Physical activity in German adults: Types, settings, and patterns of association by cardiovascular risk status

Abstract

Little is known about physical activity in adults at differing risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, we describe and compare the physical activity and patterns of association with physical activity by CVD risk status based on data from computer-assisted telephone interviews of 2002 men and women aged 50Á70 years in Germany. Physical activity preferences, settings, and health-related attitudes were assessed and groups were compared using chi-square and nonparametric tests. Stratified multi-variable regression models identified factors associated with regular physical activity (at least once a week for 6 months). The proportion of respondents engaging in regular physical activity ranged from 53.8% to 60.6% across the groups (P 00.08). Respondents with and without CVD/CVD risk factors varied modestly regarding the type and settings for physical activity. However, models stratified by CVD risk demonstrated different patterns of association with regular physical activity. Socioeconomic status, for example, was important for respondents with CVD-related risk factors (odds ratio 02.30; 95%CI: 1.38 to 3.85 for high vs. low socioeconomic status), while internal health locus of control and other attitudes towards physical activity were important for respondents with CVD (odds ratio 01.20; 95%CI: 1.06 to 1.35 per unit increase at subscale score). Our data provide opportunities for developing physical activity interventions targeted at individuals with differing cardiovascular risk.

Different Types of Physical Activity and Fitness and Health in Adults: An 18-Year Longitudinal Study

“…SES and BMI turned out to be the most meaningful predictors of HS besides age. The influence of SES on HS is in line with other studies, showing a health benefit from higher SES [ 40 , 41 ] but there are also studies who lack finding a consistent pattern of association between SES and health outcomes [ 42 ]. Lower values for PA and PF for residents with lower SES have been reported in numerous studies with adults [ 40 ] as well as adolescents [ 43 , 44 ].…”

The relationship between physical activity, fitness, physical complaints and BMI in German adults – results of a longitudinal study

“…SES showed associations with initial levels of PF, PC and BMI, but not with their trajectories. This is consistent to Huy, Steindorf, Litaker, Thiel, and Diehm (2011), who also did not find a consistent pattern of association between SES and LTPA and health, but is contrary to the Minnesota Heart study (Iribarren, Luepker, McGovern, Arnett, & Blackburn, 1997), where a significant interaction between education level and physical activity as well as health parameters was found. However, this study already stated in the 90s that a widening of socioeconomic differences in risk factor trends could not be found.…”