Physical Activity Levels Research Articles

35 Associations between transport modes and site-specific cancers: A Systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Purpose Transport choices may influence cancer risks through their effects on physical activity levels, sedentary time, and environmental pollution. This review synthesizes existing evidence on the associations of specific transport modes with risks of site-specific cancers. Methods Relevant literature was searched up to 17th February 2023 in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, and results were meta-analyzed for cancer sites where two or more studies were identified. Results 27 eligible studies (11 cohort, 15 case-control, and 1 case-cohort) were identified, which reported the associations with 10 site-specific cancers (breast, endometrial, colorectal, testicular, prostate, ovarian, lung, renal, liver, gallbladder and biliary tract). In meta-analysis, 10 Metabolic Equivalent of Task hour increment in transport-related physical activity per week (∼ 150 minutes of walking or 90 minutes of cycling for commute) was associated with a 7% reduction in risk for endometrial cancer (95% CI: 0.89 – 0.98), 5% reduction for colorectal cancer (95% CI: 0.91 – 0.99) and 2% reduction for breast cancer (95% CI: 0.89 – 0.996). Compared to motorized modes, cycling was associated with a lower risk of overall cancer incidence and mortality. Conclusion Active transport appears to reduce cancer risk, but evidence for cancer sites other than colorectum, breast, and endometrium is currently limited.

Implementation of Physical Activity in the Curricula of Medical Schools and Healthcare Professions Across Europe: The VANGUARD Project Study Protocol.

The 2018 published World Health Organisation (WHO) Europe physical activity factsheet reports, specify agreed targets for physical activity and articulate the need to improve the education of medical doctors and healthcare practitioners in order to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary time in people at risk and/or living with Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs). Given the dearth of relevant initiatives and the continuous need to increase physical activity participation towards better health management of NCDs, the aim of this study is to embed physical activity in the undergraduate curricula of future frontline healthcare professionals (medical doctors and allied health professions) in European countries. The Virtual Advice, Nurturing, Guidance on Universal Action, Research and Development for physical activity and sport engagement (VANGUARD) project consists of a collaborative partnership Consortium between six European Universities, WHO Europe and Ministry representatives that has been developed to implement physical activity in the curricula of medical schools and healthcare professions. The methodology of the VANGUARD project is informed by the WHO implementation guidance and the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. Through a carefully planned implementation process and via using established appropriate implementation evaluation tools, the end result of the VANGUARD project will be the a) implementation of a physical activity module in six different European Universities (five medical schools and one physiotherapy department) and b) development of a toolkit/guide, in order to assist other healthcare systems and European Universities to develop relevant grass-root innovations for addressing the decline in physical activity levels.

S14 Physical activity promotion in healthcare settings: Designing and implementing physical activity referral schemes

Abstract Purpose This symposium will share findings, expertise and experiences from different countries on the design and implementation of physical activity referral schemes (PARS). Description Physical activity promotion by healthcare professionals is a key strategy to increase population physical activity levels. This strategy has been outlined in the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) ‘Global Action Plan on Physical Activity’ (GAPPA) and the ‘Physical activity strategy for the WHO European Region 2016-2025‘. PARS are a promising intervention that allow healthcare professionals to advocate for physical activity and integrate its promotion into routine clinical care. PARS are a heterogeneous group of interventions. Simpler PARS, for example, may consist only of a written description, while more complex PARS might include different healthcare professionals working together systematically, applying several behaviour change techniques in combination with physical activity practice, to connect patients to community resources. There is currently no consensus on the optimal PARS approach and implementation strategies. Implementers need specific knowledge, skills and methods; however, implementation is also influenced by structural and context-related factors in the healthcare system. Accordingly, a successful implementation of PARS needs co-productive capacity building within healthcare systems and proper support for healthcare professionals. The symposium includes four contributions (3 research-oriented and 1 practise-oriented) related to the design and implementation of PARS in different countries. 1) EUPAP Feasibility Study. Practice transfer of a HEPA prescription model to other nine EU countries. From theory to practice. Sebastià Mas-Alòs 2) The association of physical activity referral scheme’ components with physical activity level, scheme uptake and adherence rates: a systematic review, meta-analysis with meta-regression. Wolfgang Geidl 3) The adoption and implementation of a physical activity referral pathway integrated into a major U.S. health system. Mark Stoutenberg 4) Designing a physical activity pathway in healthcare model for Irish Health Services. Sarah O’Brien This symposium will provide guidance on the development of PARS and future successful implementation in other healthcare settings.

215 The Effectiveness of Digital Tools in Physical Activity Interventions for Individuals with Severe Mental Illness: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract Purpose Individuals with a severe mental illness (SMI) have lower physical activity (PA) levels and higher sedentary behaviour (SB) than the general population. As a result, they have an elevated risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease. Participating in PA benefits SMI by improving symptoms, cardiorespiratory fitness, social connectedness, and motivation; helping to reduce bodyweight and SB. Despite the acknowledged benefits of PA, there are numerous barriers to engagement and participation rates remain low. The integration of a digital tool/s may mitigate these barriers and help increase the PA levels of individuals with SMI. This review aims to determine whether digital tool/s are effective at promoting PA in this population. Methods A systematic literature review (SLR) was undertaken in March 2023. A search string was developed around key concepts of SMI, PA, and digital interventions. Seven databases were searched. Additional records obtained via alerts from databases were added between March-September 2023. Returned records were exported to Rayyan. Duplicates were removed and the remaining articles were divided between the four-member team for title/abstract screening. Full-text screening followed, and quality checks were completed by the team via a standard checklist created on Google Forms. Articles selected for review were exported as a list into Microsoft Excel. Results Database searches yielded 1,730 articles, with 24 eligible for inclusion. Eleven studies found PA to increase from participation in a PA intervention that incorporated a digital tool. Walking was the most common form of PA (n = 13) and accelerometery (n = 13) was the most popular digital tool. Twice-weekly PA participation was most frequent. Moderate-vigorous PA was more effective than light PA at promoting PA. Supervised (n = 20) and group (n = 16) interventions were more successful in increasing PA. Community settings (n = 9) was the most common location for interventions. Few studies (n = 5) recorded follow-up data to ascertain if the intervention was effective long-term. Conclusion Overall, this review found digital tools are effective at promoting PA among SMI individuals. Future PA interventions aimed at this population should consider incorporating this technology in their design. However, more follow-up studies are needed to ascertain whether these tools can sustain PA long-term. Funding ADVANCE CRT

The association between ‘weekend warrior’, regular exercise, and cognitive function in elderly individuals with and without depressive symptoms: A cross-sectional analysis from NHANES 2011–2014

BackgroundWhile previous studies have suggested that both ‘Weekend Warrior’ (WW) and Regular Exercise (RE) patterns confer health benefits, the relationship between different types of physical activity (PA) and cognitive function (CF) in elderly individuals with and without depressive symptoms remains unclear. MethodsOur study leveraged the NHANES 2011–2014 dataset, focusing on older adults. We explore the relationship between PA and CF, stratifying by depressive status. Our statistical approach included multivariable regression analysis to identify relationships between PA levels and cognitive outcomes, along with advanced techniques such as smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect analysis to examine potential nonlinear associations and identify optimal PA pattern for cognitive health. ResultsAnalysis revealed a positive correlation between PA time and CF across all participants (β-depressive symptoms = 0.03, 95 % CI: 0.01–0.05; β-non-depressive symptoms = 0.01, 95%CI: 0.00–0.02). When comparing against the inactive, non-depressed participants partaking in WW showed improved cognitive scores (β-WW = 0.22, 95 % CI: 0.05–0.39), similar to those engaging in RE (β-RE = 0.15, 95 % CI: 0.09–0.21). However, among the depressed participants, significant cognitive improvements were observed in the RE (β-RE = 0.15, 95 % CI: 0.04–0.25), with the WW showing less definitive results (β-WW = 0.22, 95 % CI: −0.02-0.47). LimitationThe cross-sectional nature limits causal inferences. ConclusionOur findings affirm the potential role of PA in enhancing CF among older subjects without depressive symptoms. However, only RE was associated with improved CF in those with depressive symptoms. These results are critical for crafting personalized PA guidelines to enhance cognitive health in the aging population.

183 Association between mental health and different patterns of physical activity in adolescents in Luxembourg – HBSC 2022

Abstract Purpose Regular physical activity (PA) is a key protective factor for health in youths. The WHO recommends that adolescents do at least an average of 60 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and incorporate vigorous-intensity aerobic activities (VPA) at least 3 days a week. Nonetheless, lower amounts of PA already carry benefits. This study aims to explore and to examine association between well-being and PA levels in adolescents in Luxembourg. Methods A representative sample of 8117 adolescents (11-to-18-years-old) took part in the 2022 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Luxembourg survey. Based on the WHO-5 Index adolescents were categorised as “depression symptomatology”, “low mood” and normal well-being. In addition, they were categorised as frequency per week (0 to 7 days) of MVPA and VPA practice. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed, controlling by sex and SES. Normal well-being and physical inactivity were the respective refence groups. Results The results showed an association between mental well-being and both MVPA and VPA (p<.001). Compared to their inactive peers and independently of sex and SES, adolescents in Luxembourg who practiced MVPA 4 days per week or VPA 2 times per week had decreased odds to present low mood (ORMVPA=0.63, 95%CI[0.45-0.87] and ORVPA=0.75, 95%CI[0.60-0.92]) and PA even in a small frequency (1 day per week) already decreased the odds to have depressive symptoms (ORMVPA=0.67, 95%CI[0.51-0.89] and ORVPA=0.61, 95%CI[0.49-0.75]). Conclusions These findings highlight the significance of physical activity in fostering well-being, revealing an inverse relationship between the frequency of physical activity and the occurrence of depressive symptomatology and low well-being. In this regard, the advantages of engaging in physical activity are linked not only to physiological benefits but also to social interactions within these practices. In this context, the benefits of regular physical activity extend beyond its direct impact on mental health, encompassing both physiological and social dimensions.

Breast cancer risk and prevention in 2024: An overview from the Breast Cancer UK - Breast Cancer Prevention Conference.

The Breast Cancer UK-Breast Cancer Prevention Conference addressed risk from environmental pollutants and health behaviour-related breast-cancer risk. Epidemiological studies examining individual chemicals and breast cancer risk have produced inconclusive results including endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) Bisphenol A, per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances as well as aluminium. However, laboratory studies have shown that multiple EDCs, can work together to exhibit effects, even when combined at levels that alone are ineffective. The TEXB-α/β assay measures total estrogenic load, and studies have provided evidence of a link between multiple-chemical exposures and breast cancer. However, prospective studies using TEXB-α/β are needed to establish a causative link. There is also a need to assess real-life exposure to environmental-chemical mixtures during pregnancy, and their potential involvement in programming adverse foetal health outcomes in later life. Higher rates of breast cancer have occurred alongside increases in potentially-modifiable risk factors such as obesity. Increasing body-mass index is associated with increased risk of developing postmenopausal breast cancer, but with decreased risk of premenopausal breast cancer. In contrast, lower rates of breast cancer in Asian compared to Western populations have been linked to soya/isoflavone consumption. Risk is decreased by breastfeeding, which is in addition to the decrease in risk observed for each birth and a young first-birth. Risk is lower in those with higher levels of self-reported physical activity. Current evidence suggests breast-cancer survivors should also avoid weight gain, be physically active, and eat a healthy diet for overall health. A broad scientific perspective on breast cancer risk requires focus on both environmental exposure to chemicals and health behaviour-related risk. Research into chemical exposure needs to focus on chemical mixtures and prospective epidemiological studies in order to test the effects on breast cancer risk. Behaviour-related research needs to focus on implementation as well as deeper understanding of the mechanisms of cancer prevention.

Bi-directional associations of core affect and physical activity in adults with higher body weight: An ecological momentary assessment study.

Affect is known to be predictive of and enhanced by higher physical activity (PA) levels in the general population. This secondary analysis aimed to increase the understanding of the bi-directional relationship between PA and core affect (i.e. valence, energetic arousal, and calmness) among adults with higher body weight. Affect and PA were assessed in naturalistic settings via ecological momentary assessment using a mixed sampling scheme from 157 participants (body mass index: 32.99 ± 3.78 kg/m2). Multilevel models revealed that being more physically active in the 15 minutes prior to the assessment predicted an increase in energetic arousal and a decrease in calmness. Subsequently, feeling more energetic and agitated was associated with increased PA within the following 15 minutes. Valence (i.e. pleasure-displeasure) was not associated with PA nor predictive of subsequent PA. Digital PA interventions may target the enhancement of feelings of energy and present psychoeducation about these distinct psychological benefits.

S14-1: EUPAP Feasibility Study. Practice transfer of a HEPA prescription model to other nine EU countries. From theory to practice

Abstract Purpose The Swedish Physical Activity on Prescription (PAP-S) method was to be transferred to other European regions through the EUPAP Project, innovative for implementing a reliable method to other nine countries. Implementation practices are strongly context-dependent; therefore, the practice transfer requires a flexible approach. PAP-S results over 20 years have reported success to a variety of populations. It addresses physically inactive individuals and/or with chronic conditions to improve their health by increasing their physical activity (PA) levels. The PAP-S five core components are: individualised patient-centred counselling, evidence-based PA recommendation, written prescription, community support, and follow-up. The goal was to know the context regarding PA prescription and ease the transfer from the Swedish context, specifically to: a) setting relevant PAP-S indicators for planning and monitoring, b) creating guidelines for data collection, c) providing an overview of the situation in each region, and d) assessing for readiness to implement the model. Project description Modified Hybrid e-Delphi process by representative from 10 countries. First, commitment from organisations to assume costs for the implementation. Second, description of variables and procedures for data collection. Data comprised two dimensions (ie, macro level (early diagnosis) and micro level (preparedness for implementation)). Third, data collection. Fourth, data analysis and discussion. Thirty-five experts participated in the EUPAP Feasibility Study. Guidelines for data collection includes indicators on macro level: a) EUPAP-relevant policy documents, b) profiles of prescribers and allied professionals, c) programmes, materials and training on HEPA, d) regulations, e) budget; and micro level: a) stakeholders, b) settings, c) agents, d) end-users. Country-specific results were collected, compared and discussed in relation to the core components of PAP-S (findings are accessible on www.eupap.org). Project partners disseminated the results among region-specific stakeholders. Conclusions Data showed regions with solid background to launch the EUPAP implementation (Flanders, Catalonia, Portugal) and others with less existing materials or weak network (Malta, Romania, Germany). Policy-makers, local health services and communities may better set short- mid- and long-term goals for the PAP-S transfer. Further design on practices and policies may use the Feasibility Study Guidelines for setting specific procedures. Funding Co-funded by the European Union’s Health Programme (2014-2020).

S06-3: We Walk. Developing and pilot testing a dyadic intervention to promote outdoor walking in people after stroke: benefits, challenges and solutions

Abstract Purpose After stroke, physical activity (PA) levels are low, risking secondary stroke, cardiovascular disease, falls and poor mobility. Regular PA reduces these risks. Walking is a preferred PA option for stroke survivors, and social support influences uptake and maintenance of behaviours. We therefore developed WeWalk, a person-centred, dyadic peer-support behavioural intervention supported by walking buddies, to promote regular walking after stroke. This study evaluated participants’ experiences of WeWalk to refine it ready for effectiveness testing and implementation. Methods Intervention: WeWalk involved facilitated face-to-face and telephone sessions with a researcher with behaviour change training, supported by intervention handbooks and diaries. Dyads agreed walking goals and plans, monitored progress, and developed strategies for maintaining walking. Evaluation Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and facilitator fieldnotes during intervention delivery, and were analysed using thematic analysis, guided by a theoretical framework of acceptability. Results We recruited 21 dyads comprising community-dwelling PWS and their walking buddies. Eighteen dyads completed exit interviews, one dyad was lost to follow-up and two withdrew with ill-health. We identified three themes: acceptability evolves with experience, mutuality, and person-centredness with personally relevant tailoring. As dyads recognised how WeWalk components supported walking, perceptions of acceptability grew. Effort receded as goals and enjoyment of walking together were realised. The dyadic structure provided accountability, and participants’ confidence developed as they experienced physical and psychological benefits of walking. WeWalk required careful facilitation. It worked best when dyads exhibited relational connectivity and mutuality in setting and achieving goals however in a few dyads agreeing and enacting mutual goals was more challenging. Tailoring intervention components to individual circumstances and values supported dyads in achieving meaningful goals. Conclusions WeWalk is feasible and acceptable, illustrating the potential of dyadic interventions after stroke. However, its complexity requires considered implementation strategies. Data highlight the need for careful matching of dyads, facilitation of dyadic working by practitioners who can support development of dyadic relationships; and community structures linked to healthcare pathways that support implementation. We have worked with charities health services organisations to plan and develop these implementation strategies and report the challenges and potential solutions to delivering this complex intervention.

Are physical activity and everyday mobility independently associated with quality of life at older age?

BackgroundPhysical activity and everyday mobility are concepts that overlap but tend to be located in different disciplinary fields. We used the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) to: identify whether physical activity and everyday mobility are separate constructs at younger (60–69) and/or older (>=70) age bands, and for men and women; derive measures of the two constructs from variables in the ELSA; and assess whether they are independently associated with quality of life (QoL). MethodsWe derived composite measures for physical activity and everyday mobility from ELSA variables. ‘Physical Activity’ combined items recording directly-measured activity for movement (walk-speed) and self-report measures of physical mobility difficulties and amount of vigorous, moderate and mild physical activity undertaken. ‘Everyday Mobility’ combined self-report responses about activities likely to involve leaving the house. QoL was measured using the ‘CASP-19′ scale. Using Wave 9 of ELSA (data collection in 2018–2020), we used a factor analysis to explore the constructs, and a regression analysis to examine associations with QoL. ResultsThe factor analysis confirmed that these were discrete constructs, which explained between them 36% of the variance. This was robust across age bands, and in factor analyses for men and women separately. The regression analysis identified that lower physical activity and everyday mobility are independently associated with lower QoL, when controlling for a range of contextual variables including age. ConclusionsFindings suggest that a social model of QoL at older age should focus on the broader mobility determinants of QoL as well as individual levels of physical activity.

Self-medication among general population in the European Union: prevalence and associated factors

Self-medication (SM) forms an important part of public health strategy. Nonetheless, little research has been performed to understand the current state of self-medication in the European Union (EU). Utilizing data from the third wave of the European Health Interview Surveys, this study finds an estimated SM prevalence of 34.3% in the EU (95%CI = 34.1-34.5%; n = 255,758). SM prevalence, as well as SM prevalence inequality between men and women, varies substantially between EU member countries. Via multivariable analysis, we also identify a number of variables associated with SM, most notably the substantial impact of health systems on SM behavior (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 4.00; 95% Confidence Interval [95%CI] = 3.81–4.21). Several demographics are also associated with greater SM prevalence, including those aged 25–44 (versus ages 75+: AOR = 1.21; 95%CI = 1.12–1.31), women (AOR = 1.74; 95%CI = 1.68–1.81), immigrants born in other EU states (AOR = 1.16; 95%CI = 1.04–1.30), those with higher education (AOR = 1.83; 95%CI = 1.60–2.09), and urban dwellers (AOR = 1.14; 95%CI = 1.04–1.30). Additionally, long-standing health problems (AOR = 1.39; 95%CI = 1.33–1.45), visits to doctors (both general practitioners and specialists) (AOR = 1.21, 95%CIs = 1.15–1.26, 1.17–1.26), and unmet needs for health care due to waiting lists (AOR = 1.38; 95%CI = 1.23–1.55) or inability to afford medical examinations/treatment (AOR = 1.27; 95%CI = 1.12–1.42) serve as conditioners for SM. We also find that smoking (AOR = 1.05; 95%CI = 1.01–1.10), vaping (AOR = 1.19; 95%CI = 1.06–1.32), drinking alcohol (AOR = 1.23; 95%CI = 1.19–1.28), and higher levels of physical activity (AOR = 1.27; 95%CI = 1.22–1.32) are factors associated with SM. Analysis of these variables reveals that though women self-medicate more than men, the patterns that govern their consumption are similar.

240 Does fall prevention also have to hinder physical activity?

Abstract Purpose Physical activity is effective for preventing falls and improves physical and mental health, increase function and quality of life. Regarding people at high risk of falling, such as residents at nursing homes, global guidelines recommend individually adapted exercise programs to prevent falls. These guidelines are not followed. We aimed to map out physical activity among people living at a nursing home. To our knowledge, this is the first study measuring physical activity 24 hours per day among residents at a nursing home. Method In this pilot study, persons who lived at one nursing home and could walk without a walking aid wore an Inertial Measurement Unit for 24 hours per day for 3 months. Main outcome measure was steps per day. For each participant, the mean steps per day during the period was calculated and for the total group, the median value of the mean steps per day was calculated. Results The participants (n = 5), three women and 2 men, 72 to 98 years old, walked in a median of 65 steps per day (10-356). Conclusion In Sweden, instead of following guidelines, technical solutions that monitor if a person tries to move are introduced at nursing homes, often in the form of web cameras. This means that falls are prevented by hindering physical activity and making sure the residents do not move at all. Our study shows that people living in nursing homes can have a very low level of physical activity. We call on all responsible organizations to initiate activities and efforts that enable rather than hinder physical activity. For example, use technology that promotes physical activity, build gyms located in nursing homes, use Virtual Reality to make the bike ride seem to take place outside in a beautiful landscape, and employ physiotherapists who can do balance-training exercises on an everyday basis.

154 Avoidance of Physical Activity Among Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Observational Study

Abstract Purpose While physical activity is recognized as an essential component in COPD treatment, patients with COPD often exhibit lower levels of physical activity compared with their lung-healthy peers. The primary objective of our study was to describe the proportion of patients with COPD who report avoidance behavior related to physical activity. Methods A questionnaire-based, observational study was conducted among patients with COPD, scheduled to attend a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Participants completed the COPD Anxiety Questionnaire (CAF-R) and functional tests were conducted prior to participation of the rehabilitation program. Results We included 48 participants (24 males, mean: age 70±7.8 years, body mass index 25±5.0, MRC dyspnoea scale 2.5±0.9, One-Minute-Sit-To-Stand-Test 19 ±6.0 repetitions). Findings revealed that 60% (95% CI [46%-0,74%]) reported avoidance of physical exertion, 44% (95% CI [24%-52%]) avoid activities causing breathlessness, and 35% (95% CI [22%-48%]) try avoid any form of physical activity. Conclusions Our findings show that a large proportion of patients with COPD exhibit avoidance behavior concerning physical activity. While the underlying reasons are likely multifaceted, apprehension towards breathlessness emerges as a potential contributing factor. The results underscore the importance of investigating avoidance behavior in people with COPD to better understand how to promote physical activity within this population. Future interventions designed to increase physical activity in patients with COPD should include identification of the extent of avoidance behavior and implementation of strategies to manage the behavior, such as exposing individuals to physical activity within a secure environment. Support/funding This study received financial support from the Karen Elise Jensen Foundation and the Eva Merethe Falck Crones Foundation.

Long-Term Evaluation of Lipid Profile Changes in Olympic Athletes.

Dyslipidemia is a major contributor to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Despite high level of physical activity, athletes are not immune from dyslipidemia, but longitudinal data on the variation of lipids are currently lacking. We sought to assess lipid profile changes over time in Olympic athletes practicing different sports disciplines (power, skills, endurance, and mixed). We enrolled 957 consecutive athletes evaluated from London 2012 to Beijing 2022 Olympic Games. Dyslipidemia was defined as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ≥115mg/dl, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) <40mg/dl for males, or HDL <50mg/dl for females. Hypertriglyceridemia was defined as triglycerides >150mg/dl. At the follow-up, a variation of ±40mg/dl for LDL, ±6mg/dl for HDL, and ±50mg/dl for triglycerides was considered relevant. Athletes with follow-up <10months or taking lower lipid agents were excluded. Follow-up was completed in 717 athletes (74.9%), with a mean duration of 55.6months. Mean age was 27.2 ± 4.8years old, 54.6% were male (n = 392). Overall, 19.8% (n = 142) athletes were dyslipidemic at both blood tests, being older, practicing nonendurance sports, and predominantly male. In 69.3% (n = 129) of those with elevated LDL at t0, altered values were confirmed at follow-up, while the same occurred in 36.5% (n = 15) with hypo-HDL and 5.3% (n = 1) in those with elevated triglycerides. Weight and fat mass percentage modifications did not affect lipid profile variation. LDL hypercholesterolemia tends to persist over time especially among male, older, and nonendurance athletes. LDL hypercholesterolemia detection in athletes should prompt early preventive intervention to reduce the risk of future development of atherosclerotic disease.

Choosing Your Sports Partners: Assessing Selection Preferences Through Observational and Experimental Studies

ABSTRACT Previous research has demonstrated the positive impact of doing sports together on maintaining physical activity levels. Yet, there remains a gap in understanding the selection processes leading to sports partnerships. We address this question using a two-study design. Study 1 examines longitudinal ego-network data; we analyze data of 1,222 sports partnerships among 409 Dutch university students. We find that emotional closeness, rather than skill similarity, is a key determinant of sports partnership continuation over time. We do not find that the sports setting in which sports partnerships are embedded (i.e. sports clubs, informal groups, commercial gyms, unorganized settings) affect the stability of sports partnerships. Study 2 employs a discrete choice experiment, in which individuals are tasked to choose a sports partner out of choice-sets consisting of three sports partners who vary in the types of motivations and resources they offer (i.e. social comparison, knowledge, companionship, encouragement). People express a strong preference for sports partners who emphasize social aspects of sports, but as individuals become more active, sports partners who emphasize social comparison and who are knowledgeable about sports gain attractiveness. We discuss the implications of these findings for tailored strategies leveraging social networks to promote sports participation.

A Comprehensive Review of Graft Choices and Surgical Techniques in Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: An Outcome Analysis.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most prevalent knee injuries, particularly in athletes engaged in high-impact sports. ACL reconstruction is a widely performed surgical procedure to restore knee stability, prevent further knee damage, and enable patients to return to their previous physical activity levels. However, the success of ACL reconstruction is influenced by various factors, including the choice of graft and the surgical technique employed. This comprehensive review explores the outcomes of different graft options - autografts, allografts, and synthetic grafts - and various surgical techniques such as single-bundle versus double-bundle reconstruction and anatomic versus non-anatomic tunnel placement. The review analyzes the short- and long-term outcomes, including functional recovery, return to sports, complication rates, and the impact of patient-specific factors such as age, activity level, and comorbidities. Additionally, the review discusses the role of rehabilitation protocols in optimizing surgical outcomes. By synthesizing current evidence, this review aims to provide clinicians with insights into the most effective graft choices and surgical techniques for primary ACL reconstruction, ultimately guiding the optimization of patient outcomes and highlighting areas for future research.

43 Involvement in active transport is related to organizational factors and physical environment infrastructure

Abstract Purpose Active transport (AT) is considered the most sustainable and accessible mode for travel purposes. AT (walking and cycling) contributes to health-enhancing physical activity as it is a convenient and accessible way to increase physical activity levels. Convenient infrastructure promotion and support are important factors in shift from motor transport towards active travel. The purpose of this study was to determine how organizational factors and neighbourhood physical environment differ between using and not using AT among the Lithuanian young adult population. Methods This cross-sectional study included 250 Lithuanian young adults aged 18-39 years, with a mean age of 20.38 years. Of these, 80% were women. AT was measured using the Stages of Change Model-based Questionnaire. Infrastructure was measured by ALPHA Questionnaire–REVISED (Spittals et al., 2010). Organization-related items were developed by study researchers. Results Young Lithuanian people preferred cars and/or public transport (62.4%) instead of active transportation (AT) (27.6%) when choosing mobility. The results support a strong link between AT and organizational aspects. AT is more often chosen by people who belong to an organization where environmentally friendly behaviour is encouraged (waste sorting, using AT (p = 0.018); conditions are created to safely store a bicycle or scooter (p = 0.024); that talks about sustainable development, environmentally friendly behaviour, sustainability, etc. (p = 0.034). Quality of the neighbourhood physical environment, such as maintained bicycle paths (p = 0.011), maintained sidewalks (p = 0.049), maintained parks, and other open spaces (p = 0.050) significantly associated with the choice of AT. However, the choice of active transport was not significantly related to the infrastructure of pedestrian zones or paths, infrastructure of special lanes, routes for bicycles, or separation of bicycle paths from car traffic. Conclusions Young people’s involvement in AT is influenced by the attitude of the organization in which they work or study towards environmentally friendly behaviour, AT, and sustainable development. The quality of the neighbourhood physical environment also determines the involvement of young people in AT.

44 Predictors of physical activity level among community-dwelling older adults in a suburban Nigerian population

44 Predictors of physical activity level among community-dwelling older adults in a suburban Nigerian population

51 She Moves - A comparative study examining the perception of the built environment between men and women

Abstract Sustainable urban transport and active travel are part of policy and practice worldwide, with a strong focus on strengthening the relationship between transport and health (US PHA, 2021; NICE, 2012; EU Commission, 2013; ISPAH, 2020). The gap we see in physical activity with males globally being more active than their female counterparts is also evident in transport, with a male bias in planning and design and gender a determinant in modal choice (UN, 2017; ITF, 2018; TII, 2019). This research aims to explore the perceptions of the built environment from a male and female perspective and how this implicates physical activity levels. Walking and cycling for active transport have substantial health benefits, however women are less inclined to use AT than men (Mueller et al, 2015; Garrad et al, 2008; Heesch &amp; Sahlqvist, 2013). This is due to the gendered nature of cites being designed for the use of men and not women (Bassam, 2023). This study utilised a quantitative approach. A survey was made available nationally (Ireland) on Microsoft Forms, it was available to all genders and both rural and urban individuals. The aim of this survey is gather an in depth understanding of women’s perceptions of the built environment and it’s correlation to activity levels, active travel behaviour and health, and how this differs to men. The Healthy Ireland protocol has been used to gather baseline data, general health and demographic information. The findings have been analysed using SPSS. The results of this study will be complete before August 2024. The survey is currently available to be completed online. Results are to be published in an academic journal. The aim of this study is to highlight the difference in perceptions of an individuals built environment dependent on gender. The results from this study will inform policy surrounding the design of cities and towns with infrastructure that is accessible and u​tilized by all. It will inform how we redesign cities for the use of all and have a gender-neutral perspective on city design, active travel and transport. Support/Funding Source This research has been funded by Technological University Dublin.