Physical activity on prescription in primary health care: a follow‐up of physical activity level and quality of life

Abstract

To examine whether physical activity on prescription in routine primary care patients would influence physical activity level and quality of life 6 months later. In 2001-2003, 13 Swedish primary health care units took part in an uncontrolled clinical study. If a patient in primary health care needed physical activity preventively or for treatment of a disease and patient-centered motivational counseling found physical activity to be suitable, individualized physical activity could be prescribed. Patients (n=481) of both sexes and all ages [75% women, mean age 50 (12-81)] participated in the study. Self-reported physical activity, readiness to change to a more physically active lifestyle and quality-of-life data were collected through questionnaires. The follow-up rate was 62% at 6 months. Intention-to-treat analysis showed a significant increase (P<0.01) in self-reported physical activity level, the stages of action and maintenance of physical activity as well as quality of life. Physical activity level, stages of change and quality of life increased analogically, indicating that physical activity on prescription may be suitable as a conventional treatment in an ordinary primary health care setting to promote a more physically active lifestyle.

Characteristics of physical activity programs in the Brazilian primary health care system

“…In addition, units do offer events through lectures and courses that can lead to greater awareness and knowledge about the importance of achieving physical activity guidelines for health benefits. As a consequence, it is possible that individuals would feel better prepared and encouraged to engage in additional bouts of physical activity and exercise outside of the referral system and health facilities, thus the role of primary care in increasing physical activity levels would be fulfilled through outreach programs and activities 13,17,36 .…”

“…They occur in accordance with the socioeconomic and cultural differences found in each municipality. Several types of interventions have been utilized including informational lectures, supervised physical activities, and counseling by health professionals 17,18 . International studies have shown a positive relationship between participation in programs to increase physical activity and levels of physical activity, as well as improvements in health conditions of the population 17,19 .…”

“…Several types of interventions have been utilized including informational lectures, supervised physical activities, and counseling by health professionals 17,18 . International studies have shown a positive relationship between participation in programs to increase physical activity and levels of physical activity, as well as improvements in health conditions of the population 17,19 . Much of this evidence on effective community physical activity programs comes from Brazil 20,21,22,23,24 .…”

Altered ventral neck muscle deformation for individuals with whiplash associated disorder compared to healthy controls – A case-control ultrasound study

“…and exercise beyond daily life activities performed over the last 12 months. The answers were combined to calculate the activity index (1 = inactivity, 2 = low activity, 3 = moderate activity, 4 = high activity) (Kallings et al, 2008).…”

Mechanical properties of the trapezius during scapular elevation in people with chronic whiplash associated disorders – A case-control ultrasound speckle tracking analysis

“…Participants also self-reported their level of physical activity (1=inactivity, 4=high activity) (Kallings et al, 2008, Peolsson et al, 2007.…”