The determinants of participation in physical activity in malaysia

How do individuals rate their health compared to others? findings based on a nationally representative sample in Germany

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to explore the determinants of health comparisons (i.e., how individuals rate their health compared to other individuals in their age bracket) in the general adult population (total sample and in different age groups).

METHODS

Data were used from the general adult population in Germany (wave 46, n = 3,876 individuals; November 2021 to January 2022), based on the GESIS panel, which is a probability-based mixed-mode panel. Health comparisons were used as outcome measure. Socioeconomic, lifestyle-related and health-related determinants were included in regression analysis. Robustness checks were conducted.

RESULTS

Regressions showed that more favorable health comparisons were associated with being male (among individuals up to 39 years), higher age (among the total sample), higher education (among the total sample and individuals up to 39 years), higher income (among the total sample and individuals aged 40 to 64 years), not "being married, and living together with a spouse" (among the total sample), never eating meat (among the total sample, individuals up to 39 years and particularly individuals aged 40 to 64 years), drinking alcohol (among the total sample, individuals aged 40 to 64 years and individuals aged 65 years and over), a higher frequency of sports activities (all groups) and a higher satisfaction with health (also in all groups).

CONCLUSION

In addition to the evident link between health satisfaction and health comparisons, regression analysis revealed that certain socioeconomic factors, such as a higher income level, along with positive lifestyle-related factors - especially among middle-aged individuals - were significantly associated with more positive health comparisons. This knowledge is required in order to support individuals at risk for negative health comparisons. This is important because negative health comparisons can contribute to poor well-being and poor health outcomes.

A comparison of low and high dose of moderate intensity aerobic exercise on heart rate recovery of the sedentary adults: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Heart rate recovery (HRR) has been used as a prognostication marker of health. A slower drop in HRR is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and all-cause mortality. Since aerobic exercise has been shown to have favorable effects on HRR, we aimed to compare the effects of two different aerobic exercise doses on HRR among a sedentary adult population.

METHODS

A pragmatic randomised controlled trial was conducted on 29 healthy sedentary adults (seven males and 22 females) in a 12-week exercise program. They were randomly assigned to group A (75 min/week, N.=15) or group B (150 min/week, N.=14) of moderate intensity aerobic exercise groups. HRR at 1-minute (HRR1), HRR at 2-minute (HRR2), and peak oxygen uptake (VO<inf>2peak</inf>) were measured pre- and post-intervention.

RESULTS

The improvements of HRR1 and HRR2 were seen in both groups but was only significant (P<0.05) for group A with HRR1, -4.07 bpm (post 24.47±6.42 - pre 20.40±5.51, P=0.018) and HHR2, -3.93 bpm (post 43.40±13.61 - pre 39.47±10.68, P=0.046). Group B showed increment of HRR1, -1.14 bpm (post 21.14±5.35 - pre 20.00±6.30, P=0.286) and HRR2, -2.5 bpm, (post 39.36±8.01 - pre 36.86±9.57, P=0.221). Improvement of the VO<inf>2peak</inf> was only significant in group B with an increment of 1.52±2.61 (P=0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our study suggests that improvements in heart rate recovery (HRR1 and HRR2) among sedentary healthy adults can be achieved by engaging in moderate intensity exercise at a dose lower than the current recommended guidelines. The lower dose seems to be more attainable and may encourage exercise compliance. Future studies should further explore the effects of different exercise volumes on HRR in a larger sample size and also by controlling for BMI or gender.

Physical Activity among Rural Residents in Eastern, Central, and Western Provinces of China: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Physical activity (PA) in which physical exercise (PE) is an important component is probably the most important intervention for preventing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). However, few studies on PA and PE of rural residents in China were reported. This study conducted the first population-based cross-sectional survey in three provinces of China in 2021 that examined both PA and PE as well as the associated factors of rural residents. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-S) was used, and a total of 3780 rural residents were surveyed. The result showed that 22.2% of the rural residents were physical inactivity and rural residents reporting practice of PE was 54.4%. Binary logistic regression analyses showed that being female, people aged between 15 to 34 years or 60 years old and above, employees of governmental departments/retirees, school students, the unemployed, and people with NCDs were risk factors of PA while ethnic minority groups, smoking, and alcohol consumption were risk factors of PE. Health promotion programme aiming at increasing people's PA in rural China is urgently needed, and it should focus on the population groups of the female, people aged 60 years and above, school students, the unemployed, and people with NCDs.

Can the association between hypertension and physical activity be moderated by age?

Objectives

Physical inactivity, hypertension and non-communicable diseases are major public concerns across the globe. To our knowledge, there is a lack of research that has investigated the moderating effect of age on the relationship between hypertension and physical activity in developing countries. This study had two objectives: (1) investigating hypertension and sociodemographic factors associated with physical activity and (2) investigating whether age moderates the relationship between hypertension and physical activity.

Methods

Nationally representative data of Malaysia were used to generate cross-sectional evidence. The sample size was 2156 respondents. An ordered probit regression was utilized to assess factors associated with the practice of physical activity.

Results

Respondents aged 40-49 years with hypertension were 7.3% less likely to participate in high-level physical activity when compared to those without hypertension. The probability of having a low level of physical activity was 12.3% higher among hypertensive patients aged ≥60. Males, married individuals, less-educated adults, low-income earners, and individuals who were aware of their BMI, had a higher tendency to indulge in a highly active lifestyle than others.

Conclusion

The effect of hypertension on physical activity was moderated by age. Factors influencing physical activity levels among adults were income, gender, marital status, education, employment status, and BMI awareness.

Status of Workers' Health Behavior and the Association between Occupational Characteristics and Health Behavior

This study investigated differences in unhealthy lifestyle behaviors (ULBs) between workers and nonworkers and demonstrated the association of ULBs with occupational characteristics among workers. This cross-sectional study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2019. For sociodemographic data, chi-squared tests were used to analyze categorical variables. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for ULBs were estimated using Poisson regression models after adjusting for age, sex, educational level, and household income. The variables used were current smoking status, heavy drinking, and physical inactivity. Workers were associated with an increased risk of current smoking (adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.48, 95%CI = 1.41-1.56), heavy drinking (aOR = 1.79, 95%CI = 1.68-1.90), and physical inactivity (aOR = 1.07, 95%CI = 1.04-1.11) compared with nonworkers. Among workers, the differential risks of ULB according to occupational characteristics were as follows: skilled manual workers, self-employed workers, and workers working >40 h/week were at a higher risk of engaging in all ULBs than those in other occupational categories, paid workers, and workers working ≤40 h/week, respectively. Workers showed a higher risk of ULBs than nonworkers. The risk of ULBs differed according to occupational characteristics, highlighting the need for additional studies and detailed occupational health management.

Socio-demographic factors and healthy lifestyle behaviours among Malaysian adults: National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019

This study aimed to investigate the association between socio-demographic factors and designated healthy lifestyle behaviours in a nationally-representative sample of Malaysian adults aged 18 years and above. Secondary data involving 7388 participants aged 18-96 years from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019, a national cross-sectional survey, was used in this study. A healthy lifestyle score (0-5 points) was calculated based on five modifiable lifestyle factors: non-smoker, body mass index < 25 kg/m², physically active, moderate (or less) alcohol intake, and daily consumption of ≥ 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. Associations between socio-demographic factors and healthy lifestyle behaviours were examined using multinomial logistic regression adjusted for sampling design. About 30.6% of the participants met at least four out of the five healthy lifestyle factors. In multinomial model, subjects who were female (aOR = 3.26, 95%CI = 2.58, 4.12), of Chinese (aOR = 2.31, 95%CI = 1.62, 3.30 or other ethnicity (aOR = 1.44, 95%CI = 1.05, 1.98), and aged 18-30 years (aOR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.12, 2.71) showed significant association with achieving healthy lifestyle compared to male, Malay and ≥ 61 years old as reference categories. Our results indicated that gender, age and ethnicity associated with healthy lifestyle behaviours. Information on the influence of socio-demographic factors on the prevalence of healthy lifestyles will facilitate the development of effective intervention strategies to improve the adaptation of healthy lifestyle practices.

Mind-Body Health Benefits of Traditional Chinese Qigong on Women: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Most women live with an inactive lifestyle, which suggests a need for preference-based choices to promote their participation in physical activity. This systematic review synthesized key findings on the health benefits of Qigong among women. We conducted a systematic search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Qigong among women according to the PRISMA guidelines using the following databases from their inception through March 2021: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and US National Library of Medicine. The risk of bias was examined using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trials. Altogether, 18 RCTs were included for final review. Results showed that Qigong was a feasible exercise in improving health outcomes, particularly depressive symptoms (63% of trials), quality of life (43%), and fatigue (29%), among general women, intimate partner violence survivors, and women with chronic conditions (e.g., breast cancer patients or survivors). Almost 90% (7/8) of trials reported high adherence rates ranging from 73 to 95% for supervised group training and 63 to 80% for home self-practice. Thus far, there was no evidence of serious adverse effects from performing Qigong. For the risk of bias across trials, a lack of allocation concealment (72% of trials), no blinding of participants and personnel (67%), and incomplete outcome data (67%) were the major sources. In summary, Qigong is a safe, feasible, and beneficial exercise for general women, abused sufferers, and health-compromised women. However, given the potential risk of bias found in many studies, improved rigor of study design in future trials will be imperatively required.

Goal content and attitudes toward physical activity among primary school students during COVID-19 conditional movement control order

This study examined primary school students’ goal content and attitudes toward physical activity during COVID-19 Conditional Movement Control Order . The participants were 312 students comprising 149 males and 163 females aged 11 and 12 years old from 3 primary schools in Sarawak, Malaysia. Participants were administered the Malay version of the Goal Content for Exercise Questionnaire Malay version (GCEQ; Chai et al., 2019) and Malay version of the Attitudes toward Physical Activity Scale (M-APAS; Jeswenny, 2019). The independent sample t-test revealed that there was a significant difference between gender for goal content in social affiliation, t(310) = -2.18, p = 0.030, and age groups for skill development, t(310) = 2.35, p = 0.019. In addition, there was a significant difference in learning for attitudes between gender, p = 0.034, and age groups, p = 0.035. Pearson correlation revealed a significant positive correlation between goal content variables and attitude variables ranging from a very weak correlation (r = 0.13, p = 0.05) to moderate correlation (r = 0.57, p = 0.01). These results suggest that sustainable interventions that integrate goal content and attitudes can improve long-lasting positive participation towards physical activity and promote a healthy attitude towards healthy living.

F. Farah N, Mohd Amin H, Hanafiah H, Shamsulkamar NS. Relationship between Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study among Low-Income Housewives in Kuala Lumpur

Cardiovascular disease is a significant public health concern worldwide, including in Malaysia. Various attempts have been made to resolve this issue. One of the most important methods of controlling cardiovascular risk factors is physical exercise. However, today’s women, especially housewives, are often identified by a lack of physical activity. This is alarming to society, as cardiovascular disease can affect the quality of their life. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular risk factors among low-income housewives in Kuala Lumpur. A total of 63 housewives participated in this cross-sectional study. All participating housewives were asked to fill out a sociodemographic questionnaire and the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). To evaluate cardiovascular risk factors, anthropometric measurements and blood samples were taken. Findings showed that an average of 70.5 ± 232.4 min/week was spent on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), which indicated a low level of physical activity. Data showed that 90.5% of the subjects had low physical activity, 6.3% were moderate, and 3.2% were considered as having a high level of physical activity. For body mass index (BMI), 58.7% of the respondents were obese, 28.6% were overweight (29.10 ± 5.67 kg m^–2), and 81.0% of subjects had a waist circumference (WC) value above the normal range (92.74 ± 16.40 cm). A two-way ANOVA test revealed significant mean differences between systolic blood pressure (mm/Hg) and age groups (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, there was a significant association between MVPA and cardiovascular risk factors using negative binomial regression (p < 0.01). The findings of this study highlight the need for health promotional programs to raise awareness, educate, and engage low-income housewives in lifestyle-enhancing behaviors.

Physical Inactivity among Ghanaians in Ghana and Ghanaian Migrants in Europe

PURPOSE

There is a paucity of data on physical activity (PA) among migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, yet physical inactivity is a key risk factor for noncommunicable diseases. We examined the levels of physical inactivity and its determinants among Ghanaians in different geographical locations.

METHODS

We used the Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants data of Ghanaian adults (n = 4760) age 25-70 yr in rural and urban Ghana and three European cities (Amsterdam, London, and Berlin). Using total physical activity metabolic equivalent of task, physical inactivity was defined as total physical activity metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week less than 600. Logistic regression was used to examine the differences in the levels and the determinants of physical inactivity across sites.

RESULTS

Physical inactivity was higher among Ghanaian migrants (14.6% in Amsterdam, 24.1% in Berlin, and 36.6% in London) and urban Ghanaians (29.0%) compared with rural Ghanaians (11.2%). After adjustment for covariates (age, sex, education, health status, smoking status, body mass index, and social network) using rural Ghanaians as the comparator group, the odds ratios for physical inactivity in men ranged from 3.67 (95% confidence interval, 2.19-6.16) in urban Ghanaians to 10.37 (5.96-18.02) in London Ghanaians, and from 3.27 (2.46-4.35) in urban Ghanaians to 4.41 (3.12-6.22) in London Ghanaians in women. Migrants in London and Berlin had higher odds of physical inactivity compared with Amsterdam. Increased age, university education, and overweight/obesity were positively associated with physical inactivity, whereas social support was inversely associated with physical inactivity with variability across sites.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate high prevalence of physical inactivity among Ghanaians in all sites, particularly among Ghanaians in Europe. Hence, there is the need to take local context into account to improve PA.

Rate of achievement of therapeutic outcomes and factors associated with control of non-communicable diseases in rural east Malaysia: implications for policy and practice

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are an increasing problem worldwide, including in Malaysia. National surveys have been performed by the government but had poor coverage in east Malaysia, particularly in rural regions. This study aimed to describe the achievement of target therapeutic outcomes in the control of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HPT), and dyslipidemia (DLP) among diabetic patients in rural east Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among DM patients who visited the NCDs clinic in Lundu Hospital, Sarawak, Malaysia, from Jan to March 2016. In total, 214 patients (male, 37.9%; female, 62.1%) were recruited using a systemic sampling method. Multiple logistic regression models were applied to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and confidence interval (CI) for the target therapeutic achievement in the control of DM, HPT, and DLP. Compared to the national average, therapeutic target achievement in Lundu was higher for DM (43.0% vs. 23.8%), equal for DLP (35.8% vs. 37.8%) but lower for HPT (30.9% vs. 47.9%). DM patients who had at least yearly HbA1c monitoring (AOR 2.30, 95% CI 1.04–5.06, P = 0.039), and those 58.7 years or older (AOR 2.50, 95% CI 1.32–4.74, P = 0.005) were more likely to achieve the therapeutic target for DM. Health promotion and public education regarding HPT needs to be emphasized in rural Malaysia. HbA1c monitoring at least once a year was one of the important factors associated with achieving DM control in rural east Malaysia. Accessibility to HbA1c tests and monitoring should be ensured for diabetic patients.

Physical exercise among radiologists in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

Background

The practice of clinical radiology has become more sedentary in the era of the Picture Archiving and Communication System. Physical inactivity is a well-known risk factor for various chronic diseases. This study aimed to determine the frequency and pattern of physical exercises among radiologists in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and the association between physical exercises and the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms.

Methods

An online survey was sent to radiologists in all hospitals (academic, public, and private) in the major cities of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. It covered information about demographic characteristics and the frequency and pattern of physical exercises. It also included an evaluation of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. This survey of 263 radiologists was conducted in April 2019. The study outcome was the presence of disabling musculoskeletal symptoms in any body region which restricted the performance of normal activities within the last 12 months. The study results were analyzed descriptively using the Chi-square test.

Results

The survey was completed by 198 participants (111 men and 87 women) with a response rate of 75.3%. Most participants (71.2%) were less than 40 years. Eighty-three men (74.8%) did a physical exercise at least weekly, compared to 45 (51.7%) women. Men were more likely to engage in various physical exercises than women. Overall, 60.9% of participants who did not do any physical exercise regularly (less than monthly) reported having disabling neck pain. This figure was found lower among participants who did physical exercises monthly (45.8%) or at least weekly (32.8%). A similar pattern was observed with shoulder pain, with 45.7% found in participants who did not exercise and only 25.8% in those engaging in physical activities at least weekly.

Conclusions

Physical inactivity is common among radiologists, especially female ones, in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The physical inactivity was significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal symptoms. Gender-specific health promotion programs are needed to mitigate the negative health outcomes due to the sedentary nature of the radiology current practice.

Burden of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus on Work Productivity and Daily Living Activity: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Malaysian Multi-Ethnic Cohort

Objectives

This study aims to assess the self-reported work productivity and activity daily living (ADL) impairment among Malaysian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to examine their associated factors.

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study included 167 SLE patients (21 males, 146 females; mean age 38.2±9.8 years; range, 20 to 60 years) recruited from the outpatient Rheumatology and Nephrology clinics. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to record patients' socio- demographics (age, sex, ethnicity, marital status, and occupation) and SLE disease characteristics (system involvement, age onset, and presence of organ damage). Disease activity was assessed using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index-2000 (SLEDAI-2K). Short form 36 (SF-36) was used to determine health-related quality of life (HRQoL) while Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire was used to assess the four domains of absenteeism, presenteeism, overall work productivity, and non-work related ADL impairment. Univariate analyses and multivariable regression analysis examined the association of demographic variables, SLE disease characteristics, and activity with reduced HRQoL and WPAI scores.

Results

The majority of the patients were Malays (59.3%), followed by Chinese (34.7%) and Indian (3.6%) patients. More than two-thirds of the patients reported some degree of impairment in their work productivity and ADL due to the disease. The absenteeism rate was 10.4% in the past one week and their indirect costs were 2,875.17 Malaysian ringgits (US $701.22) in the past seven days. Significant predictors of higher work productivity and ADL impairment scores were higher disease activity, more frequent SLE flares, lupus nephritis, and hematological involvement of SLE. Patients with higher work productivity and ADL impairment scores were also strongly associated with poor QoL. No ethnic disparities of work productivity and ADL impairment were found.

Conclusion

Systemic lupus erythematosus significantly affected the overall productivity in work and non-work related activity in our Malaysian multi-ethnic cohort and both impairments were significantly associated with poor QoL.

Gender differences in related influential factors of regular exercise behavior among people in Taiwan in 2007: A cross-sectional study

Purpose

The purpose was to explore the exercise behavior of the Taiwanese population during leisure time and to examine the gender differences in related influential factors.

Methods

The Leisure Time and Sport Questionnaire (LTSQ) conducted by the Academia Sinica in 2007 was used for analysis. Participants were drawn from the Taiwanese population aged over 18 years old. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to test the association between the frequency of exercise and related factors in all the participants, male, and female participants, respectively.

Results

In the total 2,147 participants, 47.8% reported they regularly exercised, 34.1% irregularly exercised, and 18.1% never exercised. There were no significant gender differences in the frequency of exercise, but a significant gender difference was found in the types of exercise most often practiced. Participants in one of following conditions, over 65 and under 40 years old, living in the city, having higher education levels, having a spouse or partner, enjoying exercise, feeling worthwhile to spend money on exercise, and not having to take care of others, were more likely to be engaged in regular exercise in the total population. The “enjoyment” in exercise was a significant influential factor for both sexes. Women were more likely to exercise regularly if they were aged 40–64 years old compared with those over 65 years old, have lower self-rated health scores, felt it was more worthwhile to spend money on exercise and did not have to care for another, whereas men who have higher education level and did not feel a lack of time were more likely to exercise regularly.

Conclusions

There are gender differences in regular exercise behavior during leisure time and related influential factors among Taiwanese adults. The findings of the present study can be used when designing gender-specific health promotion programs.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Among University Students in Malaysia

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a preventable condition. Targeting those who are at risk of getting this disease is essential.

OBJECTIVE

To examine T2D risk among university students in Malaysia and determine its relationship with socio-demographic characteristics and physical activity.

METHODS

The study was conducted cross-sectionally on 390 students selected using quota sampling method from 13 faculties in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. A short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Finnish Diabetes Risk Score were used to measure the physical activity and T2D risk.

RESULTS

The T2D risk was found to be low (M = 5.23, SD = 3.32) with more than two-third of the student population at the low risk level while a significant proportion of 23.8%, 5.6% and 0.3% having slightly elevated, moderate and high risk respectively. The T2D risk was significantly related to their age (rho = 0.197, p < 0.000), gender (U = 12641, p = 0.011), ethnic group (Χ2 = 18.86, p < 0.000), marital status (Χ2 = 6.597, p = 0.037), residence (U = 10345, p = 0.008), academic year (Χ2 = 14.24, p = 0.007) and physical activity (rho = -0.205, p < 0.000 and Χ2 = 13.515, p = 0.001). Of these, only age (β=0.130) and physical activity (β=-0.159) remained significant in the regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

The findings call for a radical change in the nursing practice to target the amendable factors that are significant in order to prevent the progression of the risk towards type 2 diabetes.

Factors influencing women in physical activity programs in Malaysia

The majority of research on factors associated with women participation in physical activity (PA) has been in developed countries with limited research in developing countries. Few women in Malaysia are active at the recommended levels for health, and activity rates are less than developed countries. Little research has focused specially on physically active Malaysian women and the factors that contribute to them becoming and staying active in PA programs. This lack of knowledge hinders the tailored development and implementation of PA programs to meet their needs. The aim of this study was to identify the factors of participation in PA programs for Malaysian women. The social-ecological model was used to investigate and theme the factors. Focus group discussion was conducted with participants in six PA programs targeted specifically to women. Thirty-seven women were involved in the focus group discussion, with ages ranging from 19 to 82 years. Inductive and deductive content analysis was conducted from verbatim transcripts using NVivo. Inductive content analysis allowed raw data and second-order themes to emerge. Findings revealed social support structures, tailored programs for women, and location were key contributors that encouraged women to participate in these programs. The similarity in contributors between women in non-western and western countries signifies a prime opportunity for bi-lateral relationships to be formed to enable the enhancement of program development relevant to different ethnicities and cultures within or across countries.

Associations between self-reported and objectively measured physical activity and overweight/obesity among adults in Kota Bharu and Penang, Malaysia

BACKGROUND

For the past decades, Malaysia has seen an increased prevalence of overweight and obesity which leads to significant health threats. Physical activity is beneficial in maintaining healthy body weight. The objective of this study was to measure physical activity of adults in Malaysia using objective measurement (accelerometer) and self-reported methods, as well as to determine their associations with (body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) measurements.

METHODS

Four-hundred and ninety Malaysian adults (n = 490) aged 20 to 65 years old participated in this cross-sectional study. Their body weight, height, and WC measurements were measured according to standard procedures. Physical activity was assessed objectively with accelerometers for five to seven consecutive days. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to estimate the amount of time spent on various domains of physical activity. Mixed models were used to determine the associations between physical activity variables and both BMI and WC.

RESULTS

The mean value of objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was 13.5 min per day, in which male participants recorded a significantly higher amount of time compared to females. On the other hand, the mean self-reported total physical activity was 380 min per week; male participants reported a significantly higher amount of time on physical activity in the occupation/work and leisure/recreation domains while female participants spent significantly more time in the domestic/household chores domain. We also observed that the mean values of objectively measured total MVPA, self-reported time spent on walking for leisure/recreation, and total time amount of time spent on MVPA for leisure/recreation were significantly higher among participants with BMI of less than 25 kg/m2. The final statistical model yielded a significant negative association between objectively measured total MVPA and BMI, but not with WC measurement. No significant association was reported between self-reported total physical activity with BMI and WC measurement.

CONCLUSIONS

Objectively measured MVPA was inversely associated with BMI, but not WC measurement. No significant association was observed between self-reported total physical activity and physical activity time measures across domains with both BMI and WC measurement.

Psychometric properties of the Malay version of the self-efficacy for exercise scale

Background

The present study was aimed at validating the Malay-language version of the Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale (SEE-M) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).

Methods

Data were collected from undergraduate students at all campuses of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. A total of 1,605 students completed the SEE-M (female: 71.5%, male: 28.5%), with the mean age of 20.3 years (SD = 1.5). Perceived self-efficacy was assessed with the 18-item SEE-M. Standard forward–backward translation was performed to translate the English version of the Efficacy for Exercise Scale (SEE) into the Malay version (SEE-M).

Results

The 2 initial measurement models tested (1-factor and 3-factor models) did not result in a good fit to the data. Subsequent investigation of the CFA results recommended some modifications, including adding correlations between the item residuals within the same latent variable. These modifications resulted in good fit indices for the 1-factor model (RMSEA = .059, CFI = .939, TLI = .922, SRMR = .049) and the 3-factor model (RMSEA = .066, CFI = .924, TLI = .903, SRMR = .051). The final measurement models comprised all 18 SEE-M items, which had significant factor loadings of more than .40. The test-retest results indicated that the SEE-M was stable, with an intra-class correlation of .99. The composite reliability was .886 for the 1-factor model and .670–.854 for the 3-factor model.

Conclusions

The translated version of the SEE-M was valid and reliable for assessing the level of self-efficacy for exercise among university students in Malaysia.

Perspective

This study examining the psychometric properties of the SEE scale based on CFA was the first to assess 2 proposed models (1-factor and 3-factor models) simultaneously and to translate the original, English-language SEE into Malay.

Work disability in a multi-ethnic Malaysian systemic lupus erythematosus cohort: A cross-sectional study

AIM

To determine the prevalence of work disability (WD) among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its associated factors.

METHOD

This was a cross-sectional study involving SLE patients aged 18-56 years from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC). Employment history was obtained from clinical interviews. WD was defined as unemployment, interruption of employment or premature cessation of employment due to SLE at any time after the diagnosis. SLE disease characteristics, presence of organ damage and Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) flare index were determined from the medical records. Self-reported quality of life (QoL) was performed using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36). Demographic factors, disease characteristics, and QoL were compared between patients with and without WD using statistical analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 215 patients were recruited and the majority were Malay (60.5%), followed by Chinese (33.5%), Indian (4.5%) and others (n = 4, 1.9%). The prevalence of WD was 43.2% (n = 93) with 22.3% (n = 48) patients were unemployed at the time of study. Over half the patients with WD (n = 51, 54.8%) had onset of disability at <5 years from diagnosis. Patients with WD had significantly lower health-related QoL. The independent factors associated with WD were SLEDAI score at diagnosis, frequency of flare, Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics score, being married, had lower education and lupus nephritis.

CONCLUSION

We found a high rate of WD in patients with SLE and it was significantly associated with SLE-related factors, in particular higher disease activity, presence of renal involvement and organ damage.

Effect of physical activity on fasting blood glucose and lipid profile among low income housewives in the MyBFF@home study

BACKGROUND

Regular physical activity has always been strongly recommended for good cardiovascular health. This study aimed to determine the effect of physical activity on fasting blood glucose and lipid profile among low income housewives in Klang Valley.

METHODS

Data of 328 eligible housewives who participated in the MyBFF@Home study was used. Intervention group of 169 subjects were provided with an intervention package which includes physical activity (brisk walking, dumbbell exercise, physical activity diary, group exercise) and 159 subjects in control group received various health seminars. Physical activity level was assessed using short-International Physical Activity Questionnaire. The physical activity level was then re-categorized into 4 categories (active intervention, inactive intervention, active control and inactive control). Physical activity, blood glucose and lipid profile were measured at baseline, 3rd month and 6th month of the study. General Linear Model was used to determine the effect of physical activity on glucose and lipid profile.

RESULTS

At the 6th month, there were 99 subjects in the intervention and 79 control group who had complete data for physical activity. There was no difference on the effect of physical activity on the glucose level and lipid profile except for the Triglycerides level. Both intervention and control groups showed reduction of physical activity level over time.

CONCLUSION

The effect of physical activity on blood glucose and lipid profile could not be demonstrated possibly due to physical activity in both intervention and control groups showed decreasing trend over time.

Demographic and lifestyle determinants of time spent in physical activity among Malaysian adolescents

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The objective of the present study is to examine factors affecting time spent in physical activity among adolescents in Malaysia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A nationally representative data of adolescents that consists of 25399 respondents is used. The demographic (age, gender, education) and lifestyle (fruits and vegetables consumption, carbonated soft drink consumption, cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, sex behaviour, participation in physical education class, obesity) determinants of physical activity are assessed using binomial regression.

RESULTS

The results show that age is negatively associated with time spent in physical activity. However, being male and education levels are positively related to time spent in physical activity. Having unhealthy lifestyle and being obese are associated with low levels of physical activity. Physical education seems to promote participation in physical activity.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, demographic and lifestyle factors play an important role in determining levels of physical activity among adolescents. In order to reduce the prevalence of physically inactive adolescents, policy makers should focus primarily on late adolescents, females, adolescents who engage in unhealthy lifestyle and seldom attend physical education classes, as well as obese adolescents.

Physical activity level and fall risk among community-dwelling older adults

[Purpose] To find the physical activity level and fall risk among the community-dwelling Malaysian older adults and determine the correlation between them. [Subjects and Methods] A cross-sectional study was conducted in which, the physical activity level was evaluated using the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity questionnaire and fall risk with Fall Risk Assessment Tool. Subjects recruited were 132 community-dwelling Malaysian older adults using the convenience sampling method. [Results] The majority of the participants were under the category of under-active regular light-activities and most of them reported low fall risk. The statistical analysis using Fisher’s exact test did not show a significant correlation between physical activity level and fall risk. [Conclusion] The majority of community-dwelling Malaysian older adults are performing some form of physical activity and in low fall risk category. But this study did not find any significant correlation between physical activity level and fall risk among community-dwelling older adults in Malaysia.

Factors associated with participation in physical activity among adolescents in Malaysia

BACKGROUND

The rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has become a serious public health issue. Among the multi-factorial drivers behind NCDs are modifiable health risk factors, most notably, physical inactivity.

OBJECTIVE

In response to the nearly global policy priority of encouraging regular participation in physical activity, the objective of the present study is to examine the factors that determine participation in physical activity among Malaysian adolescents.

METHODS

Nationally representative data consisting of a large sample size was used. A censored regression model was developed to estimate the likelihood of participation and time spent on physical activity.

RESULTS

There are significant relationships between physical activity and gender, ethnicity, self-rated academic performance, maternal education, household size and time spent on physical education.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides new insights into the factors affecting physical activity participation among adolescents. Specifically, self-rated excellent academic performance, household size and physical education can increase the likelihood of being physically active. Evidence of the present study implies that policy makers should pay special attention to females, Chinese, adolescents with self-rated poor academic performance and adolescents who have low maternal education.

Factors affecting participation decision and amount of physical activity among urban dwellers in Malaysia

OBJECTIVES

The rapid rise in the prevalence of physical inactivity-related diseases has become a serious public health issue worldwide. The objective of the present study is to examine the factors affecting participation in physical activity among urban dwellers in Malaysia.

STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study measures physical activity using a rigorous regression model.

METHODS

Data are obtained from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2011 (NHMS 2011). A lognormal hurdle model is used to analyse the participation decision and the amount decision of physical activity.

RESULTS

The results show that income, gender, ethnicity, marital status and employment status are significantly associated with participation decision and amount decision. However, age, insurance and self-rated health only affect participation decision, whereas family size, education and smoking only affect amount decision.

CONCLUSIONS

It can, thus, be concluded that sociodemographic, insurance, lifestyle and health factors play an important role in determining physical activity behaviour among urban dwellers. When formulating policies, special attention must be paid to these factors.