Physical activity and major non-communicable diseases among physicians in Central Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives:To evaluate levels of physical activity among physicians in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and to study the possible factors affecting physical inactivity. In addition, the study aims to estimate the prevalence of major non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a possible correlation between physical inactivity and major NCDs.Method:A cross-sectional approach was used for this study conducted on 370 randomly-selected outpatient physicians of both genders working at 4 leading healthcare institutions in Riyadh, Kindom of Saudi Arabia between December 2013 and January 2014. Using a modified World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise questionnaire. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21.Results:The findings of the present study demonstrated a prevalence of physical activity among Riyadh physicians (63%), which is higher than the general population (32.4%). The main reason for not engaging in physical activity was lack of time (58.1%) followed by work duties (22.5%). The prevalence of the most frequently reported NCDs (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers) was 21.9%. No significant association between physical inactivity and major NCDs among physicians in our sample was found.Conclusion:The participating physicians are physically active and suffer from a small percentage of the most reported NCDs. The main factor associated with physical inactivity was lack of time. No association was detected between physical inactivity and major NCDs.

Overweight and obesity among adults in the Gulf States: A systematic literature review of correlates of weight, weight‐related behaviours, and interventions

“…Fast food intake and soft drinks consumption were higher among men than women . Another study indicated that most of the nurses who worked shift duty ate more fast food and unhealthy snacks .…”

“…First, the results of the 84 eligible correlate studies are described, followed by the data on the seven intervention studies …”

“…All correlate studies were cross‐sectional, except for one longitudinal study . Half of the studies were performed in Saudi Arabia, and a large number were performed in Kuwait . Approximately 30% of studies involved university students.…”

“…Another study indicated that most of the nurses who worked shift duty ate more fast food and unhealthy snacks . More women than men ate afternoon snacks, and women consumed more of sugar‐sweetened fruit drinks …”

Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Saudi Women Towards Physical Activity, 2017

“…[8,9] Many studies showed that the Saudi population don't practice physical activity either in a sufficient duration or adequate frequency and this could be attributed to ignorance, not having time, lack of facilities and lack of motivation. [10][11][12][13][14] Also, there is a lack in the studies considering physical inactivity in KSA and its complications. [14] This study aimed tostudy the KAP of Saudi women regarding physical activity in KSA.…”