[Physical activity levels in adults living in Bogotá (Colombia): prevalence and associated factors]

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of physical activity levels in adults aged 18 to 65 years in Bogotá city and identify the factors associated with regular physical activity.

Methods: We conducted a population-based, cross-sectional survey in 3,000 adult residents of Bogotá in 2003 who were selected through a multistage probabilistic sample. Physical activity levels were determined using the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Factors associated with regular physical activity were identified by logistic regression models.

Results: The adjusted prevalence of persons undertaking regular physical activity was 36.8%. After adjustment for potential confounders, regular physical activity was more likely in men (odds ratio [OR] = 1.62; 95% CI, 1.31-2.01) and in those whose self-perceived health status was good or very good (OR = 1.87; 95% CI, 1.41-2.49) and was less likely in those aged 30-49 years or 50-65 years (OR = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.63-0.96, and OR = 0.60; 95% CI, 0.43-0.82, respectively) and in those whose main activity in the previous 30 days was searching for a job (OR = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.51-0.97) or carrying out household tasks (OR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.54-0.96). In women, unlike men, age groups showed no association with regular physical activity.

Conclusion: This study shows gender differences in the prevalence of physical activity levels and associated factors. Future studies should establish, in the context of Latin American cities, whether it is appropriate to determine specific measures in each domain, in addition to overall physical activity levels.