physical activity

Considering the high importance of the problem of obesity and its related factors, we aimed to investigate the mediating role of physical activity in the relationship between personality traits and body mass index (BMI) in the participants of the employees’ health cohort study of Iran (EHCSIR) using generalized structural equation modeling (GSEM).

A secondary analysis with cross-sectional approach was conducted on the existing data using multilevel GSEM. The primary data of the cohort was collected from July 2017, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Personality traits were exposure, physical activity was the mediator, and BMI was the outcome. Sex was the stratifying variable. Then, pathways with the largest P values were removed one by one using backward stepwise approach.

The data of a total of 3554 participants of EHCSIR were used. Sex was subjected for grouping the analysis. In males, extroversion (EX) was the only personality trait associated with both physical activity and BMI. In the direct pathway, EX was positively associated with BMI. In the indirect pathway, EX was negatively associated with BMI (P <0.1). The total effect was positive. In females, physical activity was not associated with BMI, and therefore, no indirect pathway was formed from personality traits to BMI (P >0.1).

The role of personality traits in obesity was more dominant in females, while in males, physical activity had a role in obesity. The hypothesized mediation pathway of the study title was not approved in females, and in males, was approved only for EX personality trait.

The Mediterranean diet (MD) and physical activity (PA) are inversely associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

We aimed to determine the correlation between MD, PA, and MetS variables among Iranian adults.

A random sampling method was used across five cities in Iran, with participants selected from healthcare centers. A total of 284 individuals diagnosed with MetS, aged 30 to 59 and over 60 years, participated. The MD and PA were assessed using the MD and Short International PA Questionnaires (Ipaq). The MetS was defined based on international criteria.

Men had significantly higher MetS risk scores than women (P ≤ 0.05, effect size: d = 0.37). Overall, PA was significantly higher in individuals aged 30 - 60 years compared to those over 60 years old (P ≤ 0.001, effect size: d = 0.64), while those over 60 years showed a higher MD score than individuals aged 30 - 60 years (P ≤ 0.001, effect size: d = 0.49). The MetS did not correlate with MD and PA (P > 0.05). However, there was an inverse correlation between MD and light PA (P < 0.05). Finally, our dependent variables were influenced by the city of residence (P < 0.05).

Central obesity and a history of metabolic disorders are the main reasons for the prevalence of MetS in our study. The lower PA levels in older adults, along with the early onset of MetS, highlight the need for social policies that promote a Mediterranean lifestyle. These findings are consistent with existing literature, which suggests that environmental and cultural factors play a role in health outcomes. Further research is required to gain a deeper understanding of this issue. Central obesity and a history of metabolic disorders are the main reasons for the prevalence of MetS in our study. The lower PA levels in older adults, along with the early onset of MetS, highlight the need for social policies that promote a Mediterranean lifestyle. These findings are consistent with existing literature, which suggests that environmental and cultural factors play a role in health outcomes. Further research is required to gain a deeper understanding of this issue.

This study aimed to determine the effect of mothers’ education on improving children’s self-efficacy regarding physical activity.

This descriptive-interventional, quasi-experimental study was performed in Iran during 2021. First, 384 mothers were selected from 5 health centers in Mashhad based on the inclusion criteria. Then, 102 mothers with children aged 6-7 years were chosen using a simple random method and placed in two test (n=51) and control (n=51) groups. The educational program was held based on self-efficacy theory for the test group in five sessions. The data were collected in three stages (before, immediately, and three months later) using a valid researcher-made questionnaire. Eventually, the data were analyzed by SPSS 20 using chi-square, Mann-Whitney, Friedman, and Kruskal-Wallis.

Descriptive statistics demonstrated that demographic variables had a significant relationship with physical activity self-efficacy in the children under study (P<0.05). Regarding the self-efficacy score in the test group, before the educational program, it was 40.8±74.27, and immediately after the intervention and in the follow-up stage, it further increased to 53.9±21.51 and 54.9±31.63, respectively. This increase was statistically significant (P<0.05) with an effect size of 0.53. However, no significant differences were observed in the control group.

The results revealed that an educational program based on self-efficacy theory can be effective in improving children’s physical activity.

Autoimmune blistering diseases (ABDs) such as pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and bullous pemphigoid (BP) are a group of immunological skin disorders, with a complex and multifactorial pathogenesis. However, the limited centralization and standardization of available data have hindered research into the epidemiologic risk factors associated with these diseases.

This cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted, including 228 patients selected from Shahid Faqhihi hospital through the census sampling method. Epidemiological data, such as age, gender, disease duration, dietary habits, physical activity, lifestyle choices, sunlight exposure, and family history, were assessed. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data.

The study included patients with a mean age of 50.3±14.8 years, disease duration of 4.52±5.3 years, and a female predominance (64.5%). The most common disease types were PV (75%), BP (10.5%), and pemphigus foliaceus (8.8%). Most patients reported no consumption of garlic (86.4%), onion (76.8%), tea or coffee (68%), and spicy foods (89%). The results showed high rates of abstaining from alcohol (99.1%), not smoking (87.7%), and not using hair dye (70.2%). Physical activity levels were primarily minimal or less (68%). Almost none of the participants (97.4%) reported exposure to pesticides. Additionally, 43.4% reported sunlight exposure of more than three days a week.

The study revealed a male-to-female ratio of 2:1 among patients, with PV being the most prevalent disease type. Tea and coffee were the most consumed beverages, and a significant proportion of patients reported frequent sunlight exposure and smoking. A comprehensive approach involving lifestyle modifications and individualized care is crucial for managing ABDs effectively.

Behavioral modification programs have improved body composition, dietary behavior (DB), and physical activity (PA). However, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of these programs among overweight high school students in rural areas of Thailand. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of a school-based behavioral modification (SBM) program on these factors among high school students with overweight.

Study Design: 

This study employed a randomized controlled trial.

The study was conducted from November 2022 to May 2023 among overweight high school students. A total of 100 overweight students were randomly assigned to either an intervention (n=50) or a control (n=50) group. The intervention group received an SBM, while the control group received the usual educational program. The chi-square test, independentsamples t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, ANOVA, and Cochran’s Q test were used to analyze data.

Both groups were female (72.0%), with a mean age of 17.03 years. At the follow-up, the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in DB and PA and a reduction in sedentary behavior compared to the control group (P<0.05). Additionally, statistically significant differences were observed between the intervention and control groups regarding biceps (P=0.001), triceps (P=0.031), and waist circumference (P<0.001).

The SBM effectively increased students’ PA, improved DBs, decreased sedentary behavior, and resulted in changes in body composition. These findings indicated that SBM programs are useful for healthcare providers or teachers to promote healthy behaviors among students and can be applied in related research in different contexts and situations.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that has become an increasing concern for adolescents globally.

This study aimed to compare nutritional patterns, including macronutrient intake and levels of physical activity, among adolescents with and without PCOS.

This cross-sectional study involved 238 adolescents with and without PCOS, conducted between February 2021 and October 2021 in Gorgan, Iran, using a simple random sampling method. The standard Nutrition Questionnaire and the validated Physical Activity Questionnaire (AFPAQ) were the two main tools for data collection. To compare macronutrient intake and physical activity levels, statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, the Student's t -test, chi-square, and the Mann-Whitney U test.

The age, education level, and family history of PCOS did not significantly differ between the two groups. However, Body Mass Index (BMI), age at menarche, and menstrual interval and duration were significantly different (P < 0.05). Adolescents with PCOS had a higher BMI (P < 0.001), experienced menarche at a later age (P < 0.09), and had longer intervals between menstrual cycles, showing prolonged amenorrhea (P < 0.001). Affected adolescents had higher intakes of calories, carbohydrates, and fats, while protein consumption and physical activity levels were significantly lower (P < 0.001).

Adolescents with PCOS exhibited higher intakes of calories, carbohydrates, and fats, while their protein consumption and physical activity levels were lower compared to those without the syndrome. Educating adolescents about these dietary and activity levels may be effective in preventing the occurrence of PCOS.

Physical activity plays a pivotal role in enhancing physical health; however, various barriers limit participation in such activities.

This study aimed to analyze the barriers to participation in physical activity associated with the physical health of Rasht citizens while examining age and gender differences.

The research was a cross-sectional study, with a statistical population consisting of 408 individuals (204 men and 204 women) from households covered by Rasht’s comprehensive health centers in 2024. Sampling was conducted using a multi-stage cluster method, and data were collected through the Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale (EBBS). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing independent t-tests and ANOVA.

The results indicated that "physical activity environment" (mean score = 15.8) was the primary barrier, particularly for women and among the 51–65 old age group. "Physical exhaustion" was prominent in the 51–65 age group, while "lack of family encouragement" was identified as the least significant barrier. Gender differences (p = 0.03) and age differences (p < 0.001) were statistically significant.

These findings suggest that women and older individuals face greater barriers, linked to environmental factors, gender roles, and diminished physical capacity. It is recommended that interventions focus on improving sports infrastructure and designing gender- and age-specific programs. This study contributes to understanding barriers within the urban context of Iran and lays the groundwork for health policy development.

Adherence to treatment and regular physical activity in individuals with asthma will culminate in favorable clinical outcomes, including an effective disease management and an improved quality of life.

The present study aimed to determine the physical activity level and association with adherence to treatment and quality of life in individuals with asthma.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 505 individuals referring to the respiratory ward of Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Zanjan, Iran. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using the socio-demographic information form, the International Physical Activity Questionnaires (IPAQ), Modanloo Adherence to Treatment Questionnaire (MATQ), and the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and the Kruskal-Wallis test in SPSS software version 16.

The majority of participants were male (57.2%) with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of 66.35 (15.33) years. The physical activity level of the majority of participants was vigorous (43.4%). The mean (SD) total scores for adherence to treatment and quality of life were 120.83 (8.92) and 35.42 (5.02), respectively. According to the findings, physical activity had no statistically significant association with adherence to treatment (p=0.535) and quality of life (p=0.173).

In the present study, physical activity level was vigorous in asthmatic participants. Adherence to treatment among participants was at a good level, and quality of life was at a moderate level. Therefore, the design of supportive educational interventions is recommended to improve quality of life and promote lifestyle modification in individuals with asthma.

This study aims to assess the anthropometric and health characteristics of foreign students at the Science and Research Branch of Islamic Azad University in Tehran, Iran, during the 2023-2024 period. A total of 400 non-Iranian students participated in this cross-sectional study. Anthropometric measurements, including weight, height, BMI, waist circumference, and body composition, were taken using standardized equipment. Physical activity levels, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and heart rate were also assessed. The results revealed a significant prevalence of overweight and obesity (21.75%), particularly among females (31.93%), and high rates of hypertension and prediabetes. The study found a high proportion of sedentary individuals (70.6%), which is a key contributor to the observed health risks. These findings highlight the importance of addressing obesity-related health issues, particularly in the context of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and their economic impact. This data is crucial for the development of targeted health policies, such as medical tourism and insurance adjustments for individuals at higher health risks. The study concludes that proactive measures are essential to prevent and manage the health conditions prevalent in this population.

Lower limb amputation can significantly affect levels of physical activity and ability to engage in daily sports, often affecting independence. Accordingly, this study investigates the association between physical activity and activities of daily living (ADLs) in humans with lower limb amputation, focusing on the mediating role of level of independence.

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Babylon Rehabilitation Center between August and November 2024. A total of 246 samples were collected using purposive non-probability sampling. The data were collected using validated instruments: The international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ), the Nottingham scale of daily activities, and the Barthel independence index. A data series, including structured interviews, was conducted and analyzed using the Pearson correlation and linear regression in the SPSS software, version 20.

A total of 75.6% of the members had low levels of physical activity, 68.7% had low ADLs, and 77.6% were unable to complete daily tasks. A high-quality relationship was observed between physical activity and daily life (P=0.000). Simple linear regression revealed that independence levels predicted physical activity (P=0.000) and ADLs (P=0.000).

The study highlights the importance of promoting independence as a pathway to improving physical activity levels and functional independence in ADLs.

This study aimed to investigate the discrete and combined effects of 8 weeks of endurance training and curcumin supplementation on the levels of inflammatory markers and pulmonary function in obese girls with a history of coronavirus infection.

This research was conducted by semi-experimental method and clinical trial in the form of pre-test and post-test. 40 obese women were selected randomly and allocated into 4 groups: exercise+curcumin supplement (Curcu+Exe), exercise+placebo (Exe), curcumin supplement (Curcu), and control (Control). The subjects in exercise groups participated in an eight-week aerobic exercise program. The subjects of the supplement groups took three to four capsules every day. The level of blood serum inflammatory indicators was measured using the ELISA kit. The pulmonary function indices were evaluated using a spirometer.

The results of the present study showed that eight weeks of progressive endurance training along with curcumin supplementation in obese girls with a history of corona infection, led to a decrease in inflammatory indicators (IL-6 and TNF-a) and improved pulmonary function indicators in the experimental groups.

Curcumin supplementation along with progressive endurance exercises can lead to the improvement of inflammatory conditions and pulmonary function in obese girls with a history of corona disease. Therefore, these people can improve their body composition and general health through the combination of endurance activity and curcumin supplementation.

Children with developmental disabilities often face barriers to engaging in physical activity (PA), impacting their health and quality of life. Parent-mediated interventions (PMIs) have shown promise to reduce these barriers, but little research explores online PMIs for parents of children with developmental disabilities. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and impact of a multi-site collaborative online parent-mediated PA intervention on stress levels and self-efficacy among parents of children with developmental disabilities over a 12-week period.

Participants (n = 55) were parents of children with developmental disabilities, randomly assigned to intervention (n = 27) or control (n = 28) groups.

Recruitment rate was 58%, with an 80% retention rate. The feasibility of online delivery was demonstrated, allowing participation from various locations. An analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) with parental sex and education level as covariates revealed no significant interaction effect between group and time for parenting self-efficacy score (PSE), F(1, 104) = 0.118, P = 0.732, or PSI, F(1, 104) = 0.196, P = 0.659. The mean PSI difference (pre-post) was -0.38 (CI: -10.57 to 9.80) for the experimental group and 2.64 (CI: -9.61 to 14.91) for the control group, while the mean PSE difference was -4.41 (CI: -29.33 to 20.49) and 4.75 (CI: -23.22 to 32.73), respectively.

Future research should explore the integration of hybrid PMIs in conjunction with qualitative measures to facilitate a deeper understanding of the multifaceted factors influencing parental engagement in PA interventions for children with developmental disabilities.

Students making the transition from high school to university find it difficult to maintain good eating routines/lifestyles and mental health, due to time constraints and stress. The goal of the study was to analyse the correlation between previously mentioned topics.

We included 948 students, aged 18-27, at the Faculty of Medical Sciences in Serbia and the research was conducted in 2020. Chi-square was used for statistical analysis. Modified WHO questionnaire for lifestyle and eating habits was used, as well as standardized questionnaires for anxiety and depression.

Respondents who had more prominent symptoms of depression (moderate or severe) and anxiety had a significantly higher percentage of eating less than three meals a day (47.7%, 35.7%), skipped breakfast (38.6%, 33.5%), consumed alcohol (11.4%, 3.8%), used energy drinks (38.6%, 31.7%), were on some type of diet (36.6%, 30.2%), were not satisfied with their appearance (66.7%, 53%) and not engaging in physical activity (43.2%, 33.1%). Significant predictors for severe depressive and anxiety symptoms were the consumption of alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, satisfaction with personal appearance and physical activity during a day.

The results suggest that some of the eating and lifestyle habits were linked to higher risks of developing depressive or anxiety symptoms.