Self-reported Physical Activity Research Articles

Addressing Nurse Burnout: The Relationship Between Burnout and Physical Activity.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses have faced innumerable challenges, which have contributed to staggering increases in burnout rates. In the health care arena, burnout has been associated with the onset or exacerbation of physical illness, neglect of self-care, fatigue, decreased patient satisfaction, higher medication error rates, lack of nurse engagement, and increased nurse turnover. This cross-sectional study sought to determine whether a correlation exists between self-reported physical activity and nurses' perception of burnout in a sample of hospital RNs. The secondary aim was to determine whether a correlation exists between the level of perceived burnout and the number of medication errors or near misses. Participants were asked to provide demographic information, complete the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) and the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ), and self-report the number of medication errors or near misses they were involved in during the previous 12 months. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17 software. A total of 216 participants returned usable surveys. Regarding the relationship between burnout and physical activity levels, data analysis was performed for the 210 participants who completed both the CBI and the GLTEQ. Compared with the least physically active nurses, the most active nurses had significantly lower CBI scores, with 68.5% of those reporting low or no burnout also scoring 24 or more on the GLTEQ. The least physically active nurses had significantly higher CBI scores, with 47.6% of those reporting high burnout also scoring 13 or less on the GLTEQ. Moreover, 90% of the nurses with high burnout levels had directly cared for COVID-19 patients at some point between 2020 and 2022. Medical-surgical nurses experienced significantly higher levels of burnout compared with nurses working in other service areas. No significant relationship was found between the number of medication errors or near misses and burnout levels. This study found that the most physically active nurses reported lower levels of burnout, while the highest levels of burnout were found in the least active nurses. Although COVID-19 infection rates have eased, many nurses, particularly those who have cared for COVID-19 patients and those who work in medical-surgical environments, continue to experience burnout. Targeted programs to reduce work-related burnout, as well as organizational sponsorship of and unit-level support for such programs, are urgently needed. This study's findings suggest that promotion of physical activity may be an essential component to alleviating burnout.

A prospective 12-month structured weight loss intervention in women with severe obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome: Impact of weight loss on eating behaviors.

The knowledge regarding eating behavior and disorders in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and severe obesity is limited. This study aimed to assess eating behavior and lifestyle factors in women with severe obesity (BMI ≥35 kg/m2), with and without PCOS, and the effect of weight loss on these behaviors. A prospective clinical trial with participants screened for PCOS using National Institutes of Health criteria. Participants completed the Food Frequency Questionnaire, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire, and Questionnaire of Eating and Weight Patterns-revised, and were evaluated regarding binge eating disorder using DSM-5 criteria before and after a 12-month weight loss intervention. gov: NCT01319162. 246 women were included (PCOS n = 63, age 33.0 ± 8.4, BMI 39.9 ± 4.7; non-PCOS n = 183, age 37.7 ± 8.7, BMI 39.6 ± 4.3). Women with PCOS showed elevated baseline scores in cognitive restraint eating (50.0 [33.3-63.2]) compared to women without PCOS (38.9 [27.8-55.6]; p = 0.012). No differences were observed between groups in emotional and uncontrolled eating. In both groups, cognitive restraint eating was negatively correlated with energy intake (PCOS: r = -0.315, p < 0.05; non-PCOS: r = -0.214, p < 0.001), while uncontrolled eating displayed a positive correlation with energy intake (PCOS: r = 0.263, p = 0.05; non-PCOS: r = 0.402, p < 0.001). A positive correlation was found between emotional eating and energy intake only in women without PCOS (r = 0.400, p < 0.001). Baseline self-reported energy intake and physical activity did not differ between groups. At 12-month follow-up, women with PCOS reported reduced fat intake. Women without PCOS reported reduced energy intake, carbohydrates and sugar, increased protein, reduced scores for emotional and uncontrolled eating, and heightened scores for cognitive restraint eating. Comparing changes from baseline to follow-up, differences were found between groups in cognitive restraint, intake of fat, carbohydrates, and sugar. The mean weight loss was 12-14 kg, with no between-group difference (p = 0.616). Women with severe obesity and PCOS showed elevated cognitive restraint eating behaviors compared to women without PCOS. Although significant weight loss was seen in both groups, alterations in eating behavior more favorable for weight loss were only seen in women without PCOS.

Cross-sectional associations between accelerometer-measured physical activity and hip bone mineral density. The Tromsø study 2015–2016

Cross-sectional associations between accelerometer-measured physical activity and hip bone mineral density. The Tromsø study 2015–2016

Abstract PO4-11-09: Feasibility of physical activity behaviour change for women living with metastatic breast cancer, a randomised controlled trial

Abstract Background Physical activity benefits women living with metastatic breast cancer by improving outcomes such as physical function, health-related quality of life and fatigue. These findings have been reported within well-resourced trials that involve exercise equipment and supervision. Home or community-based settings, however, may be preferable and more accessible. This trial evaluated the feasibility of a remotely delivered behaviour change intervention for increasing physical activity for women living with metastatic breast cancer, and evaluated the program’s efficacy. Methods A 12-week randomised controlled trial was conducted in which 20 women living with metastatic breast cancer were recruited from a metropolitan outpatient cancer clinic. Inclusion criteria were over 18 years old, English speaking, ambulatory, and not regularly active at time of recruitment. Participants were randomised 1:1 to an intervention or attention control group. Both groups received a recommendation for 150 minutes of physical activity, a wrist-worn activity monitor, a physical activity diary, and nine phone or video call sessions (six weekly, three fortnightly). The intervention group received individualised behaviour change advice on topics such as physical activity benefits, motivation, barriers and social support; the attention control group received a recurring symptom questionnaire and no behavioural advice. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, dropout and session adherence rates, and acceptability of methods was evaluated with an interview at trial completion. Baseline and 12-week outcomes included: i) physical activity minutes measured with a 5-day Actigraph wear, ii) 6-minute walk distance, iii) 30-second sit-to-stands, iv) questionnaires for self-reported physical activity, health-related quality of life, fatigue, behavioural factors (stage of change, self-efficacy, decisional balance, processes of change, social support), and patient-specific function. Questionnaires were measured again at 18 weeks. Results Recruitment, baseline measures and within-trial sessions are completed; 12 and 18-week measures will conclude late August. Thirty-two women were approached to enrol the target sample of 20, with exclusion reasons being disinterest (n=5), health problems (n=4), loss of contact (n=2) and already physically active (n=1). Median age was 62 years (IQR: 60-69), and median time since metastatic diagnosis was 4 years (IQR: 1-5). Twelve women had bone metastases, and ten had a musculoskeletal comorbidity. Session delivery through video or phone calls were equally preferred (n=10 each). Participants completed 84% of the sessions, with reasons for missed sessions consisting of forgetting (55%), feeling unwell (24%), IT problems (7%), holiday (7%), and work commitments (7%). Median session duration for the intervention group was 23 minutes (IQR: 20-28), and control group was 17 minutes (IQR: 14-21). The preferred type of physical activity was predominantly walking, and no adverse events were reported. Four women dropped out after loss of contact. Compared to age-matched normative values, baseline outcomes varied: actigraphy-measured physical activity was low (median: 68 minutes/day, IQR: 45-88), self-reported physical activity was high (median: 289 MET-minutes/day, IQR: 52-728), 6-minute walk distance was equal (median: 529m, IQR: 416-579), 30-second sit-to-stands were low (median: 11, IQR: 8-14), health-related quality of life was high (median: 80, IQR: 70-100), and fatigue was equal (median: 30, IQR 20-40). Conclusions Women living with metastatic breast cancer were generally receptive of the trial, and recruitment, dropout and session adherence rates were positive. The women who dropped out were more physically active, physically functional and/or rated higher on the questionnaires, indicating that the trial may be more suited to those with limited physical activity experience. Citation Format: Mark Liu, Sharon Kilbreath, Elizabeth Dylke, Jasmine Yee, Jane Beith. Feasibility of physical activity behaviour change for women living with metastatic breast cancer, a randomised controlled trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-11-09.

Short communication: Lifetime musical activity and resting-state functional connectivity in cognitive networks.

Participation in multimodal leisure activities, such as playing a musical instrument, may be protective against brain aging and dementia in older adults (OA). Potential neuroprotective correlates underlying musical activity remain unclear. This cross-sectional study investigated the association between lifetime musical activity and resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) in three higher-order brain networks: the Default Mode, Fronto-Parietal, and Salience networks. We assessed 130 cognitively unimpaired participants (≥ 60 years) from the baseline cohort of the DZNE-Longitudinal Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Study (DELCODE) study. Lifetime musical activity was operationalized by the self-reported participation in musical instrument playing across early, middle, and late life stages using the Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire (LEQ). Participants who reported musical activity during all life stages (n = 65) were compared to controls who were matched on demographic and reserve characteristics (including education, intelligence, socioeconomic status, self-reported physical activity, age, and sex) and never played a musical instrument (n = 65) in local (seed-to-voxel) and global (within-network and between-network) RSFC patterns using pre-specified network seeds. Older participants with lifetime musical activity showed significantly higher local RSFC between the medial prefrontal cortex (Default Mode Network seed) and temporal as well as frontal regions, namely the right temporal pole and the right precentral gyrus extending into the superior frontal gyrus, compared to matched controls. There were no significant group differences in global RSFC within or between the three networks. We show that playing a musical instrument during life relates to higher RSFC of the medial prefrontal cortex with distant brain regions involved in higher-order cognitive and motor processes. Preserved or enhanced functional connectivity could potentially contribute to better brain health and resilience in OA with a history in musical activity. German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00007966, 04/05/2015).

Abstract PO4-12-09: National Physical Activity Guidelines and It’s Association with Fatigue in Patients with Breast Cancer Pre- and Post-Chemotherapy in a Prospective, Nationwide Study

Abstract Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most pervasive side effects of cancer and its treatment, reported by nearly 90% of patients. Physical activity (PA) during treatment may prevent or lessen CRF burden. Current aerobic PA guidelines for cancer patients recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate PA or 75 minutes of vigorous PA or some equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous PA (MVPA). Many patients have difficulty meeting these guidelines during treatment, however, meeting these guidelines may not be necessary to alleviate CRF. This study evaluated patterns of PA below the recommended guidelines and their association with CRF in cancer patients during treatment. Methods: In a nationwide, prospective cohort study of patients with stage I-IIIC breast cancer (n=580) we assessed the relationship between self-reported PA (Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study PA) and CRF (Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory, MFSI) pre- and post-chemotherapy. Spearman correlations were utilized to evaluate the association of all PA (MET hr/wk) and MVPA (MET hr/wk) with overall CRF (total MFSI) and 5 CRF subdimensions (general, physical, emotional, mental CRF and vigor) at pre- and post-chemotherapy. ANCOVA estimated mean CRF score according to whether patients weekly MVPA (1) met 100% of the PA guidelines, (2) met 50%-99% of the PA guidelines (75-149 minutes), or (3) did not meet 50% of the PA guidelines (&amp;lt; 75 minutes). Results: Pre-chemotherapy, only 34% of participants met the PA guidelines, post-chemotherapy, only 21% of patients met the PA guidelines. At both time points, we observed small to moderate inverse correlations of MVPA with overall CRF and several subdimensions of CRF (Table 1; r = -0.11, -0.19). Pre-chemotherapy, those who did not meet 50% of the PA guidelines report significantly higher total CRF compared to those who met the PA guidelines (12.5 ± 1.2 vs 5.3 ± 1.5; p&amp;lt; 0.001). However, those who met only 50%-99% of the PA guidelines, had comparable total CRF to those who fully met the PA guidelines (7.2 ± 2.2; p=0.474). A similar pattern was observed for the subdimensions general, mental, and physical CRF. Those who met 50% of the guidelines also had significantly lower vigor compared to those who met the guidelines (11.9 ± 0.3 vs 13.8 ± 0.4; p&amp;lt; 0.001), while those who met 50%-99% of the guidelines had comparable vigor to those who fully met guidelines (13.1 ± 0.6; p=0.278). Post-chemotherapy CRF was higher among all patient’s, again there was no significant difference in total, general, physical CRF and vigor between those who met the PA guidelines and those who met 50%-99% of the PA guidelines. Conclusions: All PA was consistently inversely associated with CRF pre- and post-chemotherapy for patients with breast cancer. Current minimum aerobic PA guidelines for patients with cancer are difficult to achieve during treatment. Lower doses of MVPA than the current PA guidelines suggest may provide equal benefit and represent a more achievable goal for patients with cancer. Table 1: Spearman correlations of CRF and physical activity in patients with breast cancer pre- and post-chemotherapy. Table 2: ANCOVA; Mean CRF score according to the PA guidelines. Citation Format: Lindsey Mattick, Hongying Sun, Karen Mustian, Luke Peppone, AnnaLynn Williams, Po-Ju Lin, Evelyn Arana, Jeremy McGuire, Amarinthia Curtis, Alison Conlin, Lora Weiselberg, Michelle Janelsins. National Physical Activity Guidelines and It’s Association with Fatigue in Patients with Breast Cancer Pre- and Post-Chemotherapy in a Prospective, Nationwide Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-12-09.

Protein Intake and Physical Activity Levels as Determinants of Sarcopenia Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Community screening for sarcopenia is complex, with barriers including access to specialized equipment and trained staff to conduct body composition, strength and function assessment. In the current study, self-reported dietary protein intake and physical activity (PA) in adults ≥65 years was assessed relative to sarcopenia risk, as determined by body composition, strength and physical function assessments, consistent with the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) definition. Of those screened (n = 632), 92 participants (77% female) were assessed as being at high risk of developing sarcopenia on the basis of dietary protein intake ≤1 g∙kg-1∙day-1 [0.9 (0.7-0.9) g∙kg-1∙day-1] and moderate intensity physical activity <150 min.week-1. A further 31 participants (65% female) were defined as being at low risk, with both protein intake [1.2 (1.1-1.5) g∙kg-1∙day-1] and PA greater than the cut-off values. High-risk participants had reduced % lean mass [53.5 (7.8)% versus 54.8 (6.1)%, p < 0.001] and impaired strength and physical function. Notably, high-risk females exhibited greater deficits in lean mass and strength, with minimal differences between groups for males. In community-dwelling older adults, self-reported low protein intake and low weekly PA is associated with heightened risk for sarcopenia, particularly in older women. Future research should determine whether early intervention in older adults with low protein intake and PA attenuates functional decline.

Physical activity across midlife and health-related quality of life in Australian women: A target trial emulation using a longitudinal cohort.

There is little long-term causal evidence on the effect of physical activity on health-related quality of life. This study aimed to examine the associations between longitudinal patterns of physical activity over 15 years and health-related quality of life in both the physical and mental health domains, in a cohort of middle-aged Australian women. We used data collected at 3-year intervals (1998 to 2019) from 11,336 participants in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) (1946 to 1951 birth cohort). Primary outcomes were the physical (PCS) and mental health component summary (MCS) scores (range from 0 to 100; higher scores indicate higher perceived physical/mental health) from the SF-36 in 2019 (when women aged 68 to 73 years). Using target trial emulation to imitate a randomized controlled trial (RCT), we tested 2 interventions: (1) meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) physical activity guidelines consistently throughout the 15-year "exposure period" (2001 to 2016; when women aged 50-55 to 65-70 years; physical activity assessed every 3 years); and (2) not meeting the guidelines at the beginning of the exposure period but starting to first meet the guidelines at age 55, 60, or 65; against the control of not meeting the guidelines throughout the exposure period. Analysis controlled for confounding using marginal structural models which were adjusted for sociodemographic and health variables and conditions. Consistent adherence to guidelines during the exposure period (PCS: 46.93 [99.5% confidence interval [CI]: 46.32, 47.54]) and first starting to meet the guidelines at age 55 (PCS: 46.96 [99.5% CI: 45.53, 48.40]) were associated with three-point higher PCS (mean score difference: 3.0 [99.5% CI: 1.8, 4.1] and 3.0 [99.5% CI:1.2, 4.8]) than consistent non-adherence (PCS: 43.90 [99.5% CI: 42.79, 45.01]). We found a similar pattern for most SF-36 subscales but no significant effects of the interventions on MCS. The main limitations of the study were that it may not account for all underlying health conditions and/or other unmeasured or insufficiently measured confounders, the use of self-reported physical activity and that findings may not be generalizable to all mid-age women. Results from the emulated RCT suggest women should be active throughout mid-age, ideally increasing activity levels to meet the guidelines by age 55, to gain the most benefits for physical health in later life.

Physical activity volume, frequency, and intensity: Associations with hypertension and obesity over 21 years in Australian women

BackgroundOptimal patterns of accrual of recommended levels of physical activity (PA) for prevention of hypertension and obesity are not known. The overall aim of this study was to investigate whether different patterns of accumulation of PA are differentially associated with hypertension and obesity in Australian women over 21 years of age. Specifically, we investigated whether, for the same weekly volume of PA, the number of sessions (frequency) and vigorousness of PA (intensity) were associated with a reduction in the occurrence of hypertension and obesity in women. MethodsData from the 1973–1978 and 1946–1951 cohorts of the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health were analyzed (n = 20,588; 12%–16% with a Bachelor's or higher degree). Self-reported PA, hypertension, height, and weight were collected using mail surveys every 3 years from 1998/2000 to 2019/2021. Cox proportional hazard models were used to investigate the association of PA volume (none; 33–499; 500–999; 1000+ MET-min/week), weekly frequency (none; 1–2 times; 3–4 times; 5–7 times; 8+ times), and the proportion of vigorous PA to total volume of PA (none; 0%; 1%–33%; 34%–66%; 67%–100%) with odds of hypertension and obesity from 2000 to 2021. ResultsThe cumulative incidence of hypertension was 6% in the 1973–1978 and 23% in the 1946–1951 cohort; 27% of women in the 1973–1978 and 15% in the 1946–1951 cohort developed obesity over the period. Overall, a higher volume of PA was associated with reduced odds of hypertension and obesity. When the volume of PA was considered, the odds of hypertension did not vary according to the frequency or intensity of PA. However, increased proportion of vigorous PA to the total volume of PA was associated with a small additional reduction in the risk of obesity. ConclusionPA volume appears to be more important than the pattern of accumulation for the prevention of hypertension and obesity. Incorporating more sessions, particularly of vigorous-intensity PA, may provide extra benefits for the prevention of obesity.

Assessment Methods and their Effectiveness in Evaluating Physical Fitness in School Settings

Forming a vital contribution to the development of health conditions for individuals during school years, physical fitness tests and interventions in school environments are among such aspects. This general research article focuses on physical fitness assessment and brings together a humongous literature base. As sample of the study varied cohort from different contributors: from different schools, students , teachers and administrators. By means of stratified random sampling. The study begins with a baseline evaluation of fitness in the participants using both standardized tests recommended by Williams &amp; Lacy, as well as self-report surveys derived from Vanhees et al This preliminary phase acts exactly like how much physically active that samples are currently at this point during their lifetime. This study provides an overall view of the physical fitness tests and interventions that have been conducted in various school systems. To establish the pre and post-intervention performances of cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength flexibility as well body composition were measured using standardized fitness tests. Application of appropriate interventions led to significant improvements in various components of fitness. In addition, self-reported physical activity questionnaires and wearable activity tracker data offer insight into behavioral changes among participants observed via frequency duration and intensity levels. Collectively, the findings discussed above provide insight into assessment measures which promote physical fitness in students and puts light on implications for teachers, school administrators as well as research community. 

EXPLORING PSYCHOLOGICAL NEED SATISFACTION AND MOTIVATION TO EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN AN ARAB CONTEXT

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS Promoting physical activity (PA) requires an understanding of PA behavior, its correlates, and its determinants. This study aimed to assess self-reported PA behavior of adults in Qatar and understand the associations between self-determination theory (SDT) based motivational processes and PA behavior. METHODS This cross-sectional study used an anonymous online questionnaire within Qatar comprising demographic questions, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3), and the Psychological Need Satisfaction in Exercise (PNSE) scale. RESULTS Respondents (N = 347; nfemales=246, nmales=101) were 21.6% non-Arab expats, 63.7% Arab expats, and 14.7% Qatari nationals. The prevalence of sufficient PA (minimum of 600 MET·min per week according to the IPAQ-SF criteria) was 66%, while 34% of participants were insufficiently active. Males (x¯ = 1808.16±2517.47 MET·min·wk-1) were significantly more active than females (x¯ = 1049.40±1717.31 MET·min·wk-1; P=0.001), and reported more autonomous forms of regulation (x¯ identified=2.86, x¯ integrated=2.33, x¯ intrinsic=2.64) than females (x¯ identified=2.58, x¯ integrated=2.01, x¯ intrinsic=2.36; P&amp;lt;0.05), as well as higher perceived competence satisfaction (x¯ =3.89) than females (x¯ = 3.49; P=0.025). A bivariate correlation showed that total PA and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were positively and significantly (P&amp;lt;0.01) associated with autonomous forms of regulation, namely, identified (rtotal_PA=0.16, rMVPA=0.15) integrated (rtotal_PA=0.26, rMVPA=0.25), and intrinsic (rtotal_PA=0.20, rMVPA=0.18) regulation, as well as perceived competence in exercise (rtotal_PA=0.21, rMVPA=0.18; P&amp;lt;0.01). CONCLUSION The bivariate correlation results were consistent with the theoretical tenets of SDT, supporting the application of SDT to advance the understanding of psychological associations of PA in predominantly Arab populations. The observed gender gap in physical activity levels is consistent with previous research in Arab populations. Future research could target SDT constructs to promote PA behavior in Arab women through culturally sensitive interventions.

Correlation between Physical Activity Time Reported by the IPAQ and Accelerometer in Syrian Adults

Background: The accelerometer and self-report questionnaires have been recommended as efficient methods to measure physical activity (PA). The aim of this work is to investigate issues associated with PA assessment using the ActiGraph WGT3X-BT (AG) accelerometer and the Syrian version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form (IPAQ-SF-SY) in adults living in Damascus city.Methods: A sample of 52 (age 18- 60 years) Syrian men (17) and women (35) in a cross-sectional study wore the AG accelerometer for seven days and completed the IPAQ-SF-SY on the seventh day. Total PA, time spends in standing and sitting assessed by IPAQ-SF-SY and AG accelerometer were compared.Results: The IPAQ-SF-SY overestimates PA time among Syrian adults. IPAQ-SF-SY reported more time of total PA [763(660) vs 607(149) min, p=0.003], vigorous PA [29(1) vs 1(0.2) min, p=0.524], moderate PA [94(76) vs 42(22) min, p=0.032], MVPA [122(106) vs 43(22) min, p=0.019], and significantly less sedentary time than AG accelerometer [447(180) vs 643(93) min, p=0.728], mean (SD) respectively. Some differences were noticed in the correlations by gender, age, BMI, education statues, and smoking for PA and sedentary behavior (SB). For all correlations, there were no significant differences between sub groups.Conclusions: Data suggest that it is important to improve the specificity and sensitivity of the IPAQ-SF-SY with Arabic-speaking subjects and further study is needed to approve the utilization of PA self-report in Arabic.

Associations of device-measured and self-reported physical activity with alcohol consumption: Secondary analyses of a randomized controlled trial (FitForChange)

BackgroundPhysical activity (PA) is increasingly used as an adjunct treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Previous studies have relied on self-report measures of PA, which are prone to measurement error. In the context of a randomized controlled trial of PA for AUD, we examined: (1) associations between device-measured and self-reported PA, (2) associations between PA measurements and alcohol use, and (3) the feasibility of obtaining device-measured PA data in this population. MethodOne-hundred and forty individuals with clinician-diagnosed AUD participated in a 12-week intervention comparing usual care (phone counselling) to yoga-based exercise and aerobic exercise. Device-measured PA (Actigraph GT3x), self-reported PA (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) and alcohol consumption (Timeline Follow Back Method) were assessed before and after the trial. Effects of the interventions on PA levels were assessed using linear mixed models. ResultsIn total, 42% (n=59) of participants returned usable device-measured PA data (mean age= 56±10 years, 73% male). Device-measured and self-reported vigorous-intensity PA were correlated (β= −0.02, 95%CI= −0.03, −0.00). No associations were found for moderate-intensity PA. Compared to usual care, time spent in device-measured light-intensity PA increased in the aerobic exercise group (∆= 357, 95%CI= 709, 5.24). Increases in device-measured light-intensity PA were associated with fewer standard drinks (∆= −0.24, 95%CI= −0.03, −0.44), and fewer heavy drinking days (∆= −0.06, 95%CI=-0.01, −0.10). ConclusionIncreases in light-intensity/habitual PA were associated with less alcohol consumption in adults with AUD. Self-reported PA data should be interpreted with caution. Incentives are needed to obtain device-measured PA data in AUD populations.

Physical activity alters the effect of genetic determinants of adiposity on hypertension among individuals of European ancestry in the UKB.

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is modulated by genetic variants. This study aimed to assess the effect of obesity genetic liability and physical activity on hypertension among European and African ancestry individuals within the UK Biobank (UKB). Participants were 230 115 individuals of European ancestry and 3239 individuals of African ancestry from UKB. Genetic liability for obesity were estimated using previously published data including genetic variants and effect sizes for body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR) and waist circumference (WC) using Plink software. The outcome was defined as stage 2 hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, or the use of anti-hypertensive medications). The association between obesity genetic liability and the outcome was assessed across categories of self-reported physical activity using logistic regression. Among European ancestry participants, there was up to a 1.2 greater odds of hypertension in individuals with high genetic liability and low physical activity compared to individuals with low genetic liability and high physical activity (p < 0.001). In individuals engaging in low levels of physical activity compared with moderate/high physical activity, the effect of BMI genetic liability on hypertension was greater (p interaction = 0.04). There was no evidence of an association between obesity genetic liability and hypertension in individuals of African ancestry in the whole sample or within separate physical activity groups (p > 0.05). This study suggests that higher physical activity levels are associated with lower odds of stage 2 hypertension among European ancestry individuals who carry high genetic liability for obesity. This cannot be inferred for individuals of African ancestry, possibly due to the low African ancestry sample size within the UKB.

Longitudinal Associations Between Physical Activity and Depressive Symptoms in Chinese Children: Evidence from the Tongji Mental Health Cohort Study.

We aimed to examine the associations between depressive symptoms and physical activity parameters (e.g., intensity, frequency, and duration) among Chinese school-aged children. Participants in this study were extracted from the Tongji Mental Health Cohort Study. The baseline survey was conducted in June 2020 involving 2588 school-aged children from two primary schools in Hubei Province, China. A total of 2435 children were followed up successfully in December 2020. The Children's Depression Inventory Short Form (CDI-S) was applied to evaluate depressive symptoms among school-aged children. The Physical Activity Rating Scale-3 (PARS-3) was adopted to estimate children's physical activity parameters including the intensity, frequency, and duration. Generalized estimation equation models were used to explore the longitudinal associations between physical activity and depressive symptoms among school-aged children. Engaging in moderate levels of physical activity (OR, 0.800; 95%CI, 0.692-0.924) or high levels of physical activity (OR, 0.808; 95%CI, 0.689-0.947) in the baseline survey was associated with a reduced risk of developing depressive symptoms in the follow-up survey compared with children engaging in low levels of physical activity. Stratified analyses revealed that the associations between physical activity and depressive symptoms exhibited a significant correlation among boys and children in the older age group (11-12years). Our findings showed that engaging in physical activity more than once a week, with each session lasting 20min or longer, was related to significant reductions in depressive symptoms by 43.8% and 22.3%, respectively. Self-reported physical activity is positively associated with improved mental health among Chinese school-aged children, especially when considering parameters such as frequency and duration. The association between vigorous-intensity physical activity and depressive symptoms in children should be cautiously interpreted. Future research should continue to explore the effects of vigorous-intensity physical activity on depressive symptoms in children.

Coronary Artery Calcification and High-Volume Physical Activity: Role of Lower Intensity versus Longer Duration of Exercise.

While high-volume physical activity (PA) has been linked to elevated coronary artery calcification (CAC), the role of intensity versus duration of PA has not been investigated. The purpose of the study was to examine the role of intensity versus duration of PA in relation to CAC. Data are from 23,383 apparently healthy men who completed a PA questionnaire and underwent CAC scanning as part of a preventive exam. Self-reported PA was categorized into 4 groups of average intensity and weekly duration of PA and (average intensity: 1, 3-5.9, 6-8.9, and 9-12 metabolic equivalents of task [METs]; weekly duration: 0,  > 0-<2, 2-<5, and ≥5 hours/week). Mean CAC and CAC ≥ 100 Agatston Units (AU) were regressed separately on continuous or categorical average intensity and weekly duration of PA. The mean and standard deviation (SD) age was 51.7 (8.3) years, and mean CAC was 174.8 (543.6) AU with 23.5% of men presenting with CAC ≥ 100 AU. Higher average intensity of PA was related to lower mean CAC (-3.1%/MET, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -4.6, -1.6%/MET) and lower relative risk (RR) of CAC ≥ 100 AU (RR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98, 1.00/MET). Opposite trend was observed for the duration component wherein higher weekly duration of PA was significantly associated with greater mean CAC and RR of CAC ≥ 100 AU. Elevated CAC was associated with lower average intensity and longer duration of PA in men, providing new insight into the complex relationship between leisure-time PA behaviors and risk of CAC.

Evaluating knowledge, attitude, and physical activity levels related to cardiovascular disease in Egyptian adults with and without cardiovascular disease: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a significant health challenge in Egypt, yet there exists limited understanding regarding the knowledge, attitudes, and physical activity levels associated with CVD. These factors play a pivotal role in developing effective prevention and management strategies. Hence, this cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate Egyptian adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and physical activity (KAP) levels.MethodsData were collected using a previously validated questionnaire encompassing demographic characteristics, CVD knowledge (including risk factors and symptoms), attitudes toward CVD, and self-reported physical activity levels. The survey was distributed among social media channels, and trained researchers administered the questionnaire via face-to-face interviews with adult patients with and without CVD admitted to Cairo University Hospital clinics.ResultsThe study involved 591 participants, of whom 21.7% had CVD. Overall, participants exhibited poor knowledge regarding CVD, with a mean score of 21 ± 7 out of 40, equivalent to 52.5%. Attitudes toward CVD were moderate, with a mean score of 66.38 ± 8.7 out of 85, approximately 78%. Physical activity levels per week were also moderate, averaging 1188 MET-min with a range of 1121–18,761. Subgroup analysis revealed that individuals with CVD had lower average knowledge, attitude, and physical activity levels than those without CVD. Working in the healthcare field was a predictor of higher knowledge score (standard error (SE) 5.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.61 to 7.17, P < 0.001), while those with CVD and smokers were predictors of lower attitude score (SE -4.08, 95% CI -6.43 to -1.73, P < 0.001) and (SE -2.54, 95% CI -4.69 to -0.40, P = 0.02), respectively.ConclusionThe study findings highlight a significant disparity in knowledge, attitudes, and physical activity levels related to CVD in Egypt. Targeted interventions aimed at improving awareness, fostering positive attitudes, and promoting physical activity among individuals at risk for CVD are crucial for effective prevention and management.

The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in Stockholm County - Evidence from time series models of smartphone measured daily steps data spanning over 3 years

BackgroundIt has been reported that physical activity levels decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous studies often relied on self-reported physical activity, which has low accuracy. Studies based on objectively measured physical activity have had short data collection periods, thereby not allowing the consideration of pre-pandemic levels of physical activity or the influence over the different waves of the pandemic. MethodsIn this study, we utilize smartphone-measured step data from a nonprobability sample in Stockholm County, Sweden, where measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 differed from those in many other countries. The results are based on 522 individuals and 532,739 person-days with step data spanning from 2019 to 2021. Generalized additive models were fitted for each individual, and meta-regression was used to combine the results from individual models. ResultsDaily steps decreased during the first wave but increased during the third wave compared to individual pre-pandemic levels. The decrease in daily steps occurred primarily in young individuals and those with occupations allowing remote work. Individuals of retirement age on the contrary increased their daily steps during the same period. ConclusionsThis study reveal that the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic was temporary and that younger age and the possibility of working from home were associated with a decreasing trend in physical activity.

Global cognition, gender, and level of education predict dual-task gait speed variability metrics in older adults.

To determine if demographic variables and measures of cognitive function, functional mobility, self-reported balance self-efficacy, and self-reported physical activity can predict gait speed variability during single-task walking (STgscv), during cognitive-motor dual-tasking (DTgscv), and dual-task effect on gait speed variability (DTEgscv) in older adults. In 62 older adults, demographics were recorded and cognitive function (including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA), functional mobility, balance self-efficacy (Activity-Specific Balance Confidence Scale, ABC), and self-reported physical activity (Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly, PASE) were assessed. Three linear regression models were used to determine whether the functional mobility tests, PASE score, ABC score, and tests of cognitive function predicted gait speed variability outcomes (STgscv, DTgscv, DTEgscv), with demographics included as covariates. MoCA score (p = 0.003), gender (p = 0.040), and years of education (p = 0.010) significantly predicted DTgscv (R^2 = 0.297, p = 0.002). MoCA score (p = 0.008) and years of education (p < 0.001) also significantly predicted DTEgscv. Despite a significant regression model (R^2 = 0.316, p = 0.001), there were no significant individual predictors of STgscv. Older adults with lower cognitive function scores, according to the MoCA, and higher levels of education demonstrate larger gait speed variability during dual-tasking and may be at increased risk of real-world mobility issues or falling.

Get active now or later? The association between physical activity and risk and time preferences

Despite the well-established link between physical activity and positive health outcomes, much of the world’s population remains inactive. Many people don’t invest in health behaviours, such as physical activity, in the present, despite the long-term benefits of this. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between physical activity levels and risk and time preferences in university students. A maximum likelihood model was used to jointly estimate risk and time preferences (elicited in an incentivised choice experiment), and to examine the relationship between these preferences and self-reported physical activity. Physically inactive people discounted the future significantly more than physically active people did. Physically active people made slightly more risky choices in our risk attitude task, although this directional relationship was not statistically significant. The link between time preferences and physical activity suggests that further research on behavioural strategies such as commitment devices, nudging or temptation bundling may be helpful in increasing physical activity for individuals who discount the future in favour of more immediate benefits.