Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire Research Articles

Prediction of Cardiorespiratory Fitness Level of Young Healthy Women Using Non-Exercise Variables

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is considered an important indicator of health in children and adults. The main contribution of this paper is an analysis of cardiorespiratory fitness predictive models among a population of healthy and young women, using the non-exercise variables. The study was conducted on a group of 154 healthy women (aged 20.3 ± 1.2) from selected academic centers in Poland. The VO2max was measured using a Cosmed K4b2 portable analyzer during a 20 m shuttle test. In addition, selected anthropomotor parameters including body composition components were measured for each subject. The participants’ leisure-time physical activity was assessed using the Minnesota Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire. The Ridge regression was the most accurate model for estimating VO2max from anthropometric parameters. The most accurate model based on the level of leisure-time physical activity was calculated using stepwise regression for which the prediction error was at the level of 6.68 (mL·kg−1·min−1). The best model calculated from all non-exercise variables (age, anthropometric parameters, and leisure-time physical activity) had only two predictors: waist circumference and total physical activity, and had a prediction error equal to 6.20 (mL·kg−1·min−1).

Irisin is more strongly associated with leisure-time physical activity than resistin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol are

Background/ObjectivesIrisin is a myokine with a potential role in cardiometabolic diseases, but previous studies have described inconsistencies between serum irisin and physical activity (PA). Our aim was to analyze the relationship between serum irisin and leisure-time PA (LTPA) in a large sample of the general adult population, and secondarily, to evaluate its relationship with two PA-related biomarkers (HDL cholesterol and resistin). MethodsA cross-sectional study was nested in the “CDC of the Canary Islands” cohort participants (n = 3827, 18–75 years, 60% women). PA was collected by administering the Minnesota leisure-time physical activity questionnaire, and physical examination and blood tests (irisin, resistin, HDL-cholesterol) were performed. ResultsIrisin inversely correlated with BMI (p < 0.001 in women) and resistin (p = 0.038 in women, p = 0.004 in men), and directly with HDL cholesterol (p < 0.001in women). There was a direct association of irisin with leisure-time and energy expenditure in light, moderate and vigorous LTPA, which was stronger in women than men. The distribution of leisure-time and PA variables across irisin quintiles showed a significant trend, except for light LPTA in men. Adjusting for age, sex and BMI, the association of irisin with leisure-time and LTPA variables was stronger than the association of these variables with resistin and HDL cholesterol, reaching the strongest association for irisin with the 80th percentile of time of LTPA (OR = 2.57; 95% CI = 2.00–3.31). ConclusionsThere is a direct and independent association between serum irisin levels and LTPA in the general adult population, which is stronger than other biomarkers of PA. Findings on exercise-related irisin support the possibility of irisin health benefits.

Association of physical activity with vascular aging in a population with intermediate cardiovascular risk, analysis by sex: MARK study

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to analyze the association of physical activity and its intensity with arterial stiffness and vascular aging and differences by sex in a Spanish population with intermediate cardiovascular risk.MethodsCross-sectional study. A total of 2475 individuals aged 35–75 years participated in the study. Brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) was measured using a VaSera VS-1500® device. Based on the age and sex percentile presented by the participants, the latter were classified as follows: those with a percentile above 90 and presenting established cardiovascular disease were classified as early vascular aging (EVA); those with a percentile between 10 and 90 were classified as normal vascular aging (NVA) and those with a percentile below 10 were classified as healthy vascular aging (HVA). Physical activity was analyzed through the short version of the Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ).ResultsThe mean age of the participants was 61.34 ± 7.70 years, with 61.60% men. Of the total sample, 86% were sedentary (83% men vs 90% women). The total physical activity showed a negative association with baPWV (β = − 0.045; 95% CI − 0.080 to − 0.009). Intense physical activity showed a negative relationship with baPWV (β = − 0.084; 95% CI − 0.136 to − 0.032). The OR of the total physical activity and the intense physical activity carried out by the subjects classified as NVA with respect to those classified as HVA was OR = 0.946; (95% CI 0.898 to 0.997) and OR = 0.903; (95% CI 0.840 to 0.971), and of those classified as EVA it was OR = 0.916; (95% CI 0.852 to 0.986) and OR = 0.905; (95% CI 0.818 to 1.000). No association was found with moderate- or low-intensity physical activity.ConclusionsThe results of this study suggest that, when intense physical activity is performed, the probability of presenting vascular aging is lower. In the analysis by sex, this association is only observed in men.

Usefulness of Self-Reported Physical Activity and Clinical Outcomes in Older Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

Current guidelines encourage regular physical activity (PA) to gain cardiovascular health benefit. However, little is known about whether older adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) who engage in the guideline-recommended level of PA are less likely to experience clinically relevant outcomes. We did a retrospective study based on the data from Systemic Assessment of Geriatric Elements in AF (SAGE-AF) prospective cohort study. The study population consisted of older participants with AF (≥65 years) and a congestive heart failure, hypertension, age, diabetes, stroke vascular disease, age 65 to 75 and sex(CHA2DS2-VASc) score ≥2. PA was quantified by self-reported Minnesota Leisure Time PA questionnaire. Competing risk models were used to examine the association between PA level and clinical outcomes over 2 years while controlling for several potentially confounding variables. A total of 1,244 participants (average age 76 years; 51% men; 85% non-Hispanic White) were studied. A total of 50.5% of participants engaged in regular PA. Meeting the recommended level of PA was associated with lower mortality over 2 years (adjusted hazard ratio 0.60, 95% confidence interval 0.38 to 0.95) but was not associated with rates of stroke or major bleeding. In conclusion, older adults with AF who engaged in guideline-recommended PA are more likely to survive in the long term. Healthcare providers should promote and encourage engagement in PA and tailor interventions to address barriers of engagement.

Longitudinal association between cardiometabolic comorbidities and physical activity in middle aged and older adults living with HIV.

Cardiometabolic comorbidities have been associated with lower levels of physical activity (PA) among people living with HIV (PLWH). However, little is known about the longitudinal relationship between cardiometabolic comorbidities and PA participation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the longitudinal association between cardiometabolic comorbidities and PA in PLWH. PLWH from New York City and with complete PA and cardiometabolic comorbidity data between December 2016 and October 2020 were included. PA was evaluated using energy expenditure from the Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ). Body composition was measured using body mass index (BMI) and different waist circumference measures. Diabetes and hyperlipidemia were determined by physician diagnosis. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was evaluated through blood samples. Linear mixed-effects models analyses were conducted to assess the longitudinal relationship between cardiometabolic comorbidities and PA. A total of 164 participants (mean age 59.6years; 48.2% females) were included. The mean follow-up period was 22.7months (SD=7.9). Higher BMI was associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p<.05). An obese BMI was associated with lower levels of physical activity in kcals/week (p<.05). Higher mid-waist and umbilical circumference were associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p<.05). Having hyperlipidemia was associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p<.01). Having a diabetes diagnosis and elevated HbA1c were also associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p<.05). Cardiometabolic comorbidities can have repercussions on PA participation among PLWH, which can in turn increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.

Mediterranean Diet and Lifestyle Index Development for Older Adults

ObjectivesThe Mediterranean diet is associated with many health benefits, yet it is typically only the food pattern that is assessed without consideration for lifestyle attributes that accompany a Mediterranean way of life. The Mediterranean diet pyramid includes lifestyle activities at the base of the pyramid such as regular physical activity (PA), adequate rest, conviviality, biodiversity and seasonality, traditional local and eco-friendly products, and culinary activities. The purpose of this study was to design and pilot test a Mediterranean diet and lifestyle index for older adults in the U.S.MethodsThe Harvard Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to determine the alternative Mediterranean Diet Score (aMed). The short version of the Minnesota Leisure Time PA questionnaire and additional Mediterranean diet-related dietary habit and lifestyle questions were piloted in 75 older adults attending senior centers.ResultsParticipants were primarily women (80.6%) and Caucasian (68%) with an average age of 71.89+/−7.60 years. A 27-item index including the aMed food groups, dietary habits, PA, culinary activities, purchasing of local and seasonal foods, and adequate rest resulted in a reliable score (α = 0.75). Individual index factors correlated with the overall Mediterranean diet and lifestyle score.ConclusionsWhile this Mediterranean diet and lifestyle index resulted in good internal consistency; assessment of conviviality, especially for older adults in the time of Covid-19, need be re-evaluated as a lifestyle measure that can impact dietary intake and overall health.Funding SourcesEastern Michigan University Faculty Research Fellowship Award.

Development of stratified normative data and reference equations for the timed up and down stairs test for healthy children 6–14 years of age

ObjectivesTo generate normative data on healthy children aged 6–14 years for the timed up and down stairs (TUDS) test, and to provide reference equations. Design and settingCross-sectional study at two primary schools. ParticipantsHealthy children 6–14 years of age. Main outcomes measuresAnthropometric data and Minnesota Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire from children were collected before the start of the TUDS test. Heart rate, blood pressure and perceived exertion were measured at the beginning and at the end of the test. Two trials of the TUDS test were performed with 15-minute of rest on the same day and the better of the two trials was used in the analyses. The reference equations were established using the anthropometric variables as possible predictors of the TUDS test. ResultsTwo hundred fifty eight children (125 boys and 133 girls) were assessed. The mean TUDS test score decreased significantly from 6 to 14 years of age in boys and girls alike, with statistically significant differences between the three age range groups. A significant difference was found between girls and boys in TUDS test score. The 56% of the variation in TUDS test score could be explained by age, height, and weight in boys [TUDSsec score=(9.967−(0.182×Ageyears)+(0.025×Weightkg)−(2.546×Heightm)], while 50% could be explained in girls [TUDSsec score=10.553−(0.194×Ageyears)+(0.019×Weightkg)−(2.406×Heightm)]. The inclusion of physical level activity increased the variability explained (boys: 59%; girls: 51%). ConclusionsTUDS score improved as the age of the children increased, with boys achieving better values than girls within each age group. TUDS test score can be easily predicted from age, height, and weight. The inclusion of the child's physical activity level increased the variance explained by the equation.

THE INTENSITY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND THE HEALTH-RELATED BEHAVIOUR OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS OF SELECTED MAJORS

The health of a society is conditioned by healthy lifestyle choices. A significant role in shaping health-related behaviour is played by university students, who should be leaders in the scope of health in the future. Our aim was to determine the intensity of physical activities and their relation with the intensity of health-related behaviours of university students of selected majors. Our research covered 372 students of physical education (292) and social sciences (108) from Poznań and Szczecin. We applied Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ) and Health Behaviour Inventory (HBI). The relations between the level of physical activity (PA) and the health behaviour of the students were determined by intra-group correlations (r). The value of p&lt;0.05 was adopted as statistically significant. Physical education (PE) and public health (PH) students showed higher levels of PA and health behaviour as compared to the students of social sciences (SS). The total activity metabolic index (AMI) indicated a lower level of PA among women, regardless of major. PA [4; 6) MET of tourism and recreation (T&amp;R) students was highly and positively correlated with preventive behaviours (PB) (r=0.69). PA &lt;4 MET of female T&amp;R students and male PE students positively correlated with correct eating habits (CEH). We found negative correlations between PA ≥6 MET of female PE students and male PH students [4-6) and ≥6 MET and health practices (HP), as well as PA [4-6 MET) of male PE students and positive mental attitude (PMA). Positive and negative correlations between free-time physical activity and health-related behaviours indicate the need for regular physical and health education of students. Physical activity, correct eating habits and preventive behaviour of students will increase their chances of promoting a healthy lifestyle in society.

Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Metabolic Syndrome in Older Adults.

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus type 2 which may be reduced by practicing regular physical activity. Objective: To assess the leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) of older adults with MetS and without MetS. Methods: Cross-sectional study of older adults (55–80 years old) from Balearic Islands (Spain) with MetS (n = 333; 55% men) and without MetS (n = 144; 43.8% men). LTPA was assessed with the validated Spanish version of the Minnesota LTPA Questionnaire. Two criteria of physically active were used: >150 min/week of moderate physical activity or >75 min/week of vigorous physical activity or a combination of both, and total leisure-time energy expenditure of >300 MET·min/day. Sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics, anthropometric variables, MetS components, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) were also measured. Results: MetS subjects showed lower energy expenditure in LTPA, lower adherence to the MD, higher obesity and waist circumference, and were less active than non-MetS peers. LTPA increased as participants got older and there was higher LTPA intensity as educational level increased. Adherence to MD was as high as LTPA was. Conclusions: MetS is associated with physical inactivity and unhealthy diet. To increase LTPA recommendations and raise awareness in the population about the health benefits of PA and high adherence to MD is highly recommended.

GCKR rs780094 Polymorphism as A Genetic Variant Involved in Physical Exercise.

Exercise performance is influenced by genetics. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the role played by genetic variability in the frequency of physical exercise practice. The objective was to identify genetic variants that modulate the commitment of people to perform physical exercise and to detect those subjects with a lower frequency practice. A total of 451 subjects were genotyped for 64 genetic variants related to inflammation, circadian rhythms, vascular function as well as energy, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Physical exercise frequency question and a Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ) were used to qualitatively and quantitatively measure the average amount of physical exercise. Dietary intake and energy expenditure due to physical activity were also studied. Differences between genotypes were analyzed using linear and logistic models adjusted for Bonferroni. A significant association between GCKR rs780094 and the times the individuals performed physical exercise was observed (p = 0.004). The carriers of the minor allele showed a greater frequency of physical exercise in comparison to the major homozygous genotype carriers (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.36–2.56). The analysis of the GCKR rs780094 variant suggests a possible association with the subjects that present lower frequency of physical exercise. Nevertheless, future studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Relationship Between Fitness and Active-Sedentary Behavior with Cognitive and Emotional Recognition in Elderly: Core Study

The decline in cognitive function and emotional regulation in aging have broad negative implications for independence, social competence and behavior that affect health. These impaired conditions can be exacerbated by increased sedentary behavior (SB) and lower levels of physical activity (PA) and fitness. However, it is not clear which of these have a higher relationship with cognitive function and emotional regulation in elderly. PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between cognitive function and emotional regulation with physical fitness, PA and SB in the elderly. METHODS: This preliminary analysis of the Cardiovascular, Cognitive and Exercise Study in the Elderly (CORE) included 60 volunteers (64±3.47 years; female n: 39), who performed a cognitive task (Wisconsin cards sorting test) and an emotional facial recognition task, physical fitness test (senior fitness test and handgrip strength), PA level (Minnesota Leisure-time Physical Activity Questionnaire) and sedentary behavior questionnaire (Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam). Bivariate correlations using Spearman’s rho (ρ) were used with statistical significance set at 5%. RESULTS: Significant relationship between cognitive performance with, leg strength (total correct response, ρ=0.28; total errors, ρ=-0.28; and non-perseverative errors, ρ=-0.28), 6-min walking test (total correct response, ρ=0.31; total errors, ρ=-0.31; and non-perseverative errors, ρ=-0.30) and SB (perseverative errors ρ{\displaystyle \rho }=-0.27). Also, the reaction time (RT) during the emotional facial recognition had a significant relationship with upper body strength (RT positive ρ=-0.26; RT negative ρ=-0.33) and PA level (MET, hr/w) (RT negative ρ=-0.31). Also, a significant relationship between worse cognitive performance with handgrip strength (non-perseverative errors, ρ=0.26) and SB (perseverative errors, ρ=-0.27). CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary results suggest that physical fitness and SB are associated with cognitive performance. Also, PA level and upper body strength are associated with emotional performance. These findings suggest the importance between the balance of maintaining an active behavior and the inclusion of aerobic and resistance exercises to improve cognition and emotional regulation in the elderly.

Association between Access to Public Open Spaces and Physical Activity in a Mediterranean Population at High Cardiovascular Risk.

Background: Regular physical activity is an important preventive factor of cardiovascular disease. Proximity and density of public open spaces are important modifying factors on the practice of physical activity. This article explores the cross-sectional relationship between access to public open spaces (POS) and leisure time physical activity (LTPA) in elderly participants at high cardiovascular risk from PREDIMED-Baleares. Method: 428 elderly subjects at high cardiovascular risk, participating in the PREDIMED trial, from Palma de Mallorca (Spain) were assessed using Geographic Information Systems, and access to POS was determined. The quantity and intensity of LTPA was calculated using the Minnesota Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire. In order investigate the association between access to POS and LTPA, generalized linear regression models were used. Results: Better access to POS was not consistently associated with total LTPA. Only distance to the nearest park showed a borderline significant positive associated with total LTPA and moderate-vigorous LTPA but was not associated with light LTPA. Conclusions: Although living near POS was not associated to total LTPA, higher levels of moderate-vigorous LTPA were associated to distances to the nearest park. Future work should be conducted on a larger sample size, integrating a longitudinal design, and greater heterogeneity in POS access and introducing objective measures of physical activity.

High Leisure-Time Physical Activity Is Associated With Reduced Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death Among Men With Low Cardiorespiratory Fitness

BackgroundWe studied the independent and joint associations of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) with the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) among middle-aged men. MethodsThe participants were 2656 randomly selected men aged 42-60 years at baseline who were followed for 19 years. LTPA was assessed using a questionnaire modified from the Minnesota LTPA Questionnaire and CRF using a respiratory gas exchange analyzer during maximal exercise test. The participants were divided into 4 groups according to the level of LTPA and CRF dichotomized at the lowest tertiles. ResultsMen with low CRF had a 1.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-2.3; P = 0.011) times higher risk of SCD than men with high CRF after adjustment for conventional risk factors. Men with low LTPA had a 1.4 (95% CI, 1.0-2.0; P = 0.032) times higher SCD risk than men with high LTPA after these adjustments. Men with low CRF and low LTPA had a 2.2 (95% CI, 1.4-3.3) times higher SCD risk than men with high CRF and high LTPA adjusting for conventional risk factors (P = 0.044 for interaction). ConclusionsIt seems that low LTPA increases the risk of SCD particularly among men with low CRF but the level of LTPA does not modify the incidence of SCD among men with high CRF.

Trace element contents in toenails are related to regular physical activity in older adults.

The aim was to assess the trace element contents in toenails of older adults and its association with regular physical activity. Cross-sectional multicentre study in Spain, collecting data from a random sample of 380 participants (54% female) aged 55–80 years (men) and 60–80 years (women) with no previously documented cardiovascular disease. Physical activity performed was measured using the Minnesota Leisure-time Physical Activity Questionnaire. The 25 most inactive and 25 most active individuals for each sex were selected for this study (final sample n = 100). Anthropometric measurements were performed and toenail samples collected for calcium (Ca), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se) and mercury (Hg) analysis. Significant differences between sexes were reported in Ca concentrations, women having lower concentrations than men. No differences were reported in trace element contents between active and inactive men. Active women showed higher Ca, Cr, Fe, Co, and Zn and lower Hg contents than their inactive peers (all p<0.05). Inactive women showed lower Ca and Co levels (735.0 mg/kg and 4.5 μg/kg, respectively) than inactive men (1170.0 mg/kg and 7.9 μg/kg, respectively). Active women had lower Ca and higher levels of Cr (936.0 mg/kg and 1230.0 μg/kg, respectively) than active men (1070.0 mg/kg and 522.0 μg/kg, respectively). The present data added new information on the element contents in toenails of healthy Spanish older adults. The concentration of trace elements was similar in both sexes except for Ca which were lower in women. The trace element contents in women’s toenails, but not in men, were markedly influenced by physical activity, with higher levels of Ca and Fe and lower Hg among active females.

Western and Mediterranean Dietary Patterns and Physical Activity and Fitness among Spanish Older Adults.

Objectives: To assess prevailing food patterns, and its association with physical activity and fitness among Spanish older adults. Methods: Cross-sectional study in Spain, collecting data from a sample (n = 380; 54% female) aged 55–80 years (men) and 60–80 years (women) with no previously documented cardiovascular disease. Body weight, body fat and waist circumference were assessed. Physical activity performed was measured using the Minnesota Leisure-time Physical Activity Questionnaire (LTPA). Physical fitness was assessed using a validated physical fitness test battery. Food consumption was assessed by a validated semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Factor analysis identified two major dietary food patterns: “Western” (WDP) and “Mediterranean” (MDP) dietary patterns. Results: Participants in MDP’s fourth quartile were classified in the second (men) and third (men and women) tertile of LTPA. After adjusting for age, body fat, waist-to-height ratio, and METs, in both sexes, a negative significant association was found between 30-s Chair stand and 6-min walking test, a positive significant association was found between 30-m Gait speed and 8-foot Time Up-and-Go (except in men) tests with WDP. The 30-m Gait speed test was negatively associated with MDP in men. Conclusions: MDP is associated with more time spent on LTPA, and this association was independent of body composition and a fast gait speed in men. WDP is associated with slower gait speed and lower body strength, agility and aerobic endurance. MDP has protective effect on healthy physical fitness, and WDP may be a contributor to frailty.

Lean Body Mass Associated with Upper Body Strength in Healthy Older Adults While Higher Body Fat Limits Lower Extremity Performance and Endurance.

Impaired strength adversely influences an older person’s ability to perform activities of daily living. A cross-sectional study of 117 independently living men and women (age = 73.4 ± 9.4 year; body mass index (BMI) = 27.6 ± 4.8 kg/m2) aimed to assess the association between body composition and: (1) upper body strength (handgrip strength, HGS); (2) lower extremity performance (timed up and go (TUG) and sit to stand test (STS)); and (3) endurance (6-minute walk (SMWT). Body composition (% fat; lean body mass (LBM)) was assessed using bioelectrical impedance. Habitual physical activity was measured using the Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPA) and dietary macronutrient intake, assessed using 24 h recalls and 3-day food records. Regression analyses included the covariates, protein intake (g/kg), MLTPA, age and sex. For natural logarithm (Ln) of right HGS, LBM (p < 0.001) and % body fat (p < 0.005) were significant (r2 = 46.5%; p < 0.000). For left LnHGS, LBM (p < 0.000), age (p = 0.036), protein intake (p = 0.015) and LnMLTPA (p = 0.015) were significant (r2 = 0.535; p < 0.000). For SMW, % body fat, age and LnMLTPA were significant (r2 = 0.346; p < 0.000). For STS, % body fat and age were significant (r2 = 0.251; p < 0.000). LBM is a strong predictor of upper body strength while higher % body fat and lower physical activity are associated with poorer outcomes on tests of lower extremity performance.

Psychosocial moderators of associations between life events and changes in physical activity after leaving high school

ObjectivesTo examine 1) associations between life events and changes in leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) in school leavers and 2) whether these associations are moderated by psychosocial factors. MethodsFinal year students (n=440) from high schools in rural Western Australia completed annual telephone interviews on three occasions; baseline (T1), one-year follow-up (T2; n=440) and two-year follow-up (T3; n=374). LTPA was measured using the Minnesota Leisure-time Physical Activity Questionnaire. Life events included moving out of home, working full-time and studying full-time. Psychosocial factors included enjoyment, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, club membership, and support from family and friends. Mixed linear regression models examined the effect of life events on changes in LTPA from T1 to T2 and T1 to T3. ResultsA decline in LTPA across all time points was observed. Those who continued full-time education had a smaller LTPA decline than those who did not. Those who were not a member of a sporting club at T1 had greater LTPA decline if they worked full-time at T2. ConclusionsThere is a need for interventions to prevent declines in LTPA among school leavers, especially those who do not enter tertiary education. Encouraging sporting club membership during high school might be important.

Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire in medical practice and health promotion

AbstractThe prevention of chronic diseases, especially metabolic disorders, is based on modification of behavioural risk factors, in particular eating habits and physical activity. Numerous population studies have demonstrated a relationship between regular physical activity and decreased levels of risk factors for CVD (cardiovascular disease), type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Increasing the level of physical activity as part of the programs implemented for disease prevention or health promotion for selected populations requires a behavioural diagnosis, whereby an essential element is the preferred leisure-time activity in terms of the structure of negative health indicators. Evaluation of physical activity under population studies requires a simple, validated and inexpensive tool to be used in medical practice or health promotion. The Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ) is a tool currently often used and validated with laboratory methods. Standard MLTPAQ allows for assessment of the level of physical activity undertaken in leisure time. The authors present an algorithm for assessing leisure-time physical activity level based on MLTPAQ. The paper also reviews the practical application of the MLTPAQ questionnaire on healthy and patient populations in Poland and other countries by specialists in public health, health promotion and in medical practice.

Leisure time physical activity and health-related behaviours after liver transplantation: a prospective, single-centre study.

IntroductionLeisure time physical activity is of proven significance in surveys of fitness levels in various patient groups. Low physical functioning may affect recovery after liver transplantation (LTx).AimTo assess patients’ leisure time activity and health-related habits after transplantation.Material and methodsOne hundred and seven patients after LTx were included. They were divided into groups depending on aetiology of liver problem and the period after LTx. Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MILTPAQ) and Health Behaviour Inventory (HBI) were applied.ResultsNeither the primary indication for the procedure nor the period after surgery had a significant relationship with physical activity assessed with MILTPAQ; however, activity was lower in females than males (1804.3 ±1848.9 vs. 2619.9 ±2067; p = 0.03). Age at survey/surgery was inversely associated with higher activity (p = 0.02 and p = 0.03, respectively). Health Behaviour Inventory analysis showed a correlation between all four of its domains and age at transplantation/survey (p < 0.001 for both). There was a negative correlation between positive mental attitude and body mass index (BMI).ConclusionsThe primary indications for grafting and, surprisingly, the period after surgery did not seem to be related to the patients’ physical activity in leisure time. Younger and leaner patients appeared to understand the standards of healthy behaviour better and implement them in their daily activities. As higher BMI are associated with a negative mental attitude in patients after LTx, a particular emphasis should be placed on proper counselling in this subgroup of patients.

P65 Static Balance Deficit In Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics And Risk Of Significant Falls

Background Balance deficits are associated with increased risk of falls. The tandem stand (maintaining heel to toe stance for 10 seconds or more) is an established practical measure of static balance, and is associated with increased risk of falls and disability in community dwelling adults. The aim of the study was to establish the prevalence of static balance deficit in outpatients with stable COPD and any association with exercise capacity, lower limb muscle function and health related quality of life. Furthermore, it is not known whether the tandem stand predicts future risk of significant falls in patients with COPD. Method 174 outpatients with stable COPD (mean (SD) age 70 (9) years, FEV1 50 (21)% predicted) were stratified according to their ability to successfully complete the tandem stand. The incremental shuttle walk (ISW) test, habitual gait speed over 4 metres (4MGS), quadriceps maximal voluntary contraction (QMVC), the COPD assessment test (CAT), physical activity levels (defined as time spent in >3 METS according to the modified Minnesota Leisure-time Physical Activity Questionnaire) were also recorded. Self-reported falls and significant falls (defined as fall resulting in fracture or cerebral injury), corroborated by primary care records, were recorded over the following 12 months. Results 24% could not complete the tandem stand. Compared to those able to complete a tandem stand, these patients were significantly older, had lower maximal exercise capacity, weaker quadriceps muscle force and reduced daily physical activity (Table 1). No significant falls were reported within the whole cohort, but 20 patients (11%) reported non-injury falls after 12 months of follow-up (failed tandem: 19% versus successful tandem: 9%; p = 0.10). Conclusion Static balance deficit is common in patients with COPD, and is associated with reduced exercise capacity, quadriceps weakness and reduced daily physical activity. The tandem stand does not predict future risk of falls. Significant falls were not observed in this cohort.