, with cutoff points of <15 kg and <31.71%, respectively. Strength was assessed by the handgrip test, with a cutoff point of <21.68 kg. Levels of physical activity and sedentary behavior were assessed using the long version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Individuals who did not achieve 150 minutes per week of physical activity were considered insufficiently active. The cutoff point for sedentary behavior was determined based on the 75th percentile (480 min/wk), considering excessive sedentary behavior (≥75th percentile) and low/moderate sedentary behavior (<75th percentile). The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity was 7.9% (95% CI, 4.9-10.8). Sarcopenic obesity was associated with the general physical activity level (odds ratio, 3.96; 95% CI, 1.32-11.8) and being insufficiently active together with low/moderate sedentary behavior (odds ratio, 4.88; 95% CI, 1.49-16.0). There was the presence of sarcopenic obesity in adult women which was associated with the level of general physical activity, alone and combined with sedentary behavior.

Evaluating the Correlation between Eyeglass-Type Wearable Device Measurements and Subjective Physical Activity Assessments.

Introduction Wearable trackers are instrumental in monitoring various health indicators, notably daily physical activity, which is crucial for managing chronic diseases and improving overall health. This study examined the relationship between physical activity levels measured using JINS MEME, an eyeglass-type wearable device equipped with motion sensors, and subjective activity assessments reported through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Methods Healthy volunteers aged 20-60 were recruited for an observational study. Participants wore the JINS MEME throughout the day for one week, and data on walking activity were collected and analyzed alongside IPAQ responses to evaluate subjective physical activity levels. The correlation between the two sets of data was evaluated using the nonparametric Spearman's rho (ρ) correlation coefficient for both the assessed metabolic equivalents (METs) score of the JINS MEME and the IPAQ. Similarly, the relationship between the IPAQ questionnaire items and the measurements from the JINS MEME. Results The study included 42 participants and revealed a strong correlation (R=0.719, P<0.01) between the metabolic equivalents (METs) calculated from the JINS MEME and IPAQ scores, especially for walking activities. Similarly, a significant association was found between the IPAQ data and walking speed (R=0.129, P=0.02). METs showed significant relationships with all physical activities, except sitting or reclining time. Conclusion This study validated the use of eyeglass-type wearable devices, such as the JINS MEME, to accurately assess physical activity levels, demonstrating a strong correlation with subjective assessments using the IPAQ. This highlights the potential of wearable devices in comprehensive health monitoring and management strategies.

Acceptability of a Portable Exercise Bike in Older Adults With Cardiovascular Diseases.

Ways to help older adults overcome barriers to performing regular exercise is a challenge to nurses. The study evaluated the acceptability of a portable exercise bike for arm/foot pedaling among older patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Participants reported their physical activity levels using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short form) and thereafter performed two 6-minute-long arm/foot pedal biking sessions using a portable exercise bike. Participants provided qualitative feedback (one open-ended question) on the bike while exercising and completed the quantitative Acceptability Use Questionnaire following the two exercise sessions. Twenty-five older adults (52% male and 48% female), with a mean (SD) age of 70 (6.4) years and a body mass index of 30 (7.4), completed the study. Most participants performed moderate to light physical activity at home with a daily mean (SD) sitting/sedentary time of 8 (3.4) hours. The mean scores from the Acceptability Use Questionnaire and the participants' comments alluded to the bike's multitasking utility and acceptability. Three broad themes derived from the qualitative analysis were: (1) the acceptability of the bike with participants who had musculoskeletal problems; (2) the ability to operate and use the bike for aerobic exercise engaging both arms and legs; and (3) the importance of overall utility, ease of use, and cost of the bike. The portable exercise bike was found acceptable in a group of older adults with CVDs. The bike has the potential to be applied in home-based exercise interventions.

An assessment of musculoskeletal disorders and physical activity levels in dentists: Across-sectional study.

Dentistry is a physically and mentally demanding profession that involves long periods of muscle imbalance and asymmetrical postures when performing delicate procedures. This can lead to a high incidence of work-related diseases. However, physical activity may prevent or minimize the incidence of musculoskeletal discomfort and pain. The present study aimed to determine the association between musculoskeletal disorders and physical activity levels in dentists practicing in Turkey. This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and June 2023 with dentists from Turkey actively practicing dentistry. The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to determine dentists' physical activity levels, and the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess musculoskeletal disorders. IBM SPSS 20 software was used for statistical analysis. Data were presented as mean, standard deviation, median, minimum, maximum, percentage, and number. Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, One-Sample Chi-Square tests, and an ordinal logistic regression test were used. The statistical significance level was taken as p < 0.05. A total of 116 dentists (63 females 53 males) between the ages of 24 and 60 (36.37±7.32) were included in the study. Forty-eight participants had a low level of physical activity, 56 had a moderate level of physical activity (MLPA), and 12 had a high level of physical activity (HLPA). There was no significant difference between the gender (p = 0.224) and age (p = 0.469) of the participants and levels of physical activity. Musculoskeletal discomfort was reported by 93.1% (n = 108) of the participants in one or more body parts (p < 0.001) and 55.6% (n = 60) of them were female. The number of dentists with neck (p < 0.001) and shoulder (p = 0.05) problems was significantly higher. There was no significant effect of gender (p > 0.05) on musculoskeletal conditions. However, the relationship between musculoskeletal conditions and physical activity levels was inconsistent. The HLPA group reported the lowest discomfort for all body parts, except the elbows and knees (p < 0.05). The MLPA group reported higher discomfort in the neck, shoulder, upper back, wrists/hands, lower back, and knees. The group with the lowest physical activity exhibited the highest discomfort in the elbow and ankle/feet regions. This study found that the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was high among dentists, many of whom reported either low or moderate physical activity levels. The results of this study may enhance dentists' understanding of work-related musculoskeletal diseases and promote their participation in physical activities.

Associations of Park Use with Physical Activity in Renovated Parks Serving Low-Income Communities in New York City: Insights from the Community Parks Initiative.

Parks have the potential to encourage physical activity among urban communities. However, existing research on the link between park use and physical activity has produced inconsistent results. Mixed findings in the past may be due in part to differences in park quality across studies. The aim of this study was to explore the association between park use and physical activity among New York City adults in low-income communities that recently received city-sponsored park renovation as part of the Community Parks Initiative (CPI). Using population-weighted survey data from eight neighborhoods with recent park renovation (n = 2,000), we measured associations between park use frequency (≥ once/week vs. < once/week) and self-reported physical activity (high vs. low-moderate based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire). We adjusted models for age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, income, study site, and use of other (non-CPI) parks, and conducted stratified analysis for demographic variables with significant interactions with park use. After adjusting for covariates, we observed a positive association between park use and physical activity (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.16-1.46). Greater frequency of park use was more strongly associated with high physical activity among adults ≤ 50 y (PR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.14-1.69), individuals with annual household income < $25,000 (PR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.13-2.08), and Latinos (PR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.44-2.18). Our findings suggest that high-quality parks might be particularly beneficial for promoting physical activity among those with a lower socioeconomic background and in younger and Latino adults, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in park revitalization among urban communities of color.

Sedentary behavior and associated factors on admissions to internal medicine wards.

The relationship between sedentary lifestyle and chronic diseases is well known. This study examined the prevalence and factors associated with reduced physical activity (PA) among internal medicine inpatients on admission. In this single-center, cross-sectional study, inpatients aged 50years or older were prospectively enrolled at a tertiary care facility in Ankara, Türkiye. PA was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Care and performance indicators, quality of life (EQ-5D 3L), nutritional status, timed up-and-go test, muscle strength, and cognitive status were assessed. Participants were classified into 3 groups of PA levels as low, moderate, and high. Study end points were the prevalence of low PA level and associated factors. Of the 240 participants (mean age: 62.7 ± 8.0years; women: 50%), 47.1% (n = 113), 40.8% (n = 98) and 12.1% (n = 29) had low, moderate, and high PA, respectively. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (45.1%), hypertension (66.4%), coronary artery disease (41.6%), dementia (8.8%), and multimorbidity (53.1%) were more common in the low PA group. Outdoor walking < 3days per week (OR: 4.44, 95% CI 1.55 to 12.74, p = 0.006, functional dependence in and outside home (OR: 4.25, 95% CI 1.13 to 15.92, p = 0.032) and EQ-5D VAS score (OR: 0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.99, p = 0.011) were independently associated with low PA level on multivariable logistic regression analysis. This study found low or medium levels of PA in almost nine out of ten admissions to an internal medicine clinic. On the other hand, low PA level was not associated with most classical comorbidities but with altered performance and care indicators.

The relationship between core endurance, physical activity level and balance in office workers

Objectives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between core endurance tests and physical activity level, balance, ergonomics and pain in office workers. Methods. The study included 57 office workers who had been employed for at least 1 year. Core endurance was assessed using McGill core endurance tests. Physical activity, balance, pain and ergonomic risks were evaluated with the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ), timed up and go (TUG), visual analog scale (VAS) and rapid office strain assessment (ROSA), respectively. Results. A significant correlation was found between balance and static core endurance tests. However, no significant correlation was found between ergonomics and physical activity level and core endurance tests except for trunk extension and prone bridge tests. In addition, there was a significant difference in core endurance tests for patients with and without regular exercise habits. Waist circumference and hip circumference measurements were found to be significantly negatively associated with static core tests. Conclusion. Core endurance was found to be associated with exercise habits, balance, hip and waist circumference and ergonomics in office workers. Improving core endurance may be beneficial for preventing musculoskeletal risks in office workers.