WHO Physical Activity Recommendations Research Articles

Sociodemographics, playing Habits, adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern, dietary supplements intake, physical activity level, and degree of Internet gaming disorder of Portuguese chess players

Introduction: Lifestyle and gaming habits may influence chess players' adhesion to healthy dietary patterns. This study aims to characterize Portuguese chess players sociodemographics, playing traits, adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), dietary supplement (DS) consumption, physical activity level, degree of internet gaming disorder (IGD) and to study predictors of adherence to the MD. Methods: Data was gathered using an online survey disseminated through social networks, which included questions regarding sociodemographics, chess playing habits, the PREDIMED questionnaire, DS consumption, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale. Results: The 192 respondents (93.8 % males) had a mean of 41 years (SD = 14), high education (mean = 15.1 y, SD = 1.7), and played chess for 6.3 hours (SD = 9.7) a week. Most (58.9 %, n = 113) reported moderate adherence to the MD, 30.2 % (n = 58) ingested DS, 64.1 % (n = 123) adhered to the WHO Physical Activity Recommendations, and no subject was classified with IGD. Higher Elo scores correlated with higher red/processed meat consumption (OR = 4.935, p = 0.005). A greater volume of chess play related to higher consumption of pastries and sweets (OR = 3.127, p = 0.007). Higher IGD scores were associated with lower adhesion to the MD (OR = 1.067, p = 0.019). Conclusions: The most dedicated chess players may be less concerned with maintaining a balanced diet and may require supervision from health professionals. Funding: None to disclose.

Physical activity promotion among pregnancy - the role of physician from the women's perspective.

The clear benefits of planned and supervised physical activity (PA) during pregnancy make it imperative that women are encouraged and educated about this activity. This study aimed to investigate how effectively physician promote physical activity and exercise among pregnant women. It also examines pro-health changes in selected health behaviours during pregnancy. This cross-sectional study recruited a total of 353 pregnant women in Wielkopolskie Voivodship in Poland. An anonymous survey (on-line or in-paper) was used to assess physical activity before and during pregnancy (with Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire), physical activity self-efficacy, well-being (WHO-5 Well-Being Index), and guidance received from physicians on physical activity during pregnancy. Only 41% of women surveyed followed WHO recommendations for PA before pregnancy, and they were much more likely to discuss safety and the need to change the intensity or type of PA with their doctor or gynaecologist. Only 23% of women were asked about their PA before pregnancy and less than 40% were encouraged to be active during pregnancy. We observed a higher probability of poor well-being among pregnant women who were inactive before pregnancy (OR = 1.873, 95%CI 1.026 to 3.421, p = 0.041). Health professionals infrequently educate and motivate women to be physically active during pregnancy. Physician advice, as it is currently perceived by women, seems to be insufficient to help pregnant women meet the recommendations for PA during pregnancy.

Handbike Riding in the Brescia Urban Loose Space: Topographical Evaluation and Metabolic Demand Estimation of Four Suitable Tracks

This study examines four tracks (Ts) suitable for handbikes (HBs) in the urban area of Brescia, Italy. WHO physical activity (PA) recommendations challenge kinesiologists to find opportunities to promote exercise in the urban context using HBs. This study aims to characterize T features, assess the physical demands of HB cycling, and promote the use of HBs. Track length, elevation changes, slope, and ascent sections were analyzed. Participants’ physiological engagement during HB cycling was measured. The data were gathered using specialized equipment including a metabolimeter, a power meter, a heart rate monitor, and a cycle computer. Crucially, the findings demonstrate that all four Ts facilitate PA above the recommended threshold (>3 MET) regardless of the speed. The study identifies specific speeds required to achieve vigorous PA (>6 MET) on each T. In summary, this study’s analysis of various tracks reveals their potential to meet PA guidelines, even at a slow pace. Moreover, this research establishes speed thresholds for vigorous PA. This information is valuable for both able-bodied individuals and those with mobility challenges when planning effective exercise routines. Moreover, the findings support municipalities in promoting adapted PA in urban areas, enhancing path usability.

O.2.3-7 Physical activity levels and sociodemographic factors associated with meeting recommended levels among shop attendants in Mbarara municipality, Uganda

Abstract Purpose Shop attendants are urban dwellers who may spend significant periods in sedentary lifestyles exposing them to non-communicable diseases. This study assessed the physical activity levels and sociodemographic factors associated with meeting the WHO recommended physical activity levels among shop attendants in Mbarara municipality, Uganda. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among 301 shop attendants. We used the global physical activity questionnaire to assess participants' physical activity levels. Modified Poisson regression was used to assess the sociodemographic factors associated with meeting recommended physical activity levels. Results Of the 301 participants, 234 (77.7%) met the WHO physical activity recommendations, especially through work-related physical activity of moderate intensity 194 (64.5%). The median weekly duration of all moderate-intensity physical activity was 180 min (IQR=90 to 360). The median daily sedentary time was 300 min (IQR=300 to 360). Being male (adjusted prevalence ratio=1.33, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.51) was significantly associated with meeting recommended physical activity levels. Conclusion The physical activity levels among shop attendants were high and were mostly achieved through work-related activities of moderate intensity, with males being more likely to meet recommended physical activity levels. Findings suggest a need for gender-sensitive initiatives to increase physical activity levels, especially among female shop attendants.

Níveis de atividade física em Fisioterapeutas

Introduction: Low physical activity (PA) levels are a public health problem. Despite the evidence of the health benefits of PA, studies show that the Portuguese population is not active enough to benefit their health. Health professionals, including Physiotherapists, have an important role to play in promoting PA to their patients. If Portuguese Physiotherapists are to be called upon to act as PA specialists, it must first be determined whether they lead by example. Objectives: To evaluate the PA levels of Portuguese Physiotherapists according to the most recent WHO recommendations. Materials and Methods: An online questionnaire was delivered and applied over a period of 6 months, containing a characterization form of sociodemographic data and by the IPAQ-SF. A sample composed of 553 Physiotherapists was obtained. Results: The IPAQ-SF results revealed a high level of PA (56.8%), a moderate level of PA (31.5%), and a low level of PA (11.8%). Regarding the analysis of the PA METS, we were able to observe that the vigorous PA had a higher average of 2413.15 (SD=4201.411) METs/min, followed by the moderate PA with an average of 1857.91 (SD=2930 .073) METs/min and, finally, the walking with an average of 1635.54 (SD=2841.805) METs/min. Conclusions: It was verified that the Portuguese Physiotherapists’ PA levels are high and that 88.3% of the sample complies with the WHO recommendations for PA. Portuguese Physiotherapists may be in a leadership position by the example they settle in promoting regular PA to their patients.

Physical Activity among Primary Health Care Physicians and Its Impact on Counseling Practices

Introduction: Physical inactivity has been linked to various noncommunicable diseases and their related health problems. As primary health care physicians (PHCPs) play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing disease, this study aims to determine the extent of physical inactivity among PHCPs and its impact on their counseling practices. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across all primary health care centers in Qatar, targeting 511 physicians. A modified self-administered WHO stepwise tool was used to measure physical activity (PA) with another questionnaire to assess the counseling practices among PHCPs. Results: Out of 511 physicians, 306 (59.9%) responded to the survey. The majority of the participants were male (58.1%) with an average age of 45.8 ± 7.9 years. The majority of PHCPs were from the UK (44.3%), while only 4.1% were Qatari. Family physician consultants made up 51% of the respondents, while 30.2% were general practitioners, and the average years of experience were 14 ± 8.3 years. Only 39.5% of the respondents met the WHO PA recommendations. 50.5% of the physicians were overweight, and 23.1% were obese. The median percentage of patients counseled about PA was only 60 [IQR: 40–80]%, and there was no link found between a physician’s PA level and the percentage of patients they counseled on the subject. Conclusion: Physicians reported a high prevalence of physical inactivity. Furthermore, the practice of counseling the public on PA was low. Interventions are needed inside and outside the workplace to improve the PA among PHCPs and their counseling practices.

노년기 복합 만성질환 위험에 대한 신체활동과 하체 근력의 복합효과 분석

The purpose of this population-based study was to examine the relationships of multimorbidity with physical activity and lower body muscle strength in older adults aged 65 years and older who participated in the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging in 2020. Multimorbidy was defined as having two or more physician-diagnosed chronic diseases. Physical activity in minutes per week was assessed with a self-reported questionnaire. Lower body muscle strength was assessed by performing 5 times sit-to-stand tests. Logistic regression analysis showed that individuals who did not meet the WHO recommendations for physical activity were at increased risk for multimorbidity (odds ratio, OR=1.207, p=0.044) compared with individuals without multimorbidity (OR=1). Individuals with weak lower body muscle strength were at increased risk for multimorbidity (OR=1.719, p0.001) compared with individuals with normal lower body muscle strength (OR=1). Finally, individuals who had the coexistence of insufficient physical activity and weak lower body muscle strength were at the highest risk for multimorbidity (OR=2.697, p0.001) compared with individuals with sufficient physical activity and normal lower body muscle strength (OR=1). The current findings of the study suggest that a lifestyle strategy targeting adequate amount of physical activity and normal lower body muscle strength is urgent for healthy aging.

Factors associated with provision of physical activity in primary schools in Makindye Division in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundGlobally, school-going children spend most of their days at school, sitting in lessons and unable to achieve the daily WHO recommendations for Physical Activity (PA) of at least 60 minutes per day. Limited studies have assessed the opportunities schools provide for PA to help the children achieve their daily recommended PA. We determined the level of and the factors associated with PA offered in primary schools in Makindye Division in Kampala during the school term.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in 36 selected government and private primary schools in Makindye Division, Kampala. PA was defined as the amount of time in minutes available for PA as per WHO recommendations – sufficient (60 minutes or more of PA) or insufficient (less than 60 minutes of PA) and assessed for any factors associated with provision of time for PA in schools. Data were collected by interview administered questionnaires and analysed descriptively. Factors associated with PA were assessed using a logistic regression model.ResultsOf the 36 schools, 3 were government and 33 were private schools. The proportion of schools offering sufficient time for PA among Primary schools in the Makindye Division was (8/36) 22%. The average time for PA for all schools per week was 197 minutes (SD 70.7). Sufficient PA was associated with the provision of PE lessons after a break or after lunch (p-value 0.038). Sufficient PA was more likely in schools that offered volleyball (OR 8.69), had space in the school for PA (OR 13.27), provided athletics (OR 2.26) and whose fees were Ushs 700,000 (USD 187) or more (OR 1.30).ConclusionsOnly 22% of sampled schools offered sufficient time for PA among Primary schools in Kampala per WHO guidelines. Provision of sufficient time for PA was associated with PE scheduled either after break or lunch. Sufficient PA was more likely with schools that had space for PA, schools which offered volleyball and athletics, and whose fees were 700,000/= or more.Schools should consider scheduling PE lessons after break or after lunch to increase the likelihood of meeting the targeted time for PA. Primary schools need to be supported to establish facilities and to increase diversity in available activities to ensure children achieve their recommended PA.

Associations between changes in physical activity and perceived social exclusion and loneliness within middle-aged adults – longitudinal evidence from the German ageing survey

BackgroundPrevious research showed negative associations between physical activity and loneliness in older adults. However, information on associations among middle-aged adults is scarce. In this prognostic factor study, we investigated if starting or stopping to follow the WHO physical activity recommendations was associated with changes in perceived social exclusion and loneliness in this age bracket.MethodsWe used longitudinal representative data of participants aged 40 to 64 years from the German Ageing Survey waves in 2014 and 2017 (analytical sample = 4,264 observations, 54% women). Perceived social exclusion was investigated with the scale from Bude and Lantermann. Loneliness was quantified with the 6-items loneliness scale from De Jong Gierveld. Information from the International Physical Activity Survey items on the time spend in moderate and vigorous physical activity per week was dichotomized. Participants were coded as either following or not following the WHO´s physical activity recommendations of spending at least 150 min of moderate, 75 min of vigorous or an appropriated combination of physical activity per week. We investigated the within (individual) association between starting and stopping to follow WHO´s physical activity recommendations and perceived social exclusion as well as loneliness in asymmetric fixed effects regressions. Analyses were adjusted for age, marital status, employment status, social-network size, general self-efficacy, depressive symptoms, self-rated health, BMI, comorbidities, and physical functioning (SF-36).ResultsStopping to follow the physical activity recommendations from the WHO was associated with perceived social exclusion (ß= 0.09 p = 0.04) but not with loneliness (ß=-0.01, p = 0.71). Starting to follow the WHO physical activity recommendations was neither associated with social exclusion (ß=-0.02, p = 0.54) nor with loneliness (ß=-0.01, p = 0.74) in adjusted asymmetric fixed effects regressions.ConclusionIn middle-aged adults, longitudinal associations were found for physical activity and perceived social exclusion. Perceived social exclusion may be prevented by maintaining at least 150 min of moderate physical activities per week, which is the WHO physical activity recommendation. Future research should investigate moderators and mediators in the association between physical activity and social exclusion as well as loneliness.

Correlates of sedentary behaviors in Austrian children and adolescents

<abstract> <p>A large proportion of children and adolescents spend their leisure time with predominantly sedentary pursuits and do not reach the WHO physical activity recommendations. As there remains limited research on specific sedentary behaviors in Austrian children and adolescents, we investigated time spent sitting and the utilization of various media during school days and the weekend in 6- to 15-year-old schoolchildren. Data for this cross-sectional study were collected in Spring 2022 with a standardized questionnaire that was based on the “Heidelberger Questionnaire for the Assessment of Sitting Behavior in Children and Adolescents”. Questions examined the frequency and duration of different sedentary behaviors separately for weekdays and weekends. A total of 2061 students were included in the analyses. Various factors, including school grade, sex, or recreational behavior, were implemented in a multifactorial ANOVA accounting for 1st order interactions. The mean sitting time of children and adolescents of all eight school grades was 10.4 ± 1.7 hours, with 56.7% associated with school. A significant increase in sitting time was observed from 1st grade (10.0 ± 1.3 h) to 8th grade (12.3 ± 1.2 h; p < 0.01), while sleep duration decreased with increasing age (p < 0.01). Media use was 1.2 ± 0.7 h in 1st grade and increased to 3.2 ± 1.2 h by 8th grade (p < 0.01). Physical activity decreased from 4.5 ± 1.4 h to 3.6 ± 1.0 h during the same period. While the increase in sitting time on weekdays was at the expense of sleep duration, the increase in sitting time on weekend days was at the expense of time spent in physical activity. In summary, there was a substantial increase in sedentary time from 1st to 8th grade, with school-related sedentary time accounting for the largest proportion, followed by a large increase in time spent with electronic media with increasing age. In addition, high sedentary time may come at the expense of sufficient sleep time, which further emphasizes the need to address sedentary behavior and sleep as important health correlates.</p> </abstract>

Expanding our understanding of the global impact of physical inactivity

Physical inactivity (ie, not meeting WHO recommendations for physical activity) is a highly prevalent risk factor for premature mortality and several non-communicable diseases (NCDs).1 An important metric of public health burden is health-care cost; physical inactivity cost health-care systems INT$53·8 billion worldwide in 2013.2 The scientific evidence base on the health effects and global burden of physical inactivity has expanded greatly.3–5 Despite these scientific advances, the global prevalence of physical inactivity among adults was 27·5% in 2016, an estimate that remained stable since 2001.

Factors associated with meeting the WHO physical activity recommendations in pregnant Colombian women

In the absence of medical contraindications, physical activity (PA) can offer health maternal and fetal health outcomes during pregnancy. However, most pregnant women may not consider PA to be feasible, suitable and safe. Hence, it is essential to determine the prevalence of pregnant women who meet the PA recommendations and the possible factors associated with that meeting, since it might be important from the perspective of pregnant women's health. The aim of the present study was to establish the prevalence of meeting the World Health Organization PA recommendations for Colombian pregnant women, as well as possible factors that may be associated with meeting that recommendations. A cross-sectional study including representative data from the National Nutritional Situation Survey (2015) in Colombia was performed. Data were collected in 2015–2016. From an initial sample of 1140 Colombian pregnant women, 702 participants with complete data were included in the final analysis. PA was assessed by self-reported information through the long version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Several potential factors were analysed according to four levels of the socioecological model: the individual, interpersonal, organizational and community levels. The prevalence of Colombian pregnant women who met with the PA recommendations was 7.5%. Indigenous and Mestizo pregnant women showed lower probabilities of meeting the PA recommendations [Indigenous: OR 0.05, 95% CI (0.01–0.18); Mestizo: OR 0.12, 95% CI (0.06–0.22)] than Afro-Colombian participants. Additionally, participants who lived near green and safe spaces for PA were more likely to meet the PA recommendations [OR 2.30, 95% CI (1.06–4.79)] than those who did not live near green areas. In conclusion, a low percentage of Colombian pregnant women met the new PA recommendations. The associations found according to race/ethnicity and living near green and safe areas underline the presence of fundamental disparities associated with meeting PA recommendations.

Effects of physical activity and exercise interventions on Alzheimer's disease: an umbrella review of existing meta-analyses.

During the last decade, physical activity (PA) (or "exercise") has been identified as one of the main modifiable factors that influence the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. We performed an umbrella review to summarize the evidence on the association between PA/exercise and the risk of developing AD risk, and the effect of exercise interventions on the progression of AD. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, SportDiscus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science (March 2022) to identify meta-analyses assessing the association between PA and the incidence of AD, and assessing the effect of exercise interventions on patients with AD. Twenty-one studies were included. The results with strongest evidence revealed the positive effects of PA on AD risk. Specifically, meeting the WHO recommendations for PA was associated with a lower risk of AD. They also revealed positive effects of exercise on cognitive function, physical performance, and functional independence. There is strong evidence of a protective effect of regular PA against AD risk; however, the dose-response association remains unclear. Physical exercise seems to improve several dimensions in patients with AD, although research is warranted to elucidate the exercise characteristics that promote the greatest benefits.

Objectively measured adherence to physical activity among patients with coronary artery disease: Comparison of the 2010 and 2020 World Health Organization guidelines and daily steps.

BackgroundTailored recommendations for patients after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) need physical activity (PA) to be objectively measured and assessed for adherence to guidelines. The recent WHO guidelines removed the daily recommended bout duration, while the potential impact of this change on patients after PCI remains unclear.AimWe evaluated prevalence estimates of adherence to PA recommendations among patients after PCI across the 2010 [≥30 min moderate- to vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA) at ≥ 10-min bout duration] and 2020 WHO guidelines (≥30 min of MVPA of any bout duration), as well as 7,500 and 10,000 steps.MethodsWe conducted an observational longitudinal single-center study with patients after PCI for chronic or acute coronary syndrome (ACS); maximal age 80 years. Wrist-worn accelerometers recorded participants’ PA data from the evening of hospital discharge over the next 18 days.ResultsWe analyzed data from 282 participants with sufficient minimum wear time (7 days of ≥12 h), including 45 (16%) women; and 249 (88%) with ACS. Median wear time was 18 (17, 18) days. Median participant age was 62 (55, 69) years. Fifty-two participants (18.4%) fulfilled 2010 WHO guidelines and 226 (80.1%) fulfilled the 2020 WHO guidelines. Further, 209 (74.1%) participants achieved ≥7,500 steps/day and 155 (55.0%) performed ≥10,000 steps/day.ConclusionAmong participants after PCI, most MVPA was accumulated in bouts <10 min, leading to a fourfold discrepancy between participants fulfilling the 2010 and 2020 WHO PA recommendations. The number of steps/day may be a valid proxy to recent WHO PA recommendations as it is not dependent on the bout-length definition.Clinical trial registration[ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT04663373].

Physical activity and sedentarism among seniors in France, and their impact on health.

In the context of the ageing of the French population, physical activity becomes a principal means for maintaining good health. International organisations are thus giving increasing importance to physical activity in programmes of disease-prevention. In parallel with these concerns, studies have shown the impact of sedentary activities (in particularly as a result of the seated position and screen time) on health. To show the links between physical activity, sedentarism and health indicators and to identify the socio-demographic variables by which they are influenced (particularly gender). This is a transversal epidemiological study conducted among the French population between 2014 and 2016 by Santé publique France, the national public health agency. The RPAQ (Recent Physical Activity Questionnaire) was used to measure the physical activity and sedentary lifestyle of individuals. The analyses focus on the behaviours among the population of older adults (55-74 years old, n = 1155). A third of French older adults does not meet the WHO recommended physical activity levels, particularly so among women. The results of this survey point to significant links between health indicators (especially overweight and obesity) and the physical activity level and sedentarity of older adults. From the age of 60, energy expenditure linked to physical activity increases before decreasing from the age of 65. Older adults spend almost 6 hours per day in sedentary activities. The combinations between physical activity and sedentarism highlight four profiles of older adults. The most active profile is the one with the best health indicators. The links between health, sedentarity and physical activity are unequivocal: people who achieve the WHO recommendations for physical activity and spend less than 7 hours each day in sedentary activities are those who also have the best health indicators. These results vary with sociographic characteristics and reveal significant links with health indicators.

Determinants of physical activity among 6856 individuals with diabetes: a nationwide cross-sectional study

IntroductionThe aims of this cross-sectional study were to (1) describe habitual physical activity and adherence to WHO recommendations, and (2) investigate the association of comorbidity, obesity, stress, and health-related quality...

Physical activity promotion at the local government level among the local community

Physical inactivity is a major public health issue. For the prevention and management of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, and a number of malignancies, regular physical activity is a critical protective factor. Along with helping to maintain a healthy weight and overall wellbeing, physical activity has positive effects on mental health, including the avoidance of cognitive decline and the symptoms of despair and anxiety. Local governments all across the world have responded to this problem by launching population-level projects that give locals access to exercise opportunities. Local governments, through the implementation of their own tasks of health promotion and protection, carry out public health tasks as defined by the Law of 11 September 2015 on Public Health. These tasks include activities in the area of physical activity.&#x0D;           The aim of the article was to show the role of local government in promoting physical activity among the local community. The article discusses such issues as WHO recommendations for physical activity as well as activities undertaken by local governments in the area of health promotion in the form of health policy programs and activities carried out in cooperation with NGOs.

Implementation and evaluation of an individualized physical exercise promotion program in people with manifested risk factors for multimorbidity (MultiPill-Exercise): a study protocol for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial

BackgroundMultimorbidity is a major problem in Europe, increasing the need for prevention and rehabilitation programs. In Germany no guidelines have been developed that focus on patients with multiple chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Benefits of physical activity (PA) and exercise in NCDs have been proven, but most interventions focus on single conditions. The evaluation of the effectiveness, efficiency and safety of PA programs in patients suffering from multiple NCDs and the feasibility of the implementation within the health care service remain open research questions.MethodsThe multi-site randomized controlled pragmatic trial includes 320 sedentary subjects with at least two of the following NCDs, either manifested or in a pre-stage with evident risk factors: Cardio-vascular disease, Diabetes mellitus type 2, knee/ hip osteoarthritis and obesity. Participants will be recruited from general practitioners and medical specialists and randomized to standard care of a statutory health insurance or MultiPill-Exercise. Standard care includes a choice of one or a maximum of two 8- to 12-week health programs, including nutrition, exercise, relaxation or special disease management programs. MultiPill-Exercise is based on the bio-psycho-social health model, considering a person-oriented perspective in light of given individual characteristics and context factors. The 24-weeks intervention focuses on aerobic and strengthening exercises in line with the WHO PA recommendations. Psychological and pedagogical elements along with behavior change techniques are implemented to ease the initiation and maintenance of exercise participation and lifestyle change, including nutrition. Primary outcome will be short- and long-term PA measured with the European Health Interview Survey-Physical Activity Questionnaire (EHIS-PAQ). Secondly, the effectiveness of the program on generic, disease specific, economic, and exercise behavioral parameters, as well as program adherence and safety will be evaluated.DiscussionResults of this trial evaluate the PA intervention program in people with multiple NCDs in a real-life scenario. It will serve as a proof of concept with the opportunity of translation into routine practice. This approach, as a multi-site RCT with its rigorous methods and standardized operating procedures for the conduction of the intervention, will allow valid conclusions for the implementation of PA interventions in people with multimorbidity.Trial registrationThe trial was registered at www.drks.de (ID: DRKS00025033) on 30th September 2021.

Physical Activity Level and Its Barriers among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Qassim Province, Saudi Arabia

Background: Diabetes mellitus is the most common chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide with rapidly growing prevalence. World health organization announced that physical inactivity is one of the top 10 global principle causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. On the other hand, physical activity is well known to be cornerstone domain for managing diabetes mellitus.&#x0D; Objectives: To estimate the physical activity level among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Qassim province and to explore its common barriers.&#x0D; Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among type 2 diabetic patients who attended chronic diseases clinics of 10 primary health care centers in Buraidah city during 2021. We used two validated self-administrated questionnaires which were the global physical activity questionnaire (WHO) and barriers to being active quiz (CDC).&#x0D; Results: We surveyed 357 type 2 diabetic patients. While majority of patients (90%) recognized the importance of physical activity for body health, only 29% of the participants met WHO recommendations for physical activity. Males and females had slight difference in their activity level, 72% and 69% respectively. Top reported barriers of physical activity were lack of willpower, lack of resources and lack of energy. The most common reported domain of physical activity was recreational activity.&#x0D; Conclusion: Type 2 diabetic patients in Qassim province have low physical activity level. We recommend more focus on physical activity by all diabetic care professionals. Further in-depth studies to further evaluate prevalence and other relevant factors are suggested.

Physical inactivity level and lipid profile in traditional communities in the Legal Amazon: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe practice of regular physical activity can alter the lipid profile in populations according to diverse demographic characteristics.ObjectiveTo evaluate the association of physical inactivity with the lipid profile among vulnerable populations.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 349 vulnerable individuals from Tocantins state, northern Brazil. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire 7 Day short form was used to measure self-reported physical activity levels. Venous blood samples were drawn to evaluate lipid profile. Logistic regression adjusted by the socioeconomic variables was used to analyse the effects of physical inactivity on the lipidic profile. The level of significance was 5% and Stata® (StataCorp, LC) version 11 was used.ResultsWe observe an inverse relationship between physical inactivity and HDL-C—that is, those who were sedentary or below the WHO Recommendations for physical activity were at 2.6 greater odds (IC95% 1.21, 5.67; p = 0.015) of having a lower HDL compared with those meeting or exceeding WHO physical activity recommendations.ConclusionOn the vulnerable populations studied, the insufficiently active or sedentary individuals (called the physical inactivity individuals) have more risk of the altered HDL-C.