Prevalence and Predictors of Physical Inactivity among Adults – A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is detrimental to health. It is a risk factor for noncommunicable diseases. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to find the prevalence and predictors of physical inactivity among adults. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among 374 adults aged 20–50 years. Trained field investigators administered the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Epi Info software for Windows. Logistic regression model was used to study the factors associated with physical inactivity. RESULTS: The prevalence of physical inactivity among the study participants was 52.1%. Females (OR=1.9[1.2-3.1]), literate individuals (OR = 1.8 [1.04–3.2]), and current tobacco users (OR = 2.2 [1.8–4.1]) were significantly more physically inactive; as compared to their counterparts. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly half of the study participants were physically inactive, according to the World Health Organization guidelines. This highlights the need for strengthening the existing interventions for promoting physical activity among adults.