Self-reported physical activity status among adolescents in Debre Birhan town, Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Regular physical activity reduces the risk of ischaemic heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and breast and colon cancer. But, adolescents are insufficiently physically active. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess self- reported physical activity status and associated factors among adolescents in Debre Birhan town, Ethiopia. METHODS: School based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 20 to May 10/2019 in Debre Berhan town Secondary schools. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 580 study participants from three secondary schools. Physical activity was assessed using questions adopted from recreation, sport, and leisure-time physical activity assessment section of international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). Adolescents who have done moderate to vigorous exercise for 60 minutes per day for at least three days in the last seven days were categorized as physically active. Descriptive statistics, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was done. Probability value less than 0.05 was used as a cut of point to determined statistically significant association. RESULT: A total of 580 students participated in this study. Less than 1 in 5 (17.2%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 14.13%-20.27%) students were physically active. Male student (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.63, 95%CI = 1.5–4.59), age less than or equal to 16 (AOR: 2.04, 95% CI = 1.12–3.71) and access to sports center (gymnasium) (AOR: 2.09, 95% CI = 1.12–3.89 were positively associated with physical activity. CONCLUSION: Physical activity status was very low. Therefore, the local, regional and national administrators in collaboration with sport and health offices administrators should make facilities accessible.