Factors Associated with Physical Activity among Adult Patients in a Mission Based Teaching Hospital, South West Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Physical inactivity (PI) is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases and contributes significantly to global morbidity. Despite WHO guidelines promoting physical activity (PA), PI remains prevalent, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Aim: This study aimed to determine PA levels and their sociodemographic predictors among adult outpatients in a mission based tertiary hospital, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2021 among 364 consenting adults using systematic random sampling. Data were collected with a validated IPAQ-Short Form questionnaire. PA levels were calculated in MET-minutes/week and categorized as low, moderate, or high. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: Half of the respondents, 182 (50.0%) had low PA levels, while 111(30.5%) and 71(19.5%) had moderate and high levels, respectively. Females were more likely to be physically inactive than males (125(54.1%) vs. 57(42.9%), P<0.001). Younger age (≤39 years), male gender, and lower socioeconomic class were associated with higher PA levels. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of the study population was physically inactive, with sociodemographic factors significantly influencing PA levels. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to promote PA, particularly among women, older adults, and individuals in higher socioeconomic classes. Recommendation: Considering the high prevalence of physical inactivity in this study, the government, along with other stakeholders, should raise awareness of the dangers of physical inactivity to the public through the media.