Moderate-intensity Physical Activity Research Articles

Introduction: The “one-size-fits-all” recommendations in current physical activity (PA) guidelines have been challenged, and optimal PA patterns across individuals with varying predicted cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk remain unclear. Methods: We analyzed 72 884 UK Biobank participants (mean [SD] age, 56.0 [7.8] years; 57.1% female), with total volume of PA (TPA), moderate-intensity PA (MPA), vigorous-intensity PA (VPA), moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA), and sedentary time assessed by accelerometers. Participants were divided into low-to-moderate-, high-, or very high-risk groups by the updated Systemic Coronary Risk Estimation 2 (SCORE2), SCORE2-Older Persons, and SCORE2-Diabetes algorithms. Cox regression and compositional data analysis were used to estimate the association between PA and incident CVD events and the potential benefit of reallocating sedentary time to MVPA. Results: A total of 5695 incident CVD events occurred. Higher TPA and MVPA were associated with lower CVD risk, and the association was most pronounced among those from the very high-risk group ( Figures 1 and 2 ). For example, the hazard ratio (HR) was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.74-0.86), 0.84 (0.82-0.86) and 0.84 (0.81-0.87) per 1-SD increase in MVPA for individuals with very-high, high and low-to-moderate risk, respectively (P interaction <0.001). In addition, individuals may benefit more from allocating sedentary time to active PA with the increased predicted CVD risk ( Figure 3A ). Further analyses revealed that current recommendations from PA guidelines (150-300 min/week of MPA or 75-150 min/week of VPA [or an equivalent combination]) should be refined according to individuals’ risk stratification. In low-to-moderate-risk individuals, any guideline-recommended combinations of MPA and VPA were beneficial. In high-risk individuals, VPA exceeding 60 min/week may attenuate benefits, while in very high-risk individuals, optimal benefits were observed at 42 min/week of VPA, beyond which benefits may decline ( Figure 3B ). Conclusions: Optimal PA pattern for cardiovascular health significantly varied across individuals at different risk, and the optimal VPA threshold should be underscored, especially for high- or very high-risk groups. This study calls for personalized PA recommendations by integrating risk assessment, and provides evidence for promoting the guidelines towards a more comprehensive and individualized development.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the most common non-communicable diseases worldwide and is linked to high risks of complications, disability, and reduced quality of life. Consequently, there is an increasing need for effective non-drug treatment options, especially physical rehabilitation and personalized physical activity. Aim. To summarize current scientific evidence on the role of physical activity and rehabilitation technologies in the comprehensive management of patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and to analyze the effectiveness of existing approaches considering clinical, functional, and age-related factors. Materials and Methods. An analytical review of 36 scientific publications from international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) was conducted. The selected studies focused on the use of physical therapy in Type 2 diabetes mellitus, were of high methodological quality, and provided data on the effects of physical activity on metabolic, functional, and psycho-emotional indicators. Results. This article summarizes current approaches to the use of therapeutic exercise, kinesiotherapy, massage, hydrotherapy, diet therapy, and phytotherapy in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Special attention is given to the importance of individualized exercise programs based on disease compensation level, cardiovascular comorbidities, physical fitness, and coexisting conditions. It has been shown that moderate-intensity physical activity (60–75% HRmax) improves insulin sensitivity, reduces body weight, normalizes glycemia, and prevents complications. Emphasis is placed on the gradual increase in physical load, glycemic control before and after exercise, and the importance of psycho-emotional support. Conclusions. Integrating physical rehabilitation methods into the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus significantly enhances therapy effectiveness, improves patients' quality of life, and reduces the risk of complications. A promising direction is the development of differentiated rehabilitation programs tailored to individual clinical and physiological characteristics.

Purposes: We determined whether meeting the 2018 physical activity time-intensity guidelines was associated with better microvascular function, assessed by calf muscle oxygen saturation (StO 2 ), and better ambulation than failing to meet the guidelines in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD). Methods: Five hundred and two patients were assessed on daily ambulatory activity for one week with a step activity monitor, and were grouped according to whether they achieved less than 150 min of moderate intensity physical activity per week and whether they walked fewer than 7,000 steps/day (Group 1=Do Not Meet Guidelines; n=272), or whether they were above these thresholds (Group 2=Meet Guidelines; n=230). Peak walking time (PWT) was measured during a standardized Gardner-Skinner graded treadmill protocol, and calf muscle StO 2 was continuously measured over the medial gastrocnemius muscle of the more symptomatic leg using a continuous-wave, near-infrared spectrometer system. Results: Peak walking time (PWT) during the treadmill test was greater in Group 2 than in Group 1 (622±326 sec vs. 398±259 sec, p<0.001). Exercise time to reach the minimum calf muscle StO 2 was also greater in Group 2 than in Group 1 (297±329 sec vs. 204±227 sec, p=0.015). In multivariable analyses, the greater time to reach the minimum calf muscle StO 2 in Group 2 persisted after adjusting for ankle/brachial index (p=0.018). Conclusions: Patients with symptomatic PAD who met the 2018 physical activity time-intensity guidelines had better microvascular function and prolonged PWT during treadmill exercise than patients who were less physically active. The clinical significance is that performing enough daily ambulation to meet the physical activity time-intensity guidelines is a simple goal that is associated with better leg microcirculation and ambulation in symptomatic patients with PAD.

RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations pertain to the management of weight over the reproductive years for adult women living with obesity (i.e. body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) with a singleton pregnancy, who are ≥18 years of age and do not have pre-existing diabetes or gestational diabetes. General advice. We recommend that healthcare providers (HCPs) should discuss weight management targets specific to the reproductive years with adult women living with obesity: pre-conception weight loss (Level 3, Grade C); gestational weight gain of 5 - 9 kg over the entire pregnancy (Level 4, Grade D); and postpartum weight loss of – at minimum – gestational weight gain (Level 3, Grade C), to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes in the current or a future pregnancy. Combined behaviour change interventions. HCPs should offer behaviour change interventions, including both nutrition and physical activity, to adult women living with obesity who are considering a pregnancy (Level 3, Grade C), who are pregnant (Level 2a, Grade B) and who are postpartum (Level 1a, Grade A),[16] in order to achieve weight targets. Nutrition counselling alone. We recommend that HCPs encourage and support pregnant women with obesity to consume foods consistent with a healthy dietary pattern in order to meet their target gestational weight gain (Level 3, Grade C). Physical activity counselling alone. We recommend that HCPs encourage and support pregnant women with obesity who do not have contraindications to exercise during pregnancy to engage in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity to assist in the management of gestational weight gain (Level 3, Grade C). Pharmacotherapy. HCPs should not prescribe metformin for managing gestational weight gain in women with obesity (Level 1b, Grade A). We suggest no weight management medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding (Level 4, Grade D). Breastfeeding. We recommend that women with obesity be offered additional breastfeeding support owing to decreased rates of initiation and continuation (Level 3, Grade C).

The high prevalence of stress and sleep disorders among medical students necessitates effective, non-pharmacological interventions. While both yogic breathing and physical activity are beneficial, their comparative efficacy on these specific outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the effects of a structured yogic breathing intervention and moderate-intensity physical activity on perceived stress levels and subjective sleep quality in healthy medical students. A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 170 participants allocated to either a Yogic Breathing Group (n=85) or a Physical Activity Group (n=85). The intervention lasted five weeks, with sessions conducted five days per week. The primary outcomes, psychological stress and sleep quality, were assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), respectively, at baseline and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and Analysis of co-variance. Both groups showed significant within-group improvements in stress (p<0.001). However, between-group analysis revealed that the Yogic Breathing group achieved a significantly greater reduction in DASS-21 scores compared to the Physical Activity group (mean Δ: -14.43 ± 6.21 vs. -3.69 ± 5.12; p<0.001). Conversely, the Physical Activity group demonstrated a significantly greater improvement in PSQI scores than the Yogic Breathing group (mean Δ: -0.96 ± 1.42 vs. -0.40 ± 1.05; p=0.012). Yogic breathing was superior for reducing perceived stress, whereas physical activity was more effective for enhancing sleep quality. The results indicate that both approaches complement each other rather than replace one another. Selecting the right approach should depend on the specific needs, helping to provide a more individualized plan for well-being.

Hypertension in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health challenge, with cardiovascular disease being the major cause of mortality in CKD. Several factors play a role in its pathophysiology, including renin-angiotensin system activation. Guidelines for blood pressure management in CKD patients demonstrate some variation in their recommended targets and therapeutic approach. However, current practice increasingly adopts stricter systolic blood pressure target when tolerable. A daily sodium intake of less than 2 grams and engagement in moderate-intensity physical activity (≥30 min, 5–7 days per week) are strongly recommended. However, the majority of patients with CKD ultimately require combination therapy with multiple antihypertensive agents, such as calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and thiazide or thiazide-like diuretics. Recent evidence is increasingly in favor of considering sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, incretin therapies, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), given their established benefits on cardiovascular and kidney-related outcomes, even though their blood pressure lowering effects remains relatively modest. Emerging agents with novel mechanisms of action, such as endothelin receptor antagonists, are also under investigation and may provide additional therapeutic options in the future. This review aims to summarize current guideline recommendations and therapeutic strategies for managing hypertension in CKD, including recent and emerging pharmacologic approaches.

ABSTRACT If physical activity (PA) can satisfy one’s psychological needs, individuals are likely to increase PA engagement. However, inadequate satisfaction may contribute to disengagement or avoidance of PA. This study examined what happens when PA fails to satisfy individually important psychological needs and how this importance-satisfaction gap is associated with PA engagement and overall mental health. Adults (N = 75, Meanage = 39.8, Range: 18–64 years) completed a questionnaire assessing perceived importance of 13 psychological needs (e.g., entertainment, relatedness), whether PA satisfied those psychological needs (subtracted to calculate importance-satisfaction gap scores), and overall mental health symptoms. Waist-worn accelerometers measured PA (e.g., sedentary, moderate) across 14 days. Results indicated the largest gaps between perceived importance of social esteem, morality, and relatedness needs and the extent PA satisfied those needs. Larger importance-satisfaction gaps for entertainment, mindfulness, and aesthetic appreciation needs were associated with greater accelerometer-measured sedentary time and less time spent in light and moderate intensity PA. Larger importance-satisfaction gaps for physical comfort and mindfulness needs were associated with greater depression and somatization symptoms, respectively. By understanding how PA satisfies psychological needs that are important to an individual, interventions may be able to improve long-term engagement in PA behaviours and mental health.

Fatigue negatively affects quality of life. We aimed to compare the prevalence of fatigue in survivors of childhood cancer with the Swiss general population, describe longitudinal patterns of fatigue, and identify characteristics associated with persistent fatigue in survivors. In this cohort study, we used data from the Swiss Childhood Cancer Registry and the Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, including survivors (≥5years since diagnosis; diagnosed between 1976 and 2015 at <20years of age) aged ≥20years at study entry, using data from the baseline and follow-up survey. A representative sample of the general population was used as a comparison group. Fatigue prevalence and fatigue severity were measured using the SF-36 vitality scale, from which we derived longitudinal patterns (no/low fatigue, late onset, improving, persistent). We used multivariable logistic regression to identify clinical, psychosocial and demographic characteristics associated with persistent fatigue. Overall, 1846 survivors participated at baseline (52% male), and 684 survivors also participated at follow-up (median 9years from baseline; 52% male). From the general population, 863 persons participated (42% male). Survivors had similar fatigue prevalence at baseline/follow-up (26%/29%) as the general population (26%). No/Low fatigue was experienced by 64%, late onset by 14%, improving by 7%, and persistent fatigue by 15% of survivors. More late effects, psychological distress, pain, and less time spent on moderate-intensity physical activity were associated with persistent fatigue. This study provides data on longitudinal patterns of fatigue in survivors and identifies factors associated with persistent fatigue that can be used to identify survivors at risk and as a target for interventions aimed at improving fatigue.

Background: Previous studies have experimentally investigated and simulated the effects of dynamic hyperinflation on respiratory system resistance variables in populations with different respiratory diseases. However, the acute effects of exercise on these parameters in healthy young adults are unknown; therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a submaximal exercise test on the resistance of the respiratory system in healthy adult individuals. Methods: This is an observational study conducted with healthy adults. Fifty healthy volunteers were recruited, of both sexes, over the age of 18, with no previous uncontrolled respiratory diseases and normal spirometry, with an average age of 32.2 ± 11.6 years old and an average BMI of 24.3 ± 3.87 kg/m2. The participants underwent an anamnesis, the Impulse Oscillometry Test (IOS) with the variables R5, R20, X5, Fres and AX, followed by the six-minute walk test (6MWT), another IOS measure, immediately after the 6MWT, finishing with a spirometry test. A paired t-test was used for the analyses. Results: Our results showed that the volunteers exhibited a decrease after the 6MWT in the oscillometry parameters R5 (0.35 to 0.32, p = 0.0001), R20 (0.33 to 0.30, p < 0.0001), X5 (−0.13 to −0.10, p < 0.0001), Fres (13.07 to 11.70, p = 0.0042) and AX (0.48 to 034, p = 0.01). In addition, the volunteers walked an average of 623.34 ± 42.6 m in the 6MWT, which represents around 96.6% of what was predicted for this group. Conclusions: Submaximal exercise, as assessed by the 6MWT, acutely reduces respiratory impedance in healthy individuals, which can facilitate moderate-intensity physical activity, preventing sedentary behavior.

BackgroundGiven the altered gait patterns and metabolic demands in obese individuals, population-specific cadence thresholds (steps per minute) are essential for accurate intensity classification and effective exercise prescription. This study examined the relationship between body composition and Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity (MVPA) cadence in obese individuals and establish cadence thresholds for moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA) (3 metabolic equivalents [METs]), MPAyoung (moderate-intensity physical activity for young adults, 4.8 METs), and vigorous physical activity (VPA) (6 METs).MethodsA total of 48 obese young adults participated in this study. The VO2 was collected at rest in seated position for 10 min, followed by an incremental walking exercise at 3.2, 4.0, 4.8, 5.6, and 6.4 km/h with 5 min duration in each stage. Walking cadence and oxygen consumption were recorded and converted to steps per minute and METs.ResultsBody fat significantly related to 3 METs cadence in male (R² = 0.156, p < .05). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) models demonstrated a good discrimination (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.85–0.88 in males, 0.82–0.89 in females). The optimal cadence thresholds for males were 114 steps/min for MPA (positive predictive value [PPV]: 96.97%, negative predictive value [NPV]: 47.30%), 119 steps/min for MPAyoung (PPV: 50.94%, NPV: 95.40%), and 124 steps/min for VPA (PPV: 21.21%, NPV: 99.07%). In females, the optimal cadences were 115 steps/min for MPA (PPV: 98.08%, NPV: 36.96%), 125 steps/min for MPAyoung (PPV: 68.75%, NPV: 93.94%), and 131 steps/min for VPA (PPV: 38.10%, NPV: 98.70%).ConclusionThe effect of body fat percentage on gait adjustment mechanisms during MPA are different between genders in Taiwanese young adults. A practical cadence target range is 119–124 steps/min for males and 125–131 steps/min for females, based on the 4.8- to 6-METs thresholds; cadences within these ranges increase the likelihood of exceeding 3 METs.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT06883253 (Retrospectively registered on March 19, 2025, for a study conducted between November 15, 2017, and November 8, 2018).

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption among residents aged 18–64 in Beijing and to identify associated influencing factors.MethodsA cross-section study was conducted from June 1,2024 to May 31, 2025, including 10,409 residents aged 18–64 in Beijing. Logistic regression was applied to examine demographic, behavioral, and knowledge-related factors associated SSB consumption.ResultsThe overall prevalence of SSB consumption was 38.7%. After adjusting for demographic factors, infrequent checking nutrition labels when purchasing food (ORs ranging from 1.348 to 1.570), infrequent active weight monitoring (ORs ranging from 1.290 to 1.428), dining out/taking out food >1 day/week (ORs ranging from3.495 to6.692), moderate-intensity physical activity less than 300 minutes a week (ORs ranging from 1.237 to 1.326), lack of knowledge about SSB (ORs ranging from 1.240 to 1.361), and awareness of the health risks of SSB (OR=1.198) were the risk factors for SSB consumption.ConclusionsSSB consumption among Beijing adults remains high. Men, urban residents, and younger adults represent priority groups for intervention. Strengthening nutrition education, improving health literacy, and promoting healthier dietary behaviors are essential strategies to reduce SSB consumption and improve population health.

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and mortality worldwide. Modifiable lifestyle factors (including physical activity, diet, sleep, and psychological health) may influence poststroke recovery. However, evidence from observational studies is limited by confounding and reverse causation. We conducted a 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate causal associations between 12 lifestyle-related exposures and stroke recovery outcomes. Genetic instruments (11–26 single nucleotide polymorphisms, all F-statistics > 10) were obtained from the MRC-IEU consortium (sample sizes 64,949–461,460), and outcome data were derived from the GISCOME consortium (6021 ischemic stroke patients, mean age ~65 years, predominantly middle-aged and older adults). Harmonization procedures ensured allele alignment, with palindromic and weak instruments removed. Causal estimates were obtained using inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode methods. Sensitivity analyses included heterogeneity tests, MR-PRESSO, and leave-one-out analyses. Sedentary behavior was associated with poorer recovery (IVW odds ratio [OR] = 0.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–0.03, P < .05), whereas moderate-intensity physical activity showed beneficial associations (IVW OR = 4.91, 95% CI: 2.13–11.34, P = .01). Higher body mass index was negatively associated with recovery (IVW OR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.01–0.09, P < .05). A low-calorie diet demonstrated significant benefit (IVW OR = 18.37, 95% CI: 1.05–3.20 × 10², P < .05). Smoking (IVW OR = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.01–0.09, P < .05), psychological distress (IVW OR = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.01–0.03, P < .05), and insomnia (IVW OR = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.01–0.02, P < .05) were negatively associated with recovery. No significant associations were observed for low- or high-intensity activity, alcohol abstinence, coffee intake, or household income. Sensitivity analyses indicated no heterogeneity or directional pleiotropy (MR-Egger intercept P > .05), and MR-PRESSO confirmed the robustness of causal estimates. This MR study provides genetic evidence that sedentary behavior, high body mass index, smoking, psychological distress, and insomnia may impair stroke recovery, whereas moderate-intensity physical activity and low-calorie diets may improve recovery. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating lifestyle modification into personalized stroke rehabilitation strategies.

BACKGROUND: The high prevalence of stress and sleep disorders among medical students necessitates effective, non-pharmacological interventions. While both yogic breathing and physical activity are beneficial, their comparative efficacy on these specific outcomes remains unclear. AIM: This study aimed to compare the effects of a structured yogic breathing intervention and moderate-intensity physical activity on perceived stress levels and subjective sleep quality in healthy medical students. METHOD: A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 170 participants allocated to either a Yogic Breathing Group (n=85) or a Physical Activity Group (n=85). The intervention lasted five weeks, with sessions conducted five days per week. The primary outcomes, psychological stress and sleep quality, were assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), respectively, at baseline and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and Analysis of co-variance. RESULT: Both groups showed significant within-group improvements in stress (p&lt;0.001). However, between-group analysis revealed that the Yogic Breathing group achieved a significantly greater reduction in DASS-21 scores compared to the Physical Activity group (mean Δ: -14.43 ± 6.21 vs. -3.69 ± 5.12; p&lt;0.001). Conversely, the Physical Activity group demonstrated a significantly greater improvement in PSQI scores than the Yogic Breathing group (mean Δ: -0.96 ± 1.42 vs. -0.40 ± 1.05; p=0.012). CONCLUSION: Yogic breathing was superior for reducing perceived stress, whereas physical activity was more effective for enhancing sleep quality. The results indicate that both approaches complement each other rather than replace one another. Selecting the right approach should depend on the specific needs, helping to provide a more individualized plan for well-being Keywords: Yogic Breathing, Physical Activity, Stress, Sleep Quality, Medical Students, Mental Health

Abstract Background In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) revised their physical activity (PA) guidelines. In contrast to the previous guidelines, moderate-to-vigorous-intensity aerobic PA (MVPA) no longer needs to be accumulated in bouts of at least ten minutes. Since the minimum recommended MVPA amount remained the same, this change was expected to increase MVPA guideline adherence. As such, the revised guidelines may help identify population groups most in need of PA promotion, as they still do not meet the revised MVPA guideline. Methods We utilized 7-day, hip-worn accelerometry data from the baseline examination of the German National Cohort (NAKO). Participants were considered to meet the MVPA guideline if they accumulated the equivalent of ≥ 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic PA per week. Analyses applying (= previous guideline) vs. removing (= revised guideline) the 10-minute bout requirement were performed. Using ANOVA, equality of proportions, and post-hoc tests, we compared the demographic and health characteristics of three groups: 1) Participants meeting the previous guideline; 2) those meeting only the revised guideline; and 3) those meeting neither guideline. Results Of &amp;gt; 60,000 participants (mean age: 50.1 ± 12.6 years, 52.1% women), &amp;gt;95% met the revised MVPA guideline, whereas &amp;lt;40% met the previous guideline. Demographic and health factors varied significantly across groups. For example, participants who met neither MVPA guideline were, on average, 12.1 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.9-13.3) older and had a 5.5 kg/m2 (95% CI: 5.0-5.9) higher body mass index than those meeting the previous guideline. Conclusions In this large, population-based sample, removal of the 10-minute bout requirement for MVPA substantially increased guideline adherence. A small minority (&amp;lt;5%) failed to meet the revised guideline and exhibited distinct demographic and health profiles. These individuals should be prioritized in future PA promotion interventions. Key messages • Using accelerometry data, the removal of the 10-minute bout requirement for MVPA substantially increased guideline adherence in a large population-based sample from Germany. • Only a small fraction of the sample failed to meet the MVPA guidelines without the 10-minute bout requirement, and should be the main target of PA promotion interventions.

Black men are burdened by a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors than non-Hispanic White and Hispanic American men and women. Physical activity may improve other modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, but this relationship is understudied in Black men. This study examined the cross-sectional association of moderate-intensity physical activity with an ideal cardiovascular health (ICH) score containing body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and smoking among 3793 Black men in African American Male Wellness Walks from 2017 to 2023. The 5 metrics were operationalized into continuous (0-10) and categorical ICH scores (0-5, 6-7, 8-10 [poor=0 points, intermediate=1 point, and ideal=2 points]). Linear and ordinal logistic regression models were used to examine the association of physical activity with continuous and categorical ICH scores, respectively. Having 4+ days of physical activity per week was associated with a 0.23-point (P<0.001) increase in ICH scores (0-10 points) and 26% higher odds (P<0.001) of a better ICH score category (0-5, 6-7, 8-10) compared with <4 days. Findings were similar when comparing 150+ minutes of physical activity per week with <150 minutes. Achieving 4+ days or 150+ minutes of physical activity per week was associated with better body mass index and blood pressure categories compared with <4 days or <150 minutes. Ideal moderate-intensity physical activity was associated with improved ICH scores, body mass index, and blood pressure among Black men. Longitudinal research is needed to delineate the role of physical activity in improving cardiovascular health in Black men.

BackgroundThe growing burden of chronic disease multimorbidity in an aging population highlights the need to promote physical activity as a key strategy for disease management. This study aimed to explore the patterns of chronic comorbidities and their association with physical activity in Chinese middle-aged and older adults.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the 2020 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Latent class analysis was applied to identify distinct multimorbidity patterns among middle-aged and older adults, whereas multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. The χ2 test was performed to compare 10 categorical variables between the patterns. A total of 18,697 participants were included.ResultsChronic disease multimorbidities were categorized into three classes: Class 1 (Metabolic Pattern), Class 2 (Multisystem Pattern), and Class 3 (Hypertension-Digestive-Musculoskeletal Pattern). Engagement in moderate-intensity physical activity was associated with a lower odds of Multisystem Pattern (OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.70∼0.91). Engagement in high-intensity physical activity was linked to a lower odds of both Metabolic Pattern (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.68∼0.83) and Multisystem Pattern (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.67∼0.84) diseases but was associated with a higher odds of Hypertension-Digestive-Musculoskeletal Pattern (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.34∼1.59) diseases.ConclusionModerate physical activity reduces the risk of Multisystem Pattern and plays an essential role in preventing and managing metabolic disorders. Although high-intensity physical activity can reduce the risk of metabolic disorders and Multisystem Pattern, excessive physical activity may increase the risk of Hypertension-Digestive-Musculoskeletal Pattern.

The synergistic effects of psychological stress and behavioral factors on health outcomes in obese college students remain poorly understood, particularly within China's unique campus environments. This study aimed to investigate the interrelationships between psychological distress, physical activity, eating behaviors, and sleep patterns among overweight/obese Chinese college students under high stress, with the ultimate goal of identifying key intervention targets to improve both mental and physical health outcomes in this vulnerable population. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 79 overweight/obese Chinese college students (age 19.62 ± 1.75 years; 27 females and 52 males) stratified by stress levels using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire. Comprehensive assessments included psychological measures (PSS, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HAMA], Self-Rating Depression Scale [SDS]), behavioral evaluations (International Physical Activity Questionnaire [IPAQ], Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R21 [TFEQR21]), and health status indicators (36-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF36], Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]). Independent Samples T-tests were used to examine differences in psychological and behavioral aspects between high-stress and low-to-moderate-stress Chinese university students with overweight/obesity. Correlation analyses were conducted to explore associations among these variables and identify key predictors of physical and mental health outcomes. Overweight/obese Chinese college students with high stress showed significantly poorer sleep quality (p = 0.04) and worse general health (p = 0.02) compared with their lower-stress peers. Paradoxically, they reported better mental health scores (p = 0.02) and higher levels of moderate-intensity physical activity (p = 0.02). Strong intercorrelations were observed among depression, anxiety symptoms, and maladaptive eating behaviors, suggesting shared psychopathological pathways in this population. These findings underscore the need for integrated interventions addressing sleep, physical activity, and mental health in high-stress obese students, with particular attention to China's unique campus environment constraints. Future research should explore culturally adapted mind-body interventions like tai chi to break the stress-obesity cycle.

ObjectivePhysical activity and adequate sleep are essential for health and wellbeing. University students face distinct challenges affecting their habits. This study investigates sociodemographic impacts on physical activity and sleep patterns, and examines the association between physical activity and sleep quality in Hungarian university students.MethodsAn online cross-sectional survey was conducted among students (N = 1,340, mean age 20.00 ± 1.59 years; 60.7% female and 39.3% male) from the Budapest University of Economics and Business. The survey was based on sociodemographic data, the Hunarian version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaires. In IPAQ-SF, respondents indicated physical activities lasting at least 10 min during the last seven days. Responses were categorised by WHO and IPAQ guidelines. Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) was calculated. Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0.0.0, with significance set at p < 0.05.ResultsMost participants (85.8%–86.9%) performed below the WHO recommendations for moderate-intensity physical activity. Significant sex differences were noted in physical activity levels (p < 0.001 for vigorous intensity; p < 0.043 for moderate intensity), with men being more active than women. Regarding sleep quality, 57.1% of participants reported good sleep quality (PSQI 0–5), 36.1% had moderate sleep disturbances (PSQI 6–10), and 6.8% experienced poor to severe sleep disturbances (PSQI 11–21). Women reported significantly poorer sleep quality than men did (p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant interaction between energy expenditure on physical activity and sports participation frequency (β = −0.09, p = 0.012), indicating that regular sports participation may buffer against potential negative effects of high overall physical activity on sleep quality. The model explained 3.1% of the variance in sleep quality (R2 = 0.031, p < 0.001).ConclusionThe relationship between physical activity (MET-minutes/week) and sleep quality was moderated by the frequency of sports participation. Given that poor sleep can negatively impact academic performance, health, and well-being, these findings support the promotion of organized sports within university settings. Interventions targeting both physical activity and sleep hygiene may yield synergistic benefits, particularly for students with sedentary lifestyles.

BackgroundSedentary behavior has been identified as a potential risk factor for various malignancies, whereas physical activity serves as a protective factor for certain cancers. The aim of this study was to explore the associations between these two factors and the prevalence of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs).MethodsWe collected cross-sectional data from 26,731 participants in the NHANES from 2007 to 2016. Multivariate logistic regression and subgroup analyses were used to assess the correlations between sedentary behavior, physical activity, and the prevalence of melanoma and NMSCs.ResultsMultivariable logistic regression indicated that sedentary behavior was not significantly associated with melanoma or NMSCs. The type and score of physical activity were not related to melanoma (p > 0.05). However, moderate-intensity physical activity (including both work and recreation activities) and physical activity scores in the 2001–4000 range were positively correlated with NMSCs. Subgroup analysis and interaction tests showed no significant differences in NMSC prevalence between participants with a physical activity score ranging from 2001–4000, suggesting that gender, Poverty Income Ratio (PIR), and education level were not significantly related to this positive correlation (p < 0.05). However, after adjusting for UV radiation as a covariate, the logistic regression results of the NMSCs were no longer significant.ConclusionOur study results indicate that, for individuals aged 20 and above in the US, SB is not associated with the prevalence of melanoma or NMSCs. There is no significant correlation between physical activity and the prevalence of melanoma, but a positive correlation exists with NMSCs’. However, this association was attenuated and lost statistical significance after adjustment for sunburn history as a proxy for UV exposure. We need more prospective and well-designed studies to validate our findings to promote early prevention and lifestyle interventions for high-risk populations of NMSCs.

Objective: to assess and compare lipid profiles in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) before and after treatment with liraglutide or dapagliflozin, as well as to evaluate cardiovascular risk using five stratified scales and analyze intergroup differences. Materials and methods. This prospective, randomized, parallel-group study included 115 patients of both sexes, aged 26–67 years, with MASLD. Participants were divided into three groups: a control group (CG) (36 patients), Group IA (41 patients), and Group IB (38 patients). The CG was advised to follow the Mediterranean diet and engage in moderate-intensity physical activity for 150 minutes per week. Group IA followed the same non-pharmacological recommendations, with the addition of dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily. Group IB also adhered to the same non-pharmacological regimen, along with liraglutide, starting at a dose of 0.6 mg once daily, gradually increasing to 1.8 mg weekly. All groups followed the assigned recommendations for three months. At the baseline visit, lipid profile indicators, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risk was assessed using five stratified risk scales: the Globorisk tool, Framingham Risk Score (10-year cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk estimation), American College of Cardiology (ACC) / American Heart Association (AHA) ASCVD Risk Calculator (10-year risk of heart disease or stroke; algorithm published in 2013), Prospective Cardiovascular Münster (PROCAM) Score, and the World Health Organization (WHO) CVD risk chart. After three months, these indicators were reassessed, and cardiovascular risk was recalculated. Results. Significant improvements in lipid profile indicators were observed in all groups after treatment. Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides decreased significantly, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels increased (p &lt; 0.001 for all). HDL levels showed a more pronounced increase in Group IB compared to the CG (p = 0.02). Cardiovascular risk decreased significantly in all groups (p &lt; 0.05), with consistent reductions observed across all five scales. No statistically significant intergroup differences in cardiovascular risk reduction were found (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusions. Both liraglutide and dapagliflozin significantly improved lipid profiles and reduced cardiovascular risk in patients with MASLD. Total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides decreased significantly in all groups, while HDL levels increased, with a more pronounced effect in the liraglutide group. No significant intergroup differences were observed in total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, or cardiovascular risk reductions, suggesting similar efficacy of both treatments in these aspects. However, the greater increase in HDL levels in the liraglutide group highlights its potential advantage in modifying lipid metabolism.