ORCID Profile
0000-0002-3221-2265
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Griffith University
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Primary Health Care | Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified | Health Counselling | Public Health and Health Services
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2011.11.012
Abstract: To develop evidence-based approaches for reducing sedentary behavior, there is a need to identify the specific settings where prolonged sitting occurs, associated factors, and variations. To examine the sociodemographic and health factors associated with mid-aged adults' sitting time in three contexts and variations between weekdays and weekend days. A mail survey was sent to 17,000 adults (aged 40-65 years) in 2007 11,037 responses were received (68.5%) and 7719 were analyzed in 2010. Respondents indicated time spent sitting on a usual weekday and weekend day for watching TV, general leisure, and home computer use. Multivariate linear mixed models with area-level random intercepts were used to examine (1) associations between sociodemographic and health variables and sitting time, and (2) interaction effects of weekday/weekend day with each of gender, age, education, and employment status, on sitting time. For each context, longer sitting times were reported by those single and living alone, and those whose health restricted activity. For watching TV, longer sitting times were reported by men smokers and those with high school or lower education, not in paid employment, in poor health, and with BMI ≥25. For general leisure, longer sitting times were reported by women, smokers, and those not employed full-time. For home computer use, longer sitting times were reported by men and those aged 40-44 years, with university qualifications in the mid-income range and with BMI ≥30. Sitting times tended to be longer on weekend days than weekdays, although the extent of this differed among sociodemographic groups. Sociodemographic and health factors associated with sitting time differ by context and between weekdays and weekend days.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-12-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S11126-019-09697-2
Abstract: Insufficient physical activity (PA) and prolonged sedentary behaviour (SB) may have deleterious psychological health consequences. Using one-year prospective data, this study examined the combined effects of PA and SB on psychological distress among university-based young adults in Dhaka, Bangladesh. During Wave 1 (September-December 2015), total 573 undergraduate students (mean age: 20.7 ± 1.35 years 45% females) completed a self-administered survey on PA, SB, psychological distress, health and lifestyle factors and sociodemographics. During Wave 2 (October-November 2016), 395 students (retention rate = 69%) completed a sub-set of Wave 2 survey with items on PA, SB and psychological distress. PA and SB were assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire and distress with the Kessler 6 Psychological Distress scale. Generalized Estimating Equations with Gaussian family and identity link under exchangeable correlation structure was used to examine the relationships. Multivariable modeling showed that participants with insufficient PA (<150 min/week) and high SB (≥480 min/day) or insufficient PA + low SB had more distress [ß: 3.07 (95% CI: 2.12-4.01) and 2.77 (1.86-3.67), respectively] than those who had sufficient PA + low SB, after controlling for gender, sleep difficulties, perceived health, fast food and fresh fruit intake. There was no statistically significant difference for the level of distress between other PA and SB groups. In this one-year prospective study, irrespective of SB, insufficient PA was associated with high psychological distress in university-based young adults in Bangladesh. The protective role of PA should be considered in intervention programs to improve psychological health of young adults.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 2018
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) has demonstrated health benefits, but participation is low in many countries. Little is known about environmental barriers to PA among young Asian adults. The purpose of this study was to identify common perceived environmental barriers to PA in young adults in Dhaka, Bangladesh and to examine if these barriers differed by gender. This was a cross-sectional study with a self-administered survey and data collected from a convenience s le of 573 students aged 20.71±1.35 years (female 45%) in Dhaka. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between environmental barriers and gender, adjusting for potential confounders. Poor street lighting at night (62%) and a lack of convenient places to do PA (56%) were the most frequently reported environmental barriers to PA. Females were more likely than males to identify a lack of neighbourhood safety (OR 4.65 [95% CI 3.09-7.00]), poor street lighting (OR 2.82 [95% CI 1.95-4.11]), lack of convenient places (OR 2.04 [95% CI 1.39-3.00]), unclean and untidy neighbourhood (OR 1.84 [95% CI 1.25-2.72]) and poor weather (OR 1.61 [95% CI 1.11-2.33]) as barriers to PA, after adjusting for a set of confounders. Findings suggest that environmental barriers to PA are particularly salient to young females in urban Bangladesh. This study underscores the need for safe and convenient options for PA that are also female friendly.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 28-02-2023
DOI: 10.1177/08982643231158424
Abstract: Objectives:This study examined how often adults 60+ years were physically active with a partner, close family, friends, and neighbors, over 7 years. Methods: Data from 2062 adults living in an Australian capital city were collected using a mail survey at four time points and analyzed using multinomial logistic regression. Results: A partner was the most frequent companion at all time points. From baseline to 7 years, the greatest decline was activity with family 1–4x/month (.79 [.64–.98]) and ≥5x/month (.54 [.36–.80]). There were also decreases in activity 1–4x/month with a partner (OR = .75, [.62–.92]), friends (.55 [.44–.68]), and neighbors (.79 [.64–.98]). Physical activity with friends or neighbors ≥5x/month did not decline. Discussion: Findings extend understanding of physical activity and activity companions among older adults. More research is needed to understand factors contributing to changes in activity done with companions.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-2011
DOI: 10.4278/AJHP.090421-QUAN-144
Abstract: Explore the role of the neighborhood environment in supporting walking. Cross-sectional study of 10,286 residents of 200 neighborhoods. Participants were selected using a stratified two-stage cluster design. Data were collected by mail survey (68.5% response rate). Brisbane City Local Government Area, Australia, 2007. Brisbane residents aged 40 to 65 years. Environmental: street connectivity, residential density, hilliness, tree coverage, bikeways, and streetlights within a 1-km circular buffer from each resident's home and network distance to nearest river or coast, public transport, shop, and park. Walking: minutes walked in the previous week: minutes, ≥30 to minutes, ≥90 to minutes, ≥150 to minutes, and ≥300 minutes. The association between each neighborhood characteristic and walking was examined using multilevel multinomial logistic regression, and the model parameters were estimated using Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. After adjustment for in idual factors, the likelihood of walking for more than 300 minutes (relative to minutes) was highest in areas with the most connectivity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.93 99% confidence intervals [CI], 1.32–2.80), greatest residential density (OR = 1.47 99% CI, 1.02–2.12), least tree coverage (OR = 1.69 99% CI, 1.13–2.51), most bikeways (OR = 1.60 99% CI, 1.16–2.21), and most streetlights (OR = 1.50 99% CI, 1.07–2.11). The likelihood of walking for more than 300 minutes was also higher among those who lived closest to a river or the coast (OR = 2.06 99% CI, 1.41–3.02). The likelihood of meeting (and exceeding) physical activity recommendations on the basis of walking was higher in neighborhoods with greater street connectivity and residential density, more streetlights and bikeways, closer proximity to waterways, and less tree coverage. Interventions targeting these neighborhood characteristics may lead to improved environmental quality as well as lower rates of overweight and obesity and associated chromic disease. (Am J Health Promot 2011 [4]:e12–e21.)
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 06-2010
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2012
DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2012.695020
Abstract: To investigate how the effects of a group-based intervention program (MoVo-LISA) on exercise behaviour were mediated by cognitive variables. Different causal models mapping the short-term (adoption) and long-term (maintenance) intervention effects were tested using path analyses. N = 220 in-patients of a rehabilitation clinic were assigned to an usual care or intervention group (quasi-experimental design). Questionnaire-based assessment was conducted at baseline discharge and at six weeks, six months and 12 months post discharge. The potential mediator variables were outcome expectations, self-efficacy, strength of goal intention (intention strength), self-concordance, action planning and barrier management. Observed intervention effects on exercise behaviour (p < 0.05) were mediated by intention strength at the adoption and maintenance stages, by action planning only at the adoption, and by barrier management only at the maintenance stage. Self-efficacy and outcome expectations were only indirectly involved in these mediations by affecting intention strength and self-concordance. This is the first study to track the cognitive mediation processes of intervention effects on exercise behaviour over a long time-period by differentiating the adoption and maintenance stages of behaviour change. The findings emphasise the importance of deconstructing intervention effects (modifiability vs. predictive power of a mediator) to develop more effective interventions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-2011
DOI: 10.2165/11539180-000000000-00000
Abstract: The term 'presenteeism' is a relatively new concept in workplace health, and has come to signify being at work despite poor health and performing below par. Presenteeism, which is potentially critical to employers, has been associated with a range of psychosocial outcome measures, such as poor mental health and employee well-being. Physical activity is a potential strategy for reducing presenteeism, and for improving the mental health of employees. This article reviews evidence on the relationships between physical activity and employee well-being and presenteeism in the workplace, and identifies directions for research in an emerging field. Electronic and manual literature searches were used to identify 20 articles that met the inclusion criteria. These included 13 intervention trials (8 randomized controlled trials, 5 comparison trials) and 7 observational studies (3 cohort, 4 cross-sectional). Outcome measures were grouped into 'workplace well-being', 'psychosocial well-being' and 'physical well-being'. Studies measured a wide variety of outcomes, with absenteeism being the most commonly assessed. Evidence indicated a positive association between physical activity and psychosocial health in employees, particularly for quality of life and emotional well-being. However, findings were inconclusive as to the role of physical activity in promoting workplace well-being. Only one study reported on presenteeism, with mixed evidence for outcomes. This article indicates that physical activity and employee psychosocial health are positively related, but there is limited evidence of a relationship between physical activity and presenteeism. A standardized definition of presenteeism and an appropriate evaluation tool are key research priorities if the complex relationships between physical activity and workplace well-being are to be better understood.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2013
Abstract: Retirement is a major life transition during which people restructure everyday activities however little is known about this. The primary aim of the Life After Work study is to comprehensively measure changes in time use and patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour, and its associations with health and wellbeing, across the retirement transition. A target s le of 120 participants aged 50 years and over will be recruited in two Australian state capital cities, Adelaide and Brisbane. Participants will undertake a battery of assessments approximately 3 months prior to retirement, and 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement. Measures will include self-reported use of time (using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults), objectively assessed physical activity and sedentary behaviour (using Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometers), self-reported health and well-being (using a battery of questionnaires including the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Australian Unity Personal Well-being Index (AUPWI), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 (DASS21), Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale, UCLA Loneliness Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), retirement circumstances and socio-demographic characteristics, objectively assessed anthropometric measures (height, weight and waist circumference), and resting blood pressure. Multivariate mixed models will be used to examine changes in use of time, health and well-being across retirement. The results will provide important new information that will inform the development of lifestyle and policy interventions to address and improve health and well-being in retirement.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2021
DOI: 10.1111/ADJ.12816
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 03-2014
Abstract: Patient-group specific preferences can be used to design physical activity programs. This study compared physical activity context preferences between (1) people with musculoskeletal conditions (ie, arthritis and/or osteoporosis) and people without these conditions, and (2) people with arthritis only and people with osteoporosis only. Data were from 1684 participants (57.2 ± 6.6 years) with self-reported arthritis and/or osteoporosis and 4550 participants (52.9 ± 6.9 years) without these conditions. Participants indicated the extent to which they disagreed/agreed with a preference for each of 14 contexts. Marginal means and 95% confidence intervals are presented, differences were tested with ANCOVA. Compared with participants without musculoskeletal conditions, those with arthritis and/or osteoporosis indicated a slightly stronger preference for activities that are not just about exercise [3.55 (3.51–3.59) vs. 3.49 (3.46–3.52), P = .02], and a weaker preference for vigorous activities [3.02 (2.97–3.06) vs. 3.08 (3.06–3.11), P = .02], and activities with a set routine or format [3.29 (3.24–3.33) vs. 3.35 (3.32–3.38), P = .02]. Participants with arthritis only [n = 1063, 2.64, (2.59–2.70)] had a stronger preference against supervision than those with osteoporosis only [n = 146, 2.84 (2.69–2.99) P = .02]. Only small differences were found in the activity context preferences between people with and without musculoskeletal conditions, and between people with osteoporosis and people with arthritis. The context of physical activity interventions for people with arthritis and/or osteoporosis does not have to be different from those for people without these conditions.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-06-2018
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 28-07-2022
DOI: 10.2196/37556
Abstract: The metabolic syndrome is common across many complex chronic disease groups. Advances in health technology have provided opportunities to support lifestyle interventions. The purpose of this study is to test the feasibility of a health technology-assisted lifestyle intervention in a patient-led model of care. The study is a single-center, 26-week, randomized controlled trial. The setting is specialist kidney and liver disease clinics at a large Australian tertiary hospital. The participants will be adults with a complex chronic condition who are referred for dietetic assessment and display at least one feature of the metabolic syndrome. All participants will receive an in idualized assessment and advice on diet quality from a dietitian, a wearable activity monitor, and standard care. Participants randomized to the intervention group will receive access to a suite of health technologies from which to choose, including common base components (text messages) and optional components (online and mobile app–based nutrition information, an online home exercise program, and group-based videoconferencing). Exposure to the optional aspects of the intervention will be patient-led, with participants choosing their preferred level of engagement. The primary outcome will be the feasibility of delivering the program, determined by safety, recruitment rate, retention, exposure uptake, and telehealth adherence. Secondary outcomes will be clinical effectiveness, patient-led goal attainment, treatment fidelity, exposure demand, and participant perceptions. Primary outcome data will be assessed descriptively and secondary outcomes will be assessed using an analysis of covariance. This study will provide evidence on the feasibility of the intervention in a tertiary setting for patients with complex chronic disease exhibiting features of the metabolic syndrome. The study was funded in 2019. Enrollment has commenced and is expected to be completed by June 2022. Data collection and follow up are expected to be completed by December 2022. Results from the analyses based on primary outcomes are expected to be submitted for publication by June 2023. The study will test the implementation of a health technology–assisted lifestyle intervention in a tertiary outpatient setting for a erse group of patients with complex chronic conditions. It is novel in that it embeds patient choice into intervention exposure and will inform health service decision-makers in regards to the feasibility of scale and spread of technology-assisted access to care for a broader reach of specialist services. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12620001282976 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=378337 DERR1-10.2196/37556
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 09-05-2019
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to assess Emirati university students’ knowledge of physical activity guidelines and perceptions of the benefits of physical activity for mental health. A random s le ( n = 628) completed an online questionnaire assessing the recommended amount of physical activity for good health (min/week) and to what extent exercise can help improve wellbeing, and manage depression and anxiety/stress (5-point Likert-type scale). Only 3% of respondents identified 150 min/week and less than half (39%) of the respondents reported an amount within the range of 150–300 min/week. Most respondents believed that physical activity could improve wellbeing (69%), and manage depression (71%) and anxiety/stress (74%). Females were more likely than males to view physical activity as a way to manage depression ( p = .003), and anxiety/stress ( p = .002). More work may be required to promote awareness of physical activity guidelines in this population, and males’ awareness of mental health benefits of physical activity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: American Public Health Association
Date: 11-2019
Abstract: Background. Shift work is characterized by employees working outside the standard hours of 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Because shift work includes night work, the normal sleep–wake cycle (circadian rhythm) is disrupted, with potential consequences for shift workers’ physical and mental health. Objectives. To assess the pooled effects of shift work on mental health and to evaluate whether these differ in men and women. Search Methods. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for peer-reviewed or government reports published up to August 2018 Selection Criteria. To be included, studies had to be longitudinal or case–control studies of shift work exposure associated with adverse mental health outcomes. For subanalyses, we grouped these outcomes as anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, or general poor mental health symptoms. Data Collection and Analysis. We followed the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Group guidelines. We extracted adjusted risk estimates for each study to calculate pooled effect sizes (ESs) using random effect models and metaregression analysis to explore sources of heterogeneity. Main Results. We included 7 longitudinal studies, with 28 431 unique participants. Shift work was associated with increased overall risk of adverse mental health outcomes combined (ES = 1.28 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02, 1.62 I 2 = 70.6%) and specifically for depressive symptoms (ES = 1.33 95% CI = 1.02, 1.74 I 2 = 31.5%). Gender differences explained more than 90% of heterogeneity, with female shift workers more likely to experience depressive symptoms than female non–shift workers (odds ratio = 1.73 95% CI = 1.39, 2.14). Authors’ Conclusions. To our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis to investigate the pooled effects of shift work on the risk of poor mental health, including subanalyses by type of poor mental health and gender. Shift workers, particularly women, are at increased risk for poor mental health, particularly depressive symptoms. Public Health Implications. Depression accounts for 4.3% of the global burden of disease and incidence, with mental disorders worldwide predicted to cost US $16.3 million by 2030. With 1 in 5 people in the United States and Europe doing shift work, and the increased risk of poor mental health among shift workers, shift work industries are a priority context for reducing this burden. Workplace health promotion programs and policies are needed to minimize shift workers’ risk of poor mental health.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2010.05.024
Abstract: Emerging evidence suggests that sedentary behavior (i.e., time spent sitting) may be negatively associated with health. The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence on associations between occupational sitting and health risks. Studies were identified in March-April 2009 by literature searches in PubMed, PsycINFO, CENTRAL, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PEDro, with subsequent related-article searches in PubMed and citation searches in Web of Science. Identified studies were categorized by health outcome. Two independent reviewers assessed methodologic quality using a 15-item quality rating list (score range 0-15 points, higher score indicating better quality). Data on study design, study population, measures of occupational sitting, health risks, analyses, and results were extracted. 43 papers met the inclusion criteria (21% cross-sectional, 14% case-control, 65% prospective) they examined the associations between occupational sitting and BMI (n=12) cancer (n=17) cardiovascular disease (CVD, n=8) diabetes mellitus (DM, n=4) and mortality (n=6). The median study-quality score was 12 points. Half the cross-sectional studies showed a positive association between occupational sitting and BMI, but prospective studies failed to confirm a causal relationship. There was some case-control evidence for a positive association between occupational sitting and cancer however, this was generally not supported by prospective studies. The majority of prospective studies found that occupational sitting was associated with a higher risk of DM and mortality. Limited evidence was found to support a positive relationship between occupational sitting and health risks. The heterogeneity of study designs, measures, and findings makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions at this time.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2010
Abstract: Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) shows promise for reducing the risk of poor mental health in later life, although gender- and age-specific research is required to clarify this association. This study examined the concurrent and prospective relationships between both LTPA and walking with mental health in older women. Community-dwelling women aged 73-78 years completed mailed surveys in 1999, 2002 and 2005 for the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Respondents reported their weekly minutes of walking, moderate LTPA and vigorous LTPA. Mental health was defined as the number of depression and anxiety symptoms, as assessed with the Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADS). Multivariable linear mixed models, adjusted for socio-demographic and health-related variables, were used to examine associations between five levels of LTPA (none, very low, low, intermediate and high) and GADS scores. For women who reported walking as their only LTPA, associations between walking and GADS scores were also examined. Women who reported depression or anxiety in 1999 were excluded, resulting in data from 6,653 women being included in these analyses. Inverse dose-response associations were observed between both LTPA and walking with GADS scores in concurrent and prospective models (p<0.001). Even low levels of LTPA and walking were associated with lowered scores. The lowest scores were observed in women reporting high levels of LTPA or walking. The results support an inverse dose-response association between both LTPA and walking with mental health, over 3 years in older women without depression or anxiety.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2015.09.002
Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess levels and patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour among inpatient adults with mental illness. Cross-sectional. 101 participants completed questionnaires on time spent in walking, moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity in the past week and domain specific sitting time on a usual weekday and weekend day. 36 participants also provided valid accelerometry data. Regression analyses were used to explore associations between MVPA and sedentary behaviour and explanatory variables of gender, age, education, body mass index and psychological distress. Self-report data indicated median of 32min/day (IQR: 14.46-85.71) in weighted MVPA and a median of 761min/day (12.7h) (IQR: 552.43-917.14) in sedentary behaviour. Accelerometry data indicated an average of 115min/day in light activity, 37min/day in MVPA and 664min/day (11.1h) in sedentary behaviour. Bivariate analyses indicated no significant associations between explanatory variables and MVPA and sedentary behaviour. Inpatient adults with mental illness can be physically active, with walking comprising the major component of MVPA time. Inpatient adults with mental illness spend a significant amount of time sitting intervention strategies could focus on reducing the time spent sitting in general relaxation and doing nothing.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2017.02.018
Abstract: This study aimed to investigate how daily use of time changes across the retirement transition and how these changes may differ according to socio-demographic characteristics. This longitudinal cohort study was based on interviews with 124 people at pre-retirement and at three, six and 12 months after retirement. The Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA), a computer-assisted telephone interview, measured use of time. Random effects mixed modelling (REMM) was used to examine time use changes across retirement, and ANCOVA to investigate the extent of the change by sex, education and health. Apart from the decrease in time spent in work across retirement (-122min/day, p<0.001), less time was also spent in both active and passive transport (-26min/day, p<0.001). There were significant increases in time spent on Chores (+55min/day, p<0.001), Screen time (+32min/day, p<0.001), Sleep (+32min/day, p<0.001), Quiet time (+17min/day, p=0.02), Self-care (+8min/day, p=0.01) and Physical activity (+7min/day, p=0.01). There was little variation in change between sex, education and health sub-groups. Most changes occurred at retirement, with time use patterns fairly stable between three and 12 months post-retirement. The small amount of time spent in physical activity, combined with less time spent in active transport and increased time spent watching television, indicate the need for a more active lifestyle.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2016.09.012
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) is positively associated with health-related quality of life (HRQL) in older adults. It is not evident whether this association applies to older adults with poor mental health. This study examined associations between PA and HRQL in older women with a history of depressive symptoms. Participants were 555 Australian women born in 1921-1926 who reported depressive symptoms in 1999 on a postal survey for the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. They completed additional surveys in 2002, 2005 and 2008 that assessed HRQL and weekly minutes walking, in moderate PA, and in vigorous PA. Random effects mixed models were used to examine concurrent and prospective associations between PA and each of 10 HRQL measures (eight SF-36 subscales two composite scales). In concurrent models, higher levels of PA were associated with better HRQL (p 3 point differences) were evident for physical functioning, general health, vitality and social functioning. For women in their 70s-80s with a history of depressive symptoms, PA is positively associated with HRQL concurrently, and to a lesser extent prospectively. This study extends previous work by showing significant associations in older women with a history of depressive symptoms. Incorporating PA into depression management of older women may improve their HRQL.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 14-02-2019
Abstract: This study assessed recreational physical activity type and context preferences of Emirati university students. This was a cross-sectional study in which a stratified random s le (n=628) (female 69.1%, male 30.9% mean age 20.79±3.81 y) completed an online survey. Relationships between gender and preferences were assessed using regression analysis, adjusted for body mass index and age. Activities with a fun element were the most preferred context (87.1%). Walking (66.7%) and swimming (61.7%) were the most preferred activity types. Males had significantly higher odds of preferring competitive activities, and activity types such as football, fitness/weights and jogging. Females had significantly higher odds of preferring activities with people of the same gender, with supervision and done at home, and activity types such as walking, aerobics, cycling, squash and yoga. These results can inform physical activity planning for university students in the United Arab Emirates. Fun activity opportunities involving walking or swimming and in the local neighbourhood may be popular for both males and females. Future research could explore uptake and maintenance of activity options, based on preferred activity attributes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-1998
DOI: 10.1016/S0749-3797(98)00078-6
Abstract: This paper reviews studies of physical activity interventions in health care settings to determine effects on physical activity and/or fitness and characteristics of successful interventions. Studies testing interventions to promote physical activity in health care settings for primary prevention (patients without disease) and secondary prevention (patients with cardiovascular disease [CVD]) were identified by computerized search methods and reference lists of reviews and articles. Inclusion criteria included assignment to intervention and control groups, physical activity or cardiorespiratory fitness outcome measures, and, for the secondary prevention studies, measurement 12 or more months after randomization. The number of studies with statistically significant effects was determined overall as well as for studies testing interventions with various characteristics. Twelve studies of primary prevention were identified, seven of which were randomized. Three of four randomized studies with short-term measurement (4 weeks to 3 months after randomization), and two of five randomized studies with long-term measurement (6 months after randomization) achieved significant effect on physical activity. Twenty-four randomized studies of CVD secondary prevention were identified 13 achieved significant effects on activity and/or fitness at twelve or more months. Studies with measurement at two time points showed decaying effects over time, particularly if the intervention were discontinued. Successful interventions contained multiple contacts, behavioral approaches, supervised exercise, provision of equipment, and/or continuing intervention. Many studies had methodologic problems such as low follow-up rates. Interventions in health care settings can increase physical activity for both primary and secondary prevention. Long-term effects are more likely with continuing intervention and multiple intervention components such as supervised exercise, provision of equipment, and behavioral approaches. Recommendations for additional research are given.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S44167-023-00018-4
Abstract: Pedometers have been shown to be effective for increasing physical activity, however the potential additional effects of activity trackers, and their added capacity to simultaneously modify sedentary behaviour, has not been thoroughly explored. This study aimed to explore the comparative effectiveness of two activity trackers and a pedometer for improving daily step count and moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and reducing sedentary behaviour in inactive adults. 48 inactive participants were allocated to one of three groups based on their workplace. Each group randomly received either a Fitbit ONE, Jawbone UP or Digi-Walker SW200 pedometer (PED) for 8-weeks and an orientation session to their respective device. Participants were informed about the study aims and were provided with their respective devices and where applicable, the associated Apps. Participants intentionally received no other active intervention components to simulate as closely as possible the experience of purchasing a device ‘off the shelf’. Step count, MVPA and time in sedentary behaviour were measured using accelerometry (Actigraph GT3X+) at baseline and four-, eight- and 16-weeks. Analyses were conducted using linear mixed-effect regression models to compare changes from baseline. Post-hoc tests of model estimates compared each activity tracker group to the pedometer group. Model estimates are reported for baseline-16 week follow-up. At baseline, average (standard deviation) step count, MVPA and time spent sedentary was 6557 (2111) steps/day, 23 (13) minutes/day and 10.3 (1.0) hours/day in the PED group, 7156 (1496) steps/day, 26 (12) minutes/day and 9.3 (1.2) hours/day in the ONE group and 6853 (1281) steps/day, 29 (10) minutes/day and 10.1 (1.0) hours/day in the UP group. At 16-weeks, based on estimates from the linear mixed-effect regression model, the ONE and UP groups increased step count by 129 steps/day (95% CI − 1497, 1754) and 504 steps/day more (95% CI − 1120, 2130), respectively, than the PED group. For MVPA, the ONE and UP groups increased by 2.3 min/day (95% CI − 10.9, 15.4) and 2.7 min/day more (95% CI − 10.5, 15.8), respectively, than the PED group. For sedentary behaviour, the ONE group had 34 min/day more in time spent sedentary than the PED group (95% CI − 35, 104), while the UP group had 53 min/day more in time spent sedentary than the PED group (95% CI − 18, 123). All three groups demonstrated an increase in steps and MVPA, and a decrease in time spent in sedentary behaviour, however there was substantial in idual variation in these outcomes indicating considerable uncertainty about the relative effectiveness of activity trackers and pedometers in improving PA and sedentary behaviour. Randomised controlled trials with adequate s le sizes are indicated. ACTRN12623000027617 (retrospectively registered 11/1/2023).
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/SMS.13795
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2017.05.013
Abstract: This study aimed to identify how different patterns of physical activity, sleep duration and sleep quality cluster together, and to examine how the identified clusters differ in terms of socio-demographic and health characteristics. Participants were adults from Brisbane, Australia, aged 42-72 years who reported their physical activity, sleep duration, sleep quality, socio-demographic and health characteristics in 2011 (n=5854). Two-step Cluster Analyses were used to identify clusters. Cluster differences in socio-demographic and health characteristics were examined using chi square tests (p<0.05). Four clusters were identified: 'Poor Sleepers' (31.2%), 'Moderate Sleepers' (30.7%), 'Mixed Sleepers/Highly Active' (20.5%), and 'Excellent Sleepers/Mixed Activity' (17.6%). The 'Poor Sleepers' cluster had the highest proportion of participants with less-than-recommended sleep duration and poor sleep quality, had the poorest health characteristics and a high proportion of participants with low physical activity. Physical activity, sleep duration and sleep quality cluster together in distinct patterns and clusters of poor behaviours are associated with poor health status. Multiple health behaviour change interventions which target both physical activity and sleep should be prioritised to improve health outcomes in mid-aged adults.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 26-09-2008
DOI: 10.1108/17538350810926516
Abstract: Awareness of potential health impact and variations in key risk factors for chronic disease are important considerations in multi‐site, workplace physical activity interventions. This study seeks to examine associations and site variations between workday step counts, sitting times, waist circumference and blood pressure in three universities. Participants were white‐collar, university employees (172 women and 44 men aged 41.0±10.3 years) from Barcelona, Spain ( n =81), Brisbane, Australia ( n =71) and Leeds, UK ( n =64). Workday step counts and sitting times (five days) and waist circumference and blood pressure were assessed and compared against health‐related thresholds. Step counts were classified into tertiles and differences in sitting time, waist circumference and blood pressure were compared across tertiles using ANOVA, as were site variations in key variables. Daily step counts were inversely associated with sitting times ( p .05), women's waist circumference ( p .05) and systolic ( p .01) and diastolic ( p .05) blood pressure. Activity rates – relative to the public health criterion of 10,000 daily steps – were lower in Brisbane (16 per cent) and Leeds (15 per cent), compared with Barcelona (47 per cent). Barcelona employees also sat less ( p .001), had lower men's and women's waist circumference ( p .01) and lower women's diastolic blood pressure ( p .001). The small number of male participants precluded meaningful analyses for men. The findings evidence the health benefits of workplace walking in the s les and highlight the need to account for variations in multi‐site, multi‐national interventions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2007.07.029
Abstract: This narrative review updates evidence from the last 10 years on physical activity (PA) and the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer in women. A literature search was conducted to identify prospective cohort studies published from January 1997 to February 2006. There were significant reductions in risk in 12 of 17 studies of cardiovascular outcomes (risk reductions ranging from 28% to 58%), in seven of eight studies of diabetes (14% to 46%), in seven of ten studies of breast cancer (11% to 67%), in two of two studies of endometrial cancer (68% to 90%), and in one of three studies of colorectal cancer (31% to 46%). There was mixed evidence for PA preventing gestational diabetes (three studies) and a range of other cancers (13 studies). Protective benefits for cardiovascular disease and diabetes were reported with as little as 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week (240 Metabolic Equivalent (MET) minutes or 4 MET hours), with walking and moderate-intensity physical activity providing risk reductions comparable to those for the equivalent energy expenditure from more vigorous-intensity physical activity. There is strong evidence of a role for PA in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers in women. There was no evidence of additional health benefits from vigorous-intensity PA, over and above those achieved from walking or moderate-intensity PA. This may be because, in most studies, there was limited reporting of vigorous PA by women. For some health outcomes, the amount of PA required for health benefits in middle-aged and older women might be lower than current national recommendations.
Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Date: 29-06-2018
Abstract: National laws fearing biopiracy squelch taxonomy studies
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-10-2007
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 10-2004
DOI: 10.1123/JPAH.1.4.344
Abstract: This study assessed item nonresponse (INR) in a population-based mail survey of physical activity (PA). A questionnaire was mailed to a random s le, with a 57% response rate ( n = 2532). The magnitude and type of PA INR and the association with sociodemographic variables was examined using logistic regression. Among survey respondents, 28% had incomplete PA data 11% missed 1 item, 11% missed 2 items, and 5% missed all 3 items. Respondents missing 3 items tended to be female, less educated, low income, in poor health, and current smokers. The walking item was missed by 8% of respondents, and 18% and 23% missed the vigorous-intensity and moderate-intensity PA items respectively. These groups were sociodemograpically different from those without INR. Incomplete PA data was also associated with sociodemographic INR. Mail surveys may underrepresent in iduals insufficiently active for health, in particular those of low socioeconomic position.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-11-2009
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2010.00618.X
Abstract: To assess the accuracy of body mass index (BMI) estimated from self-reported height and weight from a mailed survey, in a population-based s le of mid-aged Australian women. One hundred and fifty nine women (age 54-59 years) were recruited from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Participants provided height and weight data in a mailed survey and were then measured (Brisbane, Australia 2005). Differences between self-reported and measured data were examined by plotting against the measured values and using paired t-tests and kappa statistics. Factors associated with biased reporting were assessed using regression models. Both self-reported height and weight tended to be underestimated, with a mean difference of 0.67 cm (95% CI 0.26 to 1.08 cm) and 0.95 kg (95% CI 0.44 to 1.47 kg) respectively. Reported height and derived BMI was more accurate among married women than single women (average difference of 1.28 cm, 95% CI 0.19 to 2.37 cm and -1.00 kg/m², 95%CI -1.69 to -0.30, respectively). Women with BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m² reported weight more accurately than obese women (average difference of 2.26 kg, 95% CI 0.14 to 4.38 kg). There was 84% agreement between BMI categories derived from self-reported and measured data, with 85%, 73% and 94% of women correctly classified as obese, overweight, and healthy BMI using self-reported data and kappa=0.81. There is substantial agreement between self-reported and measured height and weight data for mid-aged women, especially among married and healthy weight women. Population-based studies among mid-aged women in Australia can use self-reported data obtained from mailed surveys to derive BMI estimates.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AP.12429
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-12-2020
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYAA175
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-09-2016
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.5531
Abstract: Activity trackers are increasingly popular with both consumers and researchers for monitoring activity and for promoting positive behavior change. However, there is a lack of research investigating the performance of these devices in free-living contexts, for which findings are likely to vary from studies conducted in well-controlled laboratory settings. The aim was to compare Fitbit One and Jawbone UP estimates of steps, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior with data from the ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer in a free-living context. Thirty-two participants were recruited using convenience s ling 29 provided valid data for this study (female: 90%, 26/29 age: mean 39.6, SD 11.0 years). On two occasions for 7 days each, participants wore an ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer on their right hip and either a hip-worn Fitbit One (n=14) or wrist-worn Jawbone UP (n=15) activity tracker. Daily estimates of steps and very active minutes were derived from the Fitbit One (n=135 days) and steps, active time, and longest idle time from the Jawbone UP (n=154 days). Daily estimates of steps, MVPA, and longest sedentary bout were derived from the corresponding days of ActiGraph data. Correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots with examination of systematic bias were used to assess convergent validity and agreement between the devices and the ActiGraph. Cohen's kappa was used to assess the agreement between each device and the ActiGraph for classification of active versus inactive (≥10,000 steps per day and ≥30 min/day of MVPA) comparable with public health guidelines. Correlations with ActiGraph estimates of steps and MVPA ranged between .72 and .90 for Fitbit One and .56 and .75 for Jawbone UP. Compared with ActiGraph estimates, both devices overestimated daily steps by 8% (Fitbit One) and 14% (Jawbone UP). However, mean differences were larger for daily MVPA (Fitbit One: underestimated by 46% Jawbone UP: overestimated by 50%). There was systematic bias across all outcomes for both devices. Correlations with ActiGraph data for longest idle time (Jawbone UP) ranged from .08 to .19. Agreement for classifying days as active or inactive using the ≥10,000 steps/day criterion was substantial (Fitbit One: κ=.68 Jawbone UP: κ=.52) and slight-fair using the criterion of ≥30 min/day of MVPA (Fitbit One: κ=.40 Jawbone UP: κ=.14). There was moderate-strong agreement between the ActiGraph and both Fitbit One and Jawbone UP for the estimation of daily steps. However, due to modest accuracy and systematic bias, they are better suited for consumer-based self-monitoring (eg, for the public consumer or in behavior change interventions) rather than to evaluate research outcomes. The outcomes that relate to health-enhancing MVPA (eg, "very active minutes" for Fitbit One or "active time" for Jawbone UP) and sedentary behavior ("idle time" for Jawbone UP) should be used with caution by consumers and researchers alike.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-09-2015
DOI: 10.3109/09638237.2015.1057321
Abstract: Adults with mental illness may have difficulties with data collection methods such as questionnaires and accelerometry. To assess the utility of questionnaires and accelerometry for assessing physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) in non-institutionalised adults with mental illness. Participants were recruited from outpatient clinics and community organisations. Participants completed PA and SB questionnaires, wore accelerometers for 7 d, and rated the ease/difficulty of completing study components. Recruitment numbers, adherence, and ease/difficulty ratings were examined. Ease/difficulty ratings were compared between study components, and between participants by distress level. One hundred forty-two participants completed the questionnaires they found it easier to report PA than reclining time (p = 0.017), and reclining time than sitting time (p < 0.001). Participants with high distress found it more difficult to report sitting time and PA than participants with low distress (p < 0.017). Ninety-nine participants (70%) completed the accelerometry the majority (88%) met the minimum wear-time criteria. They found it easier to wear the monitor during the day than while sleeping (p < 0.001), and easier to complete accelerometry than questionnaires (p < 0.001). Accelerometry was more feasible for assessing SB than questionnaires. Questionnaires were feasible for assessing PA, but less acceptable for people experiencing high distress.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 05-2009
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2011.04.007
Abstract: Previous studies have shown that qi-gong, a form of mind-body movement therapy, may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes however, no controlled studies have been conducted to examine the predictors and mediators of qi-gong effects on indicators of diabetes control. This study examined the effects of qi-gong on diabetes control and identified the predictors and mediators of these effects. RCT. The study included forty-one participants (16 men and 25 women aged 41-71 years) with elevated blood glucose levels. Participants were randomized to qi-gong intervention or a usual medical care control group. Physical and hematologic measures were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. The outcomes were indicators of diabetes control (HbA1c, insulin resistance, fasting blood glucose and insulin, and 2-hour blood glucose and insulin) and potential mediators of these (body weight, waist circumference, and leg strength). Data were collected in 2006 and analyzed in 2007 to 2009. Linear regression analyses showed significant between-group differences in favor of the intervention group in weight (p<0.01) waist circumference (p<0.01) leg strength (p<0.01) HbA1c (p<0.05) insulin resistance (p<0.01) and fasting blood insulin (p<0.01) at 12 weeks. Logistic regression analyses showed that the qi-gong intervention was a significant predictor of reduced weight (odds for decreasing by -2 kg=11.14, p<0.01) waist circumference (by -5 cm=22.50, p<0.01) insulin resistance (by -0.2 unit=3.75, p<0.05) and improved leg strength (odds for increasing by 4 stands in 30 seconds=7.00, p<0.01). The effect of the qi-gong intervention on improved insulin resistance was mediated by reduced weight. The qi-gong intervention was associated with improvements in weight, waist circumference, leg strength, and insulin resistance. The mediation analyses highlight the importance of weight reduction in the control of diabetes. TRIAL REGISTRATION #: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12607000528459.
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 30-08-2017
DOI: 10.5334/HPB.3
Abstract: Physical activity is an effective method for managing depressive symptoms, and web-based interventions may be an effective tool for promoting physical activity within this population. People with depressive symptoms may experience condition-specific facilitators and barriers to be considered when developing physical activity interventions. This study provides insight into web-based physical activity intervention preferences and physical activity motivation of people with depressive symptoms. This study was part of a larger trial of a web-based physical activity intervention for people with depressive symptoms. Thematic analysis of participants’ (N = 20) written responses to open-ended survey questions was conducted. Preferences for web-based intervention features included social forums, self-monitoring, suggestions for types of physical activity in different circumstances and information targeted to people with depressive symptoms. When discussing physical activity motivation instrumental beliefs (i.e., beliefs of the benefits and cost of physical activity) and controllability (i.e., whether the behaviour is under their control) were discussed. Additionally, people reported condition-specific barriers of physical activity such as depressive symptoms of apathy, worthlessness, and pain. Further research is needed to test the effectiveness of web-based physical activity interventions targeting people with depressive symptoms, which incorporates these findings.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-03-2009
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-10-2018
DOI: 10.1111/AJCO.13089
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1037/REP0000167
Abstract: To evaluate the feasibility and psychosocial outcomes of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based group resilience training program for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Research Method/Design: The study used a pre-post group intervention design with 3-month follow-up. The intervention consisted of 8 group sessions of 2.5 hours each with 7 weekly sessions plus a booster Session 5 weeks later. Thirty-seven PwMS completed questionnaires. Primary psychosocial outcomes were resilience, quality of life (QoL), and distress. Secondary outcomes were the ACT processes: mindfulness, defusion, values and acceptance. Significant improvements were observed for resilience (p = .005 Hedge's g = .47), physical health QoL (p < .001 g = -.76), mental health QoL (p = .006 g = -.46), depression (p = .009 g = .38), stress (p = .025 g = .33), and 3 ACT processes: defusion (p = .013 g = -.54), values (p = .010 g = -.38), and acceptance (p = .006 g = -.39). Values and defusion emerged as mediators of physical health QoL and stress (90% CI), respectively. Program feasibility was supported by positive participant feedback high rates of recruitment, attendance, retention, and homework engagement and good intervention fidelity. Findings provide preliminary support for the utility and feasibility of a community organization delivered ACT-based group resilience training program for improving resilience, QoL, depression, stress, and protective factors (defusion, values, acceptance) in PwMS. (PsycINFO Database Record
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-06-2019
Abstract: Interrelationships between neighborhood walkability, area disadvantage, and crime may contribute to the inconsistent associations between crime and walking. We examined associations between crime and walking, and tested for differences by neighborhood disadvantage while addressing these additional complexities. Participants ( n = 6,680) from 200 neighborhoods spanning the most and least disadvantaged in Brisbane, Australia, completed a questionnaire and objective measures were generated for the in idual-level 1,000-m neighborhood. Multilevel models examined associations between crime (perceived and objective) and walking (recreational and transport), and interactions tested for differences by neighborhood disadvantage. High perceived crime was associated with reduced odds of transport walking, whereas high objective crime was associated with increased odds of transport walking. Patterns did not differ by neighborhood disadvantage. In disadvantaged neighborhoods, the “negative” criminogenic attributes were insufficient to outweigh the “positive” walkability attributes, producing similar walking patterns to advantaged neighborhoods where residents were dislocated from local destinations but buffered from crime.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-03-2023
Abstract: Physical activity is consistently recognized as a key component of healthy aging. The current study aimed to investigate the prospective association between social support specific for physical activity (SSPA) and physical activity across nine years among adults aged 60–65 years at baseline (n = 1984). An observational longitudinal design was used, with mail surveys administered to a population-based s le across four waves. SSPA was measured using a score ranging from 5–25, and physical activity was assessed as time spent in walking, or engaging in moderate and vigorous activity, during the previous week. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. The results demonstrated a positive significant relationship between SSPA and physical activity, accounting for sociodemographic and health variables. Each unit of increase in SSPA was associated with 11 extra minutes of physical activity per week (p 0.001). There was a significant interaction between SSPA and wave at the final timepoint, such that the relationship was weaker (p = 0.017). The results highlight the value of even small increases in SSPA. SSPA could be targeted to promote physical activity among older adults, but may be more impactful in young-old adults. More research is needed to understand impactful sources of SSPA, underlying mechanisms between SSPA and physical activity, and potential moderation by age.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-05-2011
Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the association between time spent in sedentary leisure and physical activity level in mid-aged men and women. Data were from the 2007 HABITAT study in Brisbane, Australia. A mail survey sent to 17 000 adults (40-65 years) provided 11 037 responses (68.5%), and 9121 (82.6%) were analysed. Sedentary leisure was quantified as hours/day spent sitting watching television, in home computer use, in general leisure, and overall, on a usual week and weekend day. Physical activity level (no activity, low, recommended, high, very high) included walking, moderate and vigorous activity combined into a measure of MET.min/week. Data were analysed separately for men and women using multilevel multinomial logistic regression with adjustment for sociodemographic and health variables. The only significant negative associations were between watching television on a week day and high activity in men (0.91 0.83-0.98), and home computer use on a weekend day and very high activity in men (0.89 0.81-0.98). For both men and women, there were significant positive associations between overall sedentary leisure time on a week day and very high activity (men: 1.07, 1.02-1.13 women: 1.10, 1.04-1.16), home computer use on a week day and very high activity (men: 1.11, 1.01-1.22 women: 1.15, 1.04-1.27) and general leisure on a week day and most activity levels. Sedentary leisure is mainly independent of physical activity and does not preclude meeting physical activity recommendations.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 30-08-2012
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2012-091103
Abstract: Although physical activity occurs in leisure, transport, occupational and domestic domains of life, the contribution of house and garden work (HGW) to the association between total physical activity and well-being is not clear. The aim was to describe the contribution of HGW to total physical activity (TPA) in association with well-being in younger, mid-aged and older women. Younger (25-30 years), mid-aged (50-55 years) and older (76-81 years) participants in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health completed a mailed survey with questions about leisure, transport and house and garden activities. Well-being was assessed using the physical and mental components scores of the SF-36. Cross-sectional associations between the physical activity variables and well-being were modelled using General Additive Modelling. Correlations between HGW and leisure/transport activity (LTA) were low (r<0.3, p<0.001). Positive curvilinear associations were found between LTA and physical and mental well-being in all three cohorts, and between HGW and physical and mental well-being in mid-aged and older women. In the younger women, an inverse relationship was found between HGW and well-being. When HGW and LTA were summed (TPA), the associations between TPA and well-being were attenuated compared with those for LTA alone and well-being. In mid-aged and older women, relationships between HGW and well-being were similar to, but weaker than seen for LTA and well-being. In young women, well-being declined with increasing HGW. Summing HGW to LTA led to attenuated relationships, suggesting that domains of physical activity should not be summed when studying relationships with well-being.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.4278/AJHP.120404-LIT-187
Abstract: To conduct a systematic review to assess recruitment rates in workplace physical activity (PA) intervention studies and describe characteristics of studies with high recruitment rates. Electronic and manual searches were conducted. Workplace PA intervention studies that reported the number of employees invited to participate and the number who responded were included. Studies with recruitment rates of ≥ 70% were categorized as high with the remaining studies ( 70%) used as comparison. Key study characteristics were assessed. An approach called positive deviance was used to identify the extent to which study characteristics were unique to high recruitment rate. Seventy-six percent of studies failed to report recruitment rates (n= 30 included for review). Studies with high recruitment rates (n = 8) tended to have longer study duration (mean 1.6 years) and target smaller cohorts of employees (mean n = 199) than comparison studies (3.9 months n = 1241). For recruitment strategies and intervention components of high studies, involvement of employees was driven by the organization, with PA interventions provided as part of the working day in paid time. These findings suggest a potential to improve recruitment through targeting small cohorts of employees, incorporating PA as a long-term strategy, facilitating organizationally driven employee involvement, and providing PA interventions during paid time.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-03-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.471
Abstract: Poor sleep quality is common among university students and can have negative implications for physical, emotional, cognitive and academic wellbeing. Previous research has identified that sleep beliefs and sleep behaviours are associated with poor sleep quality. However, few studies have examined these variables simultaneously. This study explored associations between dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, sleep hygiene and sleep quality in a s le of university students. Participants were recruited from a pool of undergraduate psychology students and included 120 male students and 145 female students with an average age of 20 years (SD = 5.10). Participants completed an online survey including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes About Sleep Scale, Sleep Hygiene Index and demographic items. Overall 60.4% of participants (59.4% of women, 40.6% of men) had poor sleep quality. Logistic regression indicated a significant positive association between sleep hygiene and sleep quality, OR = 1.16, P .001, 95% CI (1.10, 1.23), and no significant relationship between dysfunctional beliefs about sleep and sleep quality, OR = 1.03, P .79, 95% CI (0.84, 1.26), after adjusting for covariates. Sleep interventions for university students are needed and could focus on common hygiene components, such as using the bed for activities other than sleeping, engaging in arousing activities before bed and how to manage thinking and worrying before bed. So What? The results of the study demonstrate poor sleep quality is common among university students and indicates that sleep interventions are warranted. The positive association found between sleep hygiene and sleep quality highlights that interventions should focus on behavioural components of sleep.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1111/INM.12158
Abstract: The life expectancy of adults with mental illness is worse than that of the general population and is largely due to poor physical health status. Physical activity has been consistently recommended for the prevention and management of many chronic physical health conditions and can also have benefits for mental health. This cross sectional study assessed the attitudes towards and preferences for physical activity among inpatient adults with mental illness, and differences by distress and gender. Self-report questionnaires were completed by 101 patients. Findings indicated that inpatient adults with mental illness are interested in doing physical activity while in hospital, primarily to maintain good physical health and improve emotional wellbeing. Fewer than half of participants agreed that physical activity has benefits for serious mental illness. Participants indicated a preference for walking and physical activity that can be done alone, at a fixed time and with a set routine and format. Major barriers were fatigue and lack of motivation. Females were more likely than males to prefer activities done with others of the same gender (P = 0.001) and at the same level of ability (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences by level of distress. These findings can inform physical activity intervention programming in hospital settings, which may contribute to decreasing the chronic disease burden and improve the psychological wellbeing in adults with mental illness.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2005
DOI: 10.1123/JPAH.2.2.181
Abstract: This study assessed the relative contributions of psychological, social, and environmental variables to walking, moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity. A questionnaire was mailed to a random s le (57% response rate). Analyses used a backwards elimination logistic regression model, removing and replacing in idual variables, and adjusting for age, gender, household composition, and education ( N = 1827). The sociodemographic and correlate variables collectively accounted for 43% of the variation in total activity, 26% of walking, 22% of moderate-intensity activity and 45% of vigorous-intensity activity (Nagelkerke R 2 ). In idually, the correlates accounted for 0.0 to 4.0% of unique variation, with habit, efficacy, and support having higher values. Physical health, discouragement, competition, and time management contributed more to vigorous-intensity activity. Anticipated benefits of social interactions and weight management contributed more to moderate-intensity activity. Neighborhood aesthetics contributed more to walking. Walking, moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity might be associated with different correlates.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 13-10-2020
DOI: 10.3390/JCM9103277
Abstract: People with multiple myeloma (MM) often experience disease symptoms and treatment toxicities that can be alleviated through physical activity (PA). However, the majority of people with MM are insufficiently active. This study explored PA among people with MM, including differences by treatment stage, symptoms and demographics, and programming preferences. Overall, 126 people with MM (77% response rate) completed the survey. Pre-diagnosis, 25.4% were sufficiently active, with 12.0% remaining active after treatment. Respondents who were physically active pre-diagnosis were 46.7 times (95% confidence intervals CI: 2.03, 1072.1) more likely to meet PA guidelines following an MM diagnosis compared to people not meeting guidelines pre-diagnosis. Experiencing MM symptoms and receiving PA advice from healthcare professionals were not associated with meeting PA guidelines. People with MM were interested in exercise programs (55%) that are low-cost (77%), offered at flexible times (74%), and at locations close to home (69%), both during active treatment and remission (57%), and supervised by an exercise oncology specialist (48%). People with MM, particularly those insufficiently active prior to diagnosis, should be offered convenient, low-cost exercise programs supervised by an exercise oncology specialist to increase PA participation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-03-2022
DOI: 10.1111/COB.12519
Abstract: People with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at a greater risk of cardiovascular disease than the general population. Both non‐modifiable (age) and modifiable (low aerobic fitness, high body fatness) factors are separately predictive of cardiovascular risk, although they often occur concomitantly. This study aimed to examine the (1) association between age and arterial stiffness, a subclinical marker of cardiovascular risk and (2) effects of body fatness and aerobic fitness on age‐related increases in arterial stiffness in people with T2D. Data from 64 in iduals with T2D (age 59.8 ± 8.7 years, 40% female, HbA 1c 8.4 ± 1.6%) were included in this cross‐sectional analysis. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) was used to quantify arterial stiffness. Aerobic fitness (relative V̇O 2peak ) was determined via indirect calorimetry during maximal exercise testing. Central body fatness was determined using waist circumference. Data were analysed using hierarchical multiple regressions. After adjustment for sex and duration of T2D, each one standard deviation (SD) increase in age (8.68 years) was associated with a 0.63 m·s −1 increase in cfPWV ( β = 0.416, p = 0.001). Following adjustment for aerobic fitness and body fatness, the standardized β was unchanged (0.417). A one SD increase in waist circumference (13.9 cm) and relative V̇O 2peak (5.3 ml·kg −1 ·min −1 ) were associated with a similar magnitude of difference in cfPWV (0.47 m·s −1 and −0.44 m·s −1 , respectively). Therefore, age is a significant correlate of increased arterial stiffness in T2D, with higher aerobic fitness attenuating, and higher body fatness exacerbating, this increase. Interventions aimed at improving cardiovascular outcomes in people with T2D should target both increased aerobic fitness and reduced body fatness.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-11-2020
DOI: 10.1111/APA.15079
Abstract: To examine the relationships of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) with suicidal thoughts and behaviour among adolescents in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Global School-based Student Health Survey data from 206 357 students (14.6 ± 1.18 years 51% female) in 52 LMICs were used. Students reported on suicidal ideation, suicide planning, suicide attempts, PA, leisure-time SB and socio-demographic characteristics. Multilevel mixed-effects generalised linear modelling was used to examine the associations. High leisure-time SB (≥3 hours/day) was independently associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation, suicide planning and suicide attempts for both male and female adolescents. Insufficient PA (<60 mins/day) was not associated with higher odds of ideation for either sex however, it was associated with planning and attempts for male adolescents. The combination of insufficient PA and high SB, compared with sufficient PA and low SB, was associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation and suicide planning for both male and female adolescents, and suicide attempts for male adolescents. High SB may be an indicator of suicidal vulnerability among adolescents in LMICs. Low PA may be a more important risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviours among male, than female, adolescents. Promoting active lifestyle should be integrated into suicide prevention programmes in resource-poor settings.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2007.00008.X
Abstract: Many of the self-administered scales for measuring physical activity (PA) influences were originally developed for vigorous-intensity exercise, focus on only one domain of influence, and have not been evaluated for both reliability and validity using population-based s les. This study describes the factorial validity and internal reliability of scales for measuring in idual-level psychological, social, and environmental influences on leisure-time PA among adults in the general population. Constructs were identified from a literature review and formative research with a socio-economically erse s le. Items were generated using previously developed scales and interview data. New items were pre-tested using reliability and principal components analyses, with data collected from a mail survey sent to a randomly selected population-based s le. Qualitative feedback was obtained from a convenience s le and expert panel. A second mail survey provided data for principal components and reliability analyses. Twenty-eight scales were factorially derived and 24 had acceptable or marginally acceptable levels of internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha values ranging from 0.65 to 0.91. The 24 scales are suitable for researchers and practitioners interested in measuring in idual-level influences on PA that are consistent with Social Cognitive Theory. More research is required to assess predictive validity, sensitivity to change and test/re-test reliability.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2005.06.009
Abstract: Although many studies support an inverse association between physical activity (PA) and depressive symptoms, prospective relationships between these variables have been confounded by pre-existing psychological and physical health problems. This study examined the dose-response relationships between self-reported PA and depressive symptoms, using cross-sectional and prospective data from a population-based cohort of middle-aged women who participated in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) between 1996 and 2001. Participants completed three mailed surveys (S1, 1996 S2, 1998 S3, 2001), which included questions about time spent in walking, moderate- and vigorous-intensity PA, and measures of psychological health (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale [CESD-10], and Mental health [MH] subscale of the Short Form 36 survey). Relationships between previous (S1, S2), current (S3), and habitual (S1, S2, S3) PA and "depressive symptoms" were examined, adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related variables (n=9207). Mean CESD-10 scores decreased, and MH scores increased with increasing levels of previous, current, and habitual activity. Odds ratios for CESD-10 scores > or =10 or MH scores or =60 minutes of moderate-intensity PA per week, compared with those who reported less PA than this. Women who were in the lowest PA category at S1, but who subsequently reported > or =240 metabolic equivalent minutes (MET.mins) per week had lower odds of CESD-10 scores of > or =10 or MH scores < or =52 at S3 than those who remained in the very low PA category. These data suggest that there is a clear relationship between increasing PA and decreasing depressive symptoms in middle-aged women, independent of pre-existing physical and psychological health.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-04-2016
DOI: 10.3109/09638237.2016.1167847
Abstract: Adults with mental illness may have specific attitudes toward physical activity (PA). To assess the PA attitudes of non-institutionalised adults with mental illness, and associations with psychological distress. Participants completed questionnaires on activity preferences (type, context and sources of support), motivators, barriers and attitudes toward personal training (PT). Relationships between responses and distress were assessed using logistic regressions. One-hundred forty-two participants completed the questionnaires. PA context preferences included activities done close to home, outdoors, with professional instruction, with people of the same ability, as part of a healthy lifestyle program and with a social component. The most commonly endorsed source of support was an exercise instructor. Most respondents had never received PT however, PT had high acceptability. Common barriers included poor physical and mental health, and lack of money. Distress was positively associated with barriers of poor mental health, tiredness, disorganisation, exhaustion and being shy/embarrassed (p ≤ 0.001). Local outdoor walking groups that include social and healthy lifestyle components, and that are led by an exercise instructor who can provide support for overcoming barriers, may best meet PA interests of this group. PT could be an acceptable method for offering in idualised support.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-06-2021
DOI: 10.1007/S11764-021-01062-2
Abstract: To explore the attitudes and practices of clinical haematologists towards promoting physical activity (PA) and exercise for patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Using a quantitative cross-sectional survey, clinical haematologists reported on the perceived benefits and acceptability of PA and exercise and frequency, confidence and barriers to providing exercise advice. Clinical haematologists (n=34 68% response rate), who cumulatively treated ~340 patients with MM each week, completed the survey. Almost all (97%) agreed that PA was important, with benefits for quality of life, activities of daily living, mental health and fatigue. Whilst 88% discussed PA at least occasionally with their patients, approximately two-thirds were not confident advising specific exercises (68%) or identifying PA resources (62%). Despite this, 44% never referred patients to exercise professionals, with 18% only doing so if the patient asked. Over half did not recommend exercise when patients had spine fractures or were physically unwell. No differences were observed in in idual factors (age, gender, practice type and own PA participation) and promotion of PA. Clinical haematologists perceive PA as important, but lack confidence on what exercise/s to recommend and if exercise is appropriate for specific disease complications. They tend to not refer patients to exercise professionals. Patients with MM often suffer from symptoms and toxicities that may be alleviated through PA. However, PA participation rates are low. Support for clinical haematologists for when and how to discuss exercise, and clearer referral pathways to exercise professionals may improve PA uptake and hence ensure access to optimal care, thereby improving patient outcomes.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-07-2017
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 10-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2014.08.003
Abstract: Although physical activity can potentially reduce symptoms of arthritis, 50% of people with arthritis are insufficiently active. The aim was to identify psychosocial factors associated with increased physical activity in mid-age adults with arthritis who did not meet recommended physical activity levels. Longitudinal cohort study. Data were from 692 insufficiently active men and women (mean age 55 ± 6.6 years) with arthritis, who answered mailed surveys in 2007 and 2009 in the HABITAT study. Increased physical activity was defined as a change of ≥ 200 MET min/week in walking, moderate and vigorous activities from 2007 to 2009. Scale scores were used to measure psychosocial factors including intention, experiences, attitudes, efficacy, barriers, motivation, social support, and health professional advice. Associations between (1) 2007 psychosocial factors and (2) 2007-2009 improvement (≥ +1 standard deviation) in psychosocial factors and increased physical activity were examined with logistic regression models. Results were adjusted for education, body mass index, and self-rated health. Between 2007 and 2009, 296 participants (42.8%) increased their physical activity. Engagement, mastery and physical activity intention in 2007 were associated with this increase in physical activity (engagement OR = 1.11, 99% confidence interval (CI) = 1.05-1.17 mastery OR = 1.12, 99%CI = 1.02-1.22 physical activity intention OR = 1.29, 99%CI = 1.06-1.56). Improved scores for encouragement (OR = 2.07, CI = 1.07-4.01) and self-efficacy (OR =2 .27, CI = 1.30-3.97) were also significantly associated with increased physical activity. Positive physical activity experiences and intentions were predictors of increased physical activity among people with arthritis. Improved physical activity confidence and social support were associated with increased physical activity. It is important to consider these psychosocial factors when planning physical activity interventions for people with arthritis.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1038/OBY.2008.497
Abstract: This study examined the prospective associations of BMI, physical activity (PA), changes in BMI, and changes in PA, with depressive symptoms. Self-reported data on height, weight, PA, selected sociodemographic and health variables and depressive symptoms (CESD-10) were provided in 2000 and 2003 by 6,677 young adult women (22-27 years in 2000) participating in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Results of logistic regression analyses showed that the odds of developing depressive symptoms at follow-up (2003) were higher in women who were overweight or obese in 2000 than in healthy weight women, and lower in women who were active in 2000 than in sedentary women. Changes in BMI were significantly associated with increased odds of depressive symptoms at follow-up. Sedentary women who increased their activity had lower odds of depressive symptoms at follow-up than those who remained sedentary. Increases in activity among initially sedentary young women were protective against depressive symptoms even after adjusting for BMI changes. These findings indicate that overweight and obese young women are at risk of developing depressive symptoms. PA appears to be protective against the development of depressive symptoms, but does not attenuate the depressive symptoms associated with weight gain. However, among initially sedentary young women, even small increases in PA over time may reduce the odds of depressive symptoms, regardless of weight status.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2018.08.006
Abstract: There are few prospective data on temporal trends in overall sitting time for different domains of sitting. This study examined time trends over 6 years in total and domain-specific sitting time in mid-age Australian men and women. Self-report data from 5246 participants in four survey waves (2007, 2009, 2011, 2013) of the HABITAT study in Brisbane, Australia, were analysed. Overall trends in 'high' total sitting time (>8 h/day sitting) and five domains were examined: a) >5 h/day for TV b) >2 h/day for travel c) >2 h/day for home computer use d) >2 h/day for leisure and e) >6 h/day for work. Sitting to watch TV and sitting at work accounted for more than half of total sitting time. The proportions who reported high sitting for computer use at home increased from 25% in 2007 to 37% in 2013 in men and from 19% to 29% over the same period in women. High TV sitting time was reported by 11.8% of men and 10.2% of women. These estimates increased to 16.5% and 13.2% respectively over the six years. In conclusion, although overall total sitting time remained fairly stable, there were significant increases in sitting time in some domains (home computer use and TV viewing) and in some sub-groups (such as women, and the employed). These increases were countered by declines in work-related sitting due to retirement.
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 20-01-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-05-2018
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.164
Abstract: Many Australian employees now regularly work from home in some capacity. This new way of working has not been widely studied in relation to the potential implications for employees' health-related behaviour or workplace health promotion. The aim of this study was to explore office-based employees' perceptions of the impact of flexible work on physical activity and sedentary behaviour and preferences for associated interventions. Three focus groups were conducted with office-based employees (n = 28) 6 months after the introduction of a flexible work policy. A semi-structured interview format with open-ended questions was used with summary statements to check understanding. Sessions were audiotaped, and dominant themes were identified. Findings on intervention preferences were interpreted using a social cognitive framework. An overview of results was provided to a group of managers (n = 9) for comment. Employees reported that physical activity was not impacted, but sedentary behaviour had increased, with flexible work. Intervention preferences focussed on occupational sedentary behaviour, self-regulation, prompts and social connections, and not the physical work environment. Managers agreed with employees' preferences and also wanted interventions to be sustainable. Self-directed interventions with social components and targeting occupational sedentary behaviour were more acceptable than physical activity interventions in this flexible workplace. SO WHAT?: Health promotion for workplaces with flexible work practices may benefit from prioritising strategies that promote self-regulation and social connections rather than being linked to the physical worksite.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 11-2016
Abstract: The time spent by adolescents in electronic screen-based activities has been associated with obesity and other adverse health outcomes however, little is known about screen-based behaviors in Asian adolescents. The purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence, patterns, and correlates of recreational screen-based behaviors among adolescents in Bangladesh. A total of 758 students (52% girls), aged 13 to 16 years, from 8 secondary schools of Dhaka city, Bangladesh, completed a survey in which the Adolescent Sedentary Activity Questionnaire was used to collect information on screen time. Total screen time was categorized as ≤2 h/day (low) or h/day (high). Approximately 79% of the adolescents had high recreational screen time, with similar values for boys (78%) and girls (80%). Median reported recreational screen time was 4.0 h/day boys had longer times (4.3 h/day) than girls (3.6 h/day). Multivariable analyses showed that high screen time was more common among boys than girls and was positively associated with commuting to school by car, consumption of fast food ≥3 times/week, having sleep disturbance, and high family income. This study identified high rates of recreational screen time among urban adolescents in Bangladesh and specific correlates of prolonged screen time the results underscore the need to develop pragmatic strategies to reduce sedentariness among adolescents in Bangladesh.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2009
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 30-03-2022
DOI: 10.1177/14034948221082459
Abstract: Prolonged screen time (ST) is a potential concern for poor wellbeing. This study aimed to examine the associations of different types of ST with life satisfaction among adolescents. Data were from 380,446 adolescents (aged 11–15 years, 51% girls) across 37 European and North American countries who completed the 2010 and 2014 Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children surveys. Participants reported h/day during free time spent on television, electronic games, and computer/other devices. Life satisfaction was assessed using a 10-point scale (low life satisfaction ⩽5). Generalized additive modelling showed non-linear associations for each ST type, with low life satisfaction increasing monotonically for h/day of electronic gaming or computer/other device and h/day of watching television. Multilevel multivariable modelling showed that h/day of watching television was associated with 26% higher odds for boys (OR 1.26 95% CI:1.21–1.32) and 52% higher odds for girls (1.52 1.46–1.59) of low life satisfaction than for ⩽1 h/day of television. Electronic gaming h/day was associated with low life satisfaction with odds 42% higher in boys (1.42, 1.36–1.48) and 69% higher in girls (1.69, 1.61–1.76). A similar association was found for h/day of computer/other device for boys (1.43, 1.37–1.49) and girls (1.71, 1.65–1.77). Low levels of ST may be beneficial however, prolonged periods are associated with low life satisfaction among adolescents, in particular among girls. Results support ⩽2 h/day restriction of ST and highlight research is needed to understand underlying mechanisms of ST and wellbeing, which may not reflect active versus passive content.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1080/13548501003758710
Abstract: Despite many studies on the characteristics associated with resilience, there is little research on interventions to promote resilience in adults. The aims of this study were to gather preliminary information regarding the feasibility of implementing a group psychosocial resilience training program (REsilience and Activity for every DaY, READY) in a workplace setting, and to assess if program would potentially promote well-being. The program targets five protective factors identified from empirical evidence: Positive emotions, cognitive flexibility, social support, life meaning, and active coping. Resilience enhancement strategies reflect core acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) processes and cognitive behavior therapy strategies. Sessions involve psychoeducation, discussions, experiential exercises, and home assignments. Sixteen participants completed 11 x two h group sessions over 13 weeks. Baseline and post-intervention assessment included self-administered questionnaires, pedometer step counts, and physical and hematological measures. Data were analyzed using standardized mean differences and paired t-tests. There was a significant improvement between baseline and post intervention scores on measures of mastery (p = 0.001), positive emotions (p = 0.002), personal growth (p = 0.004), mindfulness (p = 0.004), acceptance (p = 0.012), stress (p = 0.013), self acceptance (p = 0.016), valued living (p = 0.022), autonomy (p = 0.032) and total cholesterol (p = 0.025). Participants rated the program and materials very highly. These results indicate that the READY program is feasible to implement as a group training program in a workplace setting to promote psychosocial well-being.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-05-2017
DOI: 10.1111/INM.12343
Abstract: The life expectancy of adults with mental illness is significantly less than that of the general population, and this is largely due to poor physical health. Behavioural counselling can improve physical health indicators among people with non-communicable disease. This repeated-measures, single-group intervention trial evaluated the effects of a 19-week behavioural counselling programme on metabolic health indicators and physical activity levels of outpatient adults with mental illness. Sixteen participants completed the intervention that comprised in idual face-to-face counselling sessions with a registered nurse every 3 weeks, and progress reviews with a medical practitioner every 6 weeks. Assessment included self-report and objective measurement of physical activity, and measures of blood pressure and anthropometry. Statistically-significant changes were demonstrated between baseline and post intervention for participants' waist circumference (P = 0.035) and waist-to-height ratio (P = 0.037). Non-significant improvements were demonstrated in weight and physical activity. The findings indicated that adults with mental illness can engage in a nurse-led behavioural counselling intervention, with improvements in some metabolic health measures after 19 weeks. It is recommended that behavioural counselling programmes for adults with mental illness be sustained over time and have an 'open door' policy to allow for attendance interruptions, such as hospitalization.
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 20-01-2023
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-02-2019
Abstract: Introduction: With two thirds of adults in paid employment and one third physically inactive, workplaces are an important setting for promoting more physical activity. We explored the attitudes and practices of employees and managers from different industries towards sitting and moving at work, to inform the development of acceptable solutions for encouraging businesses to adopt activity-promoting workplaces. Method: We conducted focus groups with employees and structured interviews with upper/middle managers from 12 organisations in a range of industries (e.g., education, healthcare, manufacturing, construction, insurance, mining). Topics focused on past and current workplace health and wellness initiatives, workplace culture and environment related to physical activity, responsibility for employee physical activity patterns at work, and enablers of/barriers to activity promoting workplaces. Results: Physical activity was not an explicit priority in existing occupational health and wellness initiatives. Instead, there was a strong focus on education about preventing and managing injuries, such as manual handling among non-office workers and desk-based ergonomics for office workers. Physical activity was viewed as a strategy for maintaining work ability and preventing injury, particularly in blue-collar staff, rather than for chronic disease prevention. Managers noted structural/organisational barriers/enablers to promoting physical activity at work (e.g., regulations, costs, competing concerns), while employees tended to focus on in idual constraints such as time and geographic location. The issues of "initiative overload" and making physical activity a part of “business as usual” emerged as strong themes from employees and managers. Conclusions: While there is stakeholder enthusiasm for creating activity-promoting workplaces, multi-level support is needed to make physical activity an integral part of day-to-day business. The synergism between occupational health and safety priorities could be leveraged to facilitate the creation of activity-promoting workplaces.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2003
Abstract: This qualitative study explored how influences on recreational physical activity (RPA) were patterned by socioeconomic position. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 10 males and 10 females in three socioeconomic groups ( N = 60). Influences salient across all groups included previous opportunities, physical health, social assistance, safety, environmental aesthetics and urban design, physical and health benefits, and barriers of self-consciousness, low skill, and weather/time of year. Influences more salient to the high socioeconomic group included social benefits, achieving a balanced lifestyle, and the barrier of an unpredictable lifestyle. Influences more salient to the high and mid socioeconomic groups included efficacy, perceived need, activity demands, affiliation, emotional benefits, and the barrier of competing demands. Influences more salient to the low socioeconomic group included poor health and barriers of inconvenient access and low personal functioning. Data suggest that efforts to increase RPA in the population should include both general and socioeconomically targeted strategies.
Publisher: Xia & He Publishing
Date: 21-04-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 16-10-2008
Abstract: To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and effects of a Tai Chi and Qigong exercise programme in adults with elevated blood glucose. A single group pre-post feasibility trial with 11 participants (3 male and 8 female aged 42-65 years) with elevated blood glucose. Participants attended Tai Chi and Qigong exercise training for 1 to 1.5 h, 3 times per week for 12 weeks, and were encouraged to practise the exercises at home. Indicators of metabolic syndrome (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol) glucose control (HbA1c, fasting insulin and insulin resistance (HOMA)) health-related quality of life stress and depressive symptoms. There was good adherence and high acceptability. There were significant improvements in four of the seven indicators of metabolic syndrome including BMI (mean difference -1.05, p<0.001), waist circumference (-2.80 cm, p<0.05), and systolic (-11.64 mm Hg, p<0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (-9.73 mm Hg, p<0.001), as well as in HbA1c (-0.32%, p<0.01), insulin resistance (-0.53, p<0.05), stress (-2.27, p<0.05), depressive symptoms (-3.60, p<0.05), and the SF-36 mental health summary score (5.13, p<0.05) and subscales for general health (19.00, p<0.01), mental health (10.55, p<0.01) and vitality (23.18, p<0.05). The programme was feasible and acceptable and participants showed improvements in metabolic and psychological variables. A larger controlled trial is now needed to confirm these promising preliminary results.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 2018
Abstract: Purpose: Menstruation and menstrual symptoms are commonly cited barriers to physical activity in women. The delay or avoidance of menstruation through extended oral-contraceptive (OC) regimens may mitigate these barriers, yet information on menstrual-manipulation practices in young physically active women is sparse. The objective of this study was to investigate prevalence of, and reasons for, menstrual manipulation with OCs in recreationally and competitively active women. Methods: One hundred ninety-one recreationally active (self-reported moderate to vigorous physical activity 150–300 min/wk) women (age 23 ± 5 y), 160 subelite recreationally active (self-reported moderate to vigorous physical activity min/wk) women (age 23 ± 5 y), and 108 competitive (state-, national- or international-level) female athletes (age 23 ± 4 y) completed a self-administered questionnaire assessing OC-regimen habits and reasons for manipulation of menstruation. Results: The majority (74%) of OC users reported having deliberately manipulated menstruation at least once during the previous year, with 29% reporting having done so at least 4 times. Prevalence of menstrual manipulation (at least once in the previous year) was not different between competitive athletes, subelite recreationally active women, and recreationally active women (77% vs 74% vs 72% P .05). The most cited reasons for manipulating menstruation were special events or holidays (rated by 75% as important/very important), convenience (54%), and sport competition (54%). Conclusions: Menstrual manipulation through extended OC regimens is common practice in recreationally and competitively active young women, for a range of reasons relating to convenience that are not limited to physical activity. This strategy may help reduce hormone-related barriers to exercise participation, thereby positively affecting participation and performance.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-03-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-022-12905-7
Abstract: Socioeconomic disadvantage is associated with mental illness, yet its relationship with mental well-being is unclear. Mental well-being is defined as feeling good and functioning well. Benefits of mental well-being include reduced mortality, improved immune functioning and pain tolerance, and increased physical function, pro-social behaviour, and academic and job performance. This study aimed to explore the relationship between in idual socioeconomic position (SEP), neighbourhood disadvantage and mental well-being in mid-age adults. Multilevel modelling was used to analyse data collected from 7866 participants from the second (2009) wave of HABITAT (How Areas in Brisbane Influence healTh and activiTy), a longitudinal study (2007–2016) of adults aged 40–65 years living in Brisbane, Australia. Mental well-being was measured using the Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS). Exposure measures were education, occupation, household income, and neighbourhood socioeconomic disadvantage. The lowest MWB scores were observed for the least educated (β = − 1.22, 95%CI = − 1.74, − 0.71), those permanently unable to work (β = − 5.50, 95%CI = − 6.90, − 4.10), the unemployed (β = − 2.62, 95%CI = − 4.12, − 1.13), and members of low-income households (β = − 3.77, 95%CI = − 4.59, − 2.94). Residents of the most disadvantaged neighbourhoods had lower MWB scores than those living in the least disadvantaged neighbourhoods, after adjustment for in idual-level SEP (β = − 0.96, 95%CI = − 1.66, − 0.28). Both in idual-level SEP and neighbourhood disadvantage are associated with mental well-being although the association is stronger for in idual-level SEP. This research highlights the need to address in idual and neighbourhood-level socioeconomic determinants of mental well-being.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-09-2019
DOI: 10.1111/APA.14553
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 15-01-2023
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 07-2015
Abstract: There is growing evidence that regular physical activity (PA) reduces the risk of poor mental health. Less research has focused on the relationship between PA and positive wellbeing. The study aims were to assess the prospective associations between PA and optimism, in both young and mid-aged women. 9688 young women (born 1973–1978) completed self-report surveys in 2000 (age 22 to 27), 2003, 2006, and 2009 and 11,226 mid-aged women (born 1946–1951) completed surveys in 2001 (age 50–55) 2004, 2007, and 2010, as part of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health. Generalized estimating equation models (with 3-year time lag) were used to examine the relationship between PA and optimism in both cohorts. In both cohorts, women reporting higher levels of PA had greater odds of reporting higher optimism over the 9-year period, (young, OR = 5.04, 95% CI: 3.85–6.59 mid-age, OR = 5.77, 95% CI: 4.76–7.00) than women who reported no PA. Odds were attenuated in adjusted models, with depression accounting for a large amount of this attenuation (young, OR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.57–2.55 mid-age, OR = 1.64 95% CI: 1.38–1.94). Physical activity can promote optimism in young and mid-aged women over time, even after accounting for the negative effects of other psychosocial indicators such as depression.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 05-2008
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-04-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2008.00305.X
Abstract: To assess the test-retest reliability and validity of a modified self-administered version of the Active Australia physical activity survey. One hundred and fifty-nine mid-age women (54-59 years) completed a mailed physical activity questionnaire before recording daily pedometer step counts for seven consecutive days. A random subs le (n=44) also wore an accelerometer during this period. Participants then completed the physical activity questionnaire again. Spearman's rho and per cent agreement were used to assess test-retest reliability. Self-reported physical activity data (time 2) were compared with pedometer and accelerometer data using box plots and Spearman's correlations to assess validity. Median time between surveys was 13 days. Median frequency and duration of moderate and vigorous physical activity were the same at both surveys, but median walking frequency was slightly higher at time 2 than time 1. Reliability coefficients for frequency/time in each domain of physical activity ranged from 0.56-0.64 and per cent agreement scores ranged from 40% to 65% for the physical activity categories agreement was 76% for 'meeting guidelines'. Correlations (p) between self-reported physical activity and 1) weekly pedometer steps and 2) accelerometer data for duration of at least moderate intensity physical activity were 0.43 and 0.52 respectively. The measurement properties of this modified self-administered physical activity survey are similar to those reported for the original computer assisted telephone interview survey. This modified version of the Active Australia survey is suitable for use in self-administered format.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 08-2011
DOI: 10.1123/JPAH.8.6.829
Abstract: Further development of high quality measures of neighborhood perceptions will require extensions and refinements to our existing approaches to reliability assessment. This study examined the test-retest reliability of perceptions of the neighborhood environment by socioeconomic status (SES). Test and retest surveys were conducted using a mail survey method with persons aged 40 to 65 years (n = 222, 78.2% response rate). SES was measured using the respondent’s education level and the socioeconomic characteristics of their neighborhood of residence. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlations (ICC) estimated with random coefficient models. Overall, the 27 items had moderate-to-substantial reliability (ICC = 0.41−0.74). Few statistically significant differences were found in ICC between the education groups or neighborhoods, although the ICCs were significantly larger among the low SES for items that measured perceptions of neighborhood greenery, interesting things to see, litter, traffic volume and speed, crime, and rowdy youth on the streets. For the majority of the items, poor reliability and subsequent exposure misclassification is no more or less likely among low educated respondents and residents of disadvantaged neighborhoods. Estimates of the association between neighborhood perceptions and physical activity therefore are likely to be similarly precise irrespective of the respondent’s socioeconomic background.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-10-2022
Abstract: Psychological distress is highly prevalent and associated with significant adverse health outcomes and economic burden. Mastery and physical activity are potential resources to reduce distress and promote wellbeing however, previous research has not examined their potential interactive relationship over time. The purpose of this study was to explore associations between mastery, physical activity, and distress in mid-aged adults over nine years. Data from a longitudinal mail survey study including the Kessler 6, Pearlin Mastery Scale, and items assessing time spent in physical activity were examined in a s le of 4404 adults aged 40 to 54 years at baseline. Group-Based Trajectory Models identified two distinct trajectories of psychological distress (elevated and low). Generalized Estimating Equations were used to assess mastery and physical activity, adjusting for sociodemographic and health variables, as predictors for the probability of distress group membership. The odds of elevated distress over time were significantly reduced in people with higher mastery (OR = 0.13 95% 0.11–0.15) and doing at least 150 min/week of physical activity (OR = 0.81 95% 0.68–0.96). There was no significant interaction between mastery and physical activity. Mastery and physical activity may be important resources to mitigate distress and further research is needed to evaluate interventions promoting these resources and the impact on mid-aged adults experiencing psychological distress.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 08-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2000
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2006
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2019.105773
Abstract: The mental health benefits of resistance training (RT) alone or beyond those provided by aerobic physical activity (PA) are unclear. This study aimed to determine the association between meeting recommendations for aerobic PA and/or RT, and symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Participants were Australian female members of the 10,000 Steps project (n = 5180, 50.0 ± 11.5 years). Symptoms of depression and anxiety were determined using the Depression Anxiety Stress Score. Participants were grouped as 'depression only', 'anxiety only', 'co-occurring depression and anxiety' or 'neither depression nor anxiety' based on relevant subscale score (cut-points: depression≥14 points, anxiety≥10 points). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Long Form questionnaire was used to determine PA with an additional item to specify RT frequency. Participants were classified as adhering to 'aerobic PA only' (≥150 min PA/week), 'RT only' (RT ≥ 2 days/week), 'aerobic PA + RT' (≥150 min PA/week+RT ≥ 2 days/week), or 'neither aerobic PA nor RT' (<150 min PA/week+RT < 2 days/week). Adjusted relative risk ratios (RRR [95%CI]) were estimated using multinomial logistic regression models. Relative to the 'neither PA nor RT' (n = 2215), the probabilities of 'depression only' (n = 317) and 'co-occurring depression and anxiety' (n = 417) were lower for the 'aerobic PA only' (n = 1590) (RRR = 0.74 [0.56-0.97] and RRR = 0.76 [0.59-0.97] respectively), and 'both PA + RT' (n = 974) groups (RRR = 0.61 [0.43-0.86] and RRR = 0.47 [0.33-0.67] respectively). There were no associations between adhering to one or both recommendations and 'anxiety only' (n = 317), or between 'RT only' (n = 401) and depression and/or anxiety. Prevention and treatment strategies including both aerobic PA and RT may provide additional benefits for depression with or without comorbid anxiety.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2012
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1071/HE11038
Abstract: There is increasing interest in the potential association between sedentary behaviour and poor health. This study examined office-based employees' perceptions of the health risks associated with prolonged sitting at work, and strategies to interrupt and reduce occupational sitting time. Four focus groups were conducted with a convenience s le of Australian government personnel (20 women and two men). Open-ended questions concerning health risks and sitting reduction strategies were posed by lead researchers and focus group participants invited to express opinions, viewpoints and experiences. Audio recordings and summary notes of focus group discussions were reviewed by researchers to identify key response themes. Employees associated prolonged occupational sitting with poor health, primarily in terms of musculoskeletal issues, fatigue and de-motivation.This risk was seen as independent of physical activity. Workplace interventions tailored to occupational roles were viewed as important and considered to be the joint responsibility of in iduals and organisations. Strategies included workload planning (interspersing sedentary and non-sedentary tasks), environmental change (e.g. stairwell access, printers away from desks), work tasks on the move (e.g. walking meetings) and purposive physical activity (e.g. periodic breaks, exercise/walking groups).The perception that these strategies would compromise productivity was identified as the primary barrier to implementation team leaders were subsequently considered vital in enabling integration and acceptance of strategies into everyday workplace practices. Prolonged occupational sitting was perceived as detrimental to health. Suggested strategies targeted in iduals, workplaces, organisations and environments.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 26-10-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0276761
Abstract: Diabetes is on the rise as the worldwide population ages. While physical activity can help protect against diabetes, ageing is commonly associated with reduced physical activity. This study aimed to examine if physical activity differs by diabetes status in mid-aged adults, how this association changes over time, and whether physical activity-related sociodemographic factors and health indicators differ in those with and without diabetes. Data came from four waves of the How Areas in Brisbane Influence HealTh and AcTivity (HABITAT), a longitudinal study of mid-age adults living in Brisbane, Australia. Random effects/Expectation-maximisation (RE-EM) regression trees were used to identify factors affecting physical activity among those with and without diabetes, both separately and combined. At study entry, those with diabetes had a higher median age of 58 years (95% CI: 57–60) and a lower median physical activity of 699 MET.min/week (95% CI: 599–799) than people without diabetes (53 years (95% CI: 53–53) and 849 MET.min/week (95% CI: 799–899)). However, the strongest factors influencing physical activity were BMI and gender, not diabetes status. It is vital to promote physical activity among adults, in particular among those with high BMI and women, as well as those with and at high risk of diseases like diabetes.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-07-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-08-2023
DOI: 10.1111/EJE.12837
Abstract: Dentistry professionals may experience significantly higher occupational stress than other health professionals and dentistry academics may have specific work content and context sources of stress. The aim of this study is to identify common sources of occupational stress, and how these are associated with wellbeing, in dentistry academics. A cross‐sectional online survey with staff in Dentistry departments in Australia and New Zealand. Assessment included 23 items from five general domains of occupational stress from the NIOSH—Generic Job Stress Questionnaire, a 23‐item list of sources of stress and the 22‐item Psychological General Well‐Being Index. Analyses used descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. A total of 107 respondents (average age 50 ± 11.7 years, 56.8% men) completed the survey. Leading sources of occupational stress were job future, time pressure at work, work overload, and administration demands. A multiple linear regression model significantly predicted wellbeing, F (8,77) = 13.141, p = .000, adj. R 2 = .53, but there were no significant associations for any of the specific sources of stress. The combination of time pressure, workload and responsibility, job dissatisfaction, low social support, and uncertain job future was inversely associated with wellbeing amongst these dentistry academics. Future studies should consider the development and evaluation of interventions to address these concerns.
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 04-2023
DOI: 10.1001/JAMACARDIO.2022.5437
Abstract: It is unclear how to effectively promote walking in people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). To test whether brief counseling delivered by allied health professionals increases step count in participants with PAD. In this randomized clinical trial, participants with symptomatic PAD were recruited from sites in Australia and randomly allocated 1:1 to the counseling intervention or an attention control. Data were collected from January 2015 to July 2021, and data were analyzed from March to November 2022. Two 1-hour face-to-face and two 15-minute telephone counseling sessions designed to increase walking. The primary outcome was the between-group difference in change in daily step count estimated by accelerometer recordings over 7 days at baseline and 4 months, using imputation for missing values. Other outcomes at 4, 12, and 24 months included step count, 6-minute walk distance, and disease-specific and generic measures of health-related quality of life. Risk of major adverse limb events was assessed over 24 months. Of 200 included participants, 144 (72.0%) were male, and the mean (SD) age was 69.2 (9.3) years. The planned s le of 200 participants was allocated to the counseling intervention group (n = 102) or attention control group (n = 98). Overall, 198 (99.0%), 175 (87.5%), 160 (80.0%) and 143 (71.5%) had step count assessed at entry and 4, 12, and 24 months, respectively. There was no significant between-group difference in the primary outcome of change in daily step count over 4 months (mean steps, 415 95% CI, −62 to 893 P = .07). Participants in the counseling group had significantly greater improvement in the secondary outcome of disease-specific Intermittent Claudication Questionnaire score at 4 months (3.2 points 95% CI, 0.1-6.4 P = .04) and 12 months (4.3 points 95% CI, 0.5-8.1 P = .03) but not at 24 months (1.2 points 95% CI, −3.1 to 5.6 P = .57). Findings were similar for mean PAD Quality of Life Questionnaire component assessing symptoms and limitations in physical functioning (4 months: 1.5 points 95% CI, 0.3-2.8 P = .02 12 months: 1.8 points 95% CI, 0.3-3.3 P = .02 24 months: 1.3 points 95% CI. −0.5 to 3.1 P = .16). There was no significant effect of the intervention on change in mean 6-minute walking distance (4 months: 9.3 m 95% CI, −3.7 to 22.3 P = .16 12 months: 13.8 m 95% CI, −4.2 to 31.7 P = .13 24 months: 1.2 m 95% CI, −20.0 to 22.5 P = .91). The counseling intervention did not affect the rate of major adverse limb events over 24 months (12 [6.0%] in the intervention group vs 11 [5.5%] in the control group P & .99). This randomized clinical trial found no significant effect of brief counseling on step count in people with PAD. Alternate interventions are needed to enable walking. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Identifier: ACTRN12614000592640
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2008.10.016
Abstract: To assess whether combinations of leisure-time physical activity (PA) and occupational sitting were associated with steps/day and objectively measured body mass index (BMI) in women aged 54-59 years. In 2005, 158 women (age=56.4+/-1.4) living in Brisbane, Australia, were measured for height and weight, wore a pedometer for 7 days, and reported frequency and duration of leisure-time PA and extent of occupational sitting. Four groups were formed: (1) sufficiently active and some/little/no occupational sitting (n=52) (2) sufficiently active and mostly/all occupational sitting (n=29) (3) insufficiently active and some/little/no occupational sitting (n=43) and (4) insufficiently active and mostly/all occupational sitting (n=34). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to examine group differences in mean steps/day and BMI. Mean+/-standard deviation (SD) steps/day for each group (indicated by numerical order above) was: (1) 9997+/-2854 (2) 9424+/-3120 (3) 8995+/-2965 (4) 7276+/-2816 [F(3,154)=6.139, p=.001]. BMI (kg/m(2)) was: (1) 25.5+/-3.9) (2) 26.9+/-4.1 (3) 26.5+/-4.7 (4) 29.7+/-7.9 [F(3,154)=4.57, p=.004]. Mean steps/day were significantly lower, and BMI significantly higher, in group 4 than in all other groups. No other differences were significant. These cross-sectional data suggest that it might be important to consider both leisure-time PA and occupational sitting when considering strategies to increase steps/day and promote healthy BMI in mid-age women.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-07-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSHS.2022.02.002
Abstract: Physical inactivity and insomnia symptoms are independently associated with increased risk of depression and anxiety however, few studies jointly examine these risk factors. This study aimed to prospectively examine the joint association of physical activity (PA) and insomnia symptoms with onset of poor mental health in adults. Participants from the 2013-2018 annual waves of the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia panel study who had good mental health (Mental Health Inventory-5 >54) in 2013, and who completed at least one follow-up survey (2014-2018), were included (n = 10,977). Poor mental health (Mental Health Inventory-5 ≤ 54) was assessed annually. Baseline (2013) PA was classified as high/moderate/low, and insomnia symptoms (i.e., trouble sleeping) were classified as no insomnia symptoms/insomnia symptoms, with six mutually exclusive PA-insomnia symptom groups derived. Associations of PA-insomnia symptom groups with onset of poor mental health were examined using discrete-time proportional-hazards logit-hazard models. There were 2322 new cases of poor mental health (21.2%). Relative to the high PA/no insomnia symptoms group, there were higher odds (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval (95%CI)) of poor mental health among the high PA/insomnia symptoms (OR = 1.87, 95%CI: 1.57-2.23), moderate PA/insomnia symptoms (OR = 1.93, 95%CI: 1.61-2.31), low PA/insomnia symptoms (OR = 2.33, 95%CI: 1.96-2.78), and low PA/no insomnia symptoms (OR = 1.14, 95%CI: 1.01-1.29) groups. Any level of PA combined with insomnia symptoms was associated with increased odds of poor mental health, with the odds increasing as PA decreased. These findings highlight the potential benefit of interventions targeting both PA and insomnia symptoms for promoting mental health.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-10-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-022-14333-Z
Abstract: Raw data from accelerometers can provide valuable insights into specific attributes of physical activity, such as time spent in intensity-specific activity. The aim of this study was to describe physical activity assessed with raw data from triaxial wrist-worn accelerometers in mid-age Australian adults. Data were from 700 mid-age adults living in Brisbane, Australia (mean age: 60.4 SD:7.1 years). Data from a non-dominant wrist worn triaxial accelerometer (Actigraph wGT3X-BT), expressed as acceleration in gravitational equivalent units (1 mg = 0.001 g ), were used to estimate time spent in moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA m g ) using different bout criteria (non-bouted, 1-, 5-, and 10-min bouts), and the proportion of participants who spent an average of at least one minute per day in vigorous physical activity. Mean acceleration was 23.2 mg (SD: 7.5) and did not vary by gender (men: 22.4 women: 23.7 p-value: 0.073) or education (p-value: 0.375). On average, mean acceleration was 10% (2.5 m g ) lower per decade of age from age 55y. The median durations in non-bouted, 1-min, 5-min and 10-min MVPA bouts were, respectively, 68 (25th -75th : 45–99), 26 (25th -75th : 12–46), 10 (25th -75th : 3–24) and 8 (25th -75th : 0–19) min/day. Around one third of the s le did at least one minute per day in vigorous intensity activities. This population-based cohort provided a detailed description of physical activity based on raw data from accelerometers in mid-age adults in Australia. Such data can be used to investigate how different patterns and intensities of physical activity vary across the day/week and influence health outcomes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PUHE.2016.12.011
Abstract: Despite the widely acknowledged public health importance of physical activity (PA), few studies have examined levels of PA in Bangladesh. The purpose of this study was to investigate the patterns and correlates of PA in adolescents in Bangladesh. Cross-sectional survey. A total of 798 students, aged 13-17 years 48% girls, from eight purposively selected secondary schools in Dhaka city, Bangladesh completed a self-administered questionnaire including the 3-Day PA Recall. Parents completed a separate questionnaire to provide household/family-level data. Multilevel generalized linear modelling was used to identify the correlates of PA for boys and girls. Two-thirds (66%) of the adolescents met the recommendations of 60 min/day of moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) daily, with more boys than girls (76% and 55%, respectively). The most common activities reported were walking for travel (42%), cricket (33%) and household chores (30%). Multivariable modelling showed that girls' PA was positively associated with mother's education level, walking to school, involvement in school sports and having home sports equipment. Boys' PA was positively associated with mother's employment, having home sports equipment, having a playground at school and walking to school. One third of adolescents in Bangladesh were insufficiently active with girls less active than boys. Walking to school and access to sports facilities including playgrounds and home equipment may be important to promote activity among Bangladeshi adolescents, with special attention to the girls.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-04-2008
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2012
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-11-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-04-2010
DOI: 10.1007/S12529-010-9087-8
Abstract: Physical activity can provide psychological benefits, but there is little research on psychologists' promoting activity as part of psychological treatment. This study assessed psychologists' attitudes to and frequency of providing activity advice and counseling. A mail questionnaire sent to 620 psychologists provided 236 responses (38%). Items assessed frequency of providing activity advice and counseling, confidence to provide activity advice and counseling, perceived efficacy of activity for managing physical and psychological conditions, acceptability of activity advice and counseling, knowledge of national activity guidelines, exposure to training in activity promotion, and practice and sociodemographic characteristics. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses. Among respondents, 83% reported often recommending activity, 67% often provided activity advice, and 28% often did activity counseling. There was a high level of acceptability for physical activity promotion as part of psychological treatment. Over 80% of respondents were confident to provide general activity advice, discuss activity options, and problem solve barriers to activity, but less than half were confident to monitor activity levels or to tailor advice. Factors significantly associated with providing activity advice and counseling were: if the psychologist reported doing regular exercise, confidence to provide general activity advice, high acceptability, working in private practice, and clients presenting with general health and well-being issues (p < 0.05). Seventy-two percent of respondents were interested in attending a workshop on providing activity advice and counseling. Many psychologists are willing and potentially able to promote physical activity as part of psychological treatment and would be likely to participate in relevant professional development.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-01-2014
DOI: 10.1002/MPR.1431
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-01-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.13035
Abstract: Negative attitudes towards ageing have been associated with poor mental well‐being, and protective factors are not well‐understood. This study examined the relationship between ageing attitudes and symptoms of anxiety and depression, and the potential moderating effect of age, and buffering effects of social support, physical activity and education. This study used a subs le of 482 adults aged 50+ years from a mail questionnaire study in Brisbane, Australia. Data were analysed using linear regression. People with more positive ageing attitudes reported fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, with no moderating effect of age. There was a significant interaction between ageing attitudes and education on depression, and a similar trend for anxiety. This study confirmed the adverse impacts of negative ageing attitudes on mental health and indicated that those with low education may be most vulnerable. This has implications for future research and targeting interventions for mental health promotion.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 02-08-2021
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002768
Abstract: Innovative strategies are needed to enable people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) to self-manage physical activity (PA). Personal Activity Intelligence (PAI) is a new metric that uses the heart rate response to PA to inform the user as to whether they are doing enough PA to reduce the risk of premature mortality. The PAI score reflects PA over the previous 7 d with the goal to maintain a score ≥100. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of the PAI e-Health Program in people with T2D. Thirty participants with T2D who were not meeting PA guidelines were randomly assigned to 12 wk of either 1) PAI e-Health Program or 2) PA attention control. The PAI e-Health Program consisted of receiving a wrist-worn heart rate monitor and an app with the PAI metric, and attending 4 × 2 h·wk −1 sessions of exercise and counseling. Feasibility and acceptability of the program were evaluated by achievement of a PAI score ≥100 and participant feedback. Efficacy was determined from changes in glycemic control, cardiorespiratory fitness, exercise capacity (time-on-test), body composition, sleep time, and health-related quality of life. Program participants in the PAI e-Health Program had a mean ± SD PAI score of 119.7 ± 60.6 and achieved ≥100 PAI on 56.4% of the days. The majority of participants (80%) intended to continue to use PAI monitoring. Compared with control, the PAI group significantly improved their exercise capacity (mean difference, 95% confidence interval) (63 s, 17.9–108.0 s), sleep time (67.2 min, 7.2–127.1 min), total percent body fat (−1.3%, −2.6% to −0.1%), and gynoid fat percent (−1.5%, −2.6 to −0.5). The PAI e-Health Program is feasible, acceptable, and efficacious in people with T2D.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.PUHE.2019.10.004
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine physical activity (PA) attitudes among adolescents in Bangladesh and their associations with sociodemographic, lifestyle and activity-related factors. Cross-sectional study. A total of 781 students (52% female mean age 14.3 years, SD 1.1) from eight secondary schools in Dhaka, Bangladesh, completed a written questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis was used to derive positive and negative PA attitude measures. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine the associations. The most frequent positive attitudes were PA would 'get or keep me in shape' (81%) and 'be fun' (73%). Common negative attitudes were PA 'would make me hot and sweaty' (51%) and 'is hard work' (42%). Multivariable analysis showed that positive PA attitudes were more likely among adolescents who had physical education classes, adolescents involved in school sports, adolescents who ate fresh fruit and vegetables daily, and adolescents who had breakfast regularly. Negative PA attitudes were more likely among girls, adolescents who slept ≤8 h/night, and adolescents who were overweight or obese and were less common among adolescents who ate fresh fruit and vegetables daily. This study suggests that PA interventions for adolescents should highlight benefits for being in shape and having fun as key components of positive PA attitudes and address negative attitudes of PA being hot and hard work. Specific strategies may be needed to address negative PA attitudes among girls, adolescents who are overweight or obese, and adolescents with insufficient sleep.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2020.102308
Abstract: Studies of parks and physical activity rarely identify the actual spaces participants use. Using data from the HABITAT project, a longitudinal cohort of mid-to older-aged (40-70 years) respondents (n = 11,036) living in Brisbane Australia, this study examined (1) the demographic characteristics of users and non-users of parks (2) the park used and the characteristics and features of the most popular reported spaces and (3) the level of physical activity undertaken in the reported parks and whether users had higher total physical activity levels than non-users. Park use was significantly higher (p < 0.01) among dog walkers, couples (over 40) living with children, and those living in least disadvantaged areas. Regular park use was significantly higher among users of larger-sized neighbourhood and district-catchment parks. Park users were 35% more likely to meet the physical activity guidelines (OR = 1.35, 95%CI 1.21-1.50, p < 0.001) compared with those who indicated they did nto regularly use a park. The size of the park used was positively associated with participation in physical activity. Users of larger-sized parks spent more time doing vigorous activity and engaged in more activity sessions than non-users. Future data obtained from large populations, including spatial examination of the actual parks used and their characteristics, are essential to facilitate planning for park provision, optimising the use of these spaces for recreation and physical activity by mid-to older-aged adults, and creating healthy communities.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-11-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S11136-012-0311-7
Abstract: The aim was to assess the effects of a Tai Chi-based program on health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) in people with elevated blood glucose or diabetes who were not on medication for glucose control. 41 participants were randomly allocated to either a Tai Chi intervention group (N = 20) or a usual medical-care control group (N = 21). The Tai Chi group involved 3 × 1.5 h supervised and group-based training sessions per week for 12 weeks. Indicators of HR-QOL were assessed by self-report survey immediately prior to and after the intervention. There were significant improvements in favor of the Tai Chi group for the SF36 subscales of physical functioning (mean difference = 5.46, 95% CI = 1.35-9.57, P < 0.05), role physical (mean difference = 18.60, 95% CI = 2.16-35.05, P < 0.05), bodily pain (mean difference = 9.88, 95% CI = 2.06-17.69, P < 0.05) and vitality (mean difference = 9.96, 95% CI = 0.77-19.15, P < 0.05). The findings show that this Tai Chi program improved indicators of HR-QOL including physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain and vitality in people with elevated blood glucose or diabetes who were not on diabetes medication.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-03-2021
Abstract: Interventions to promote physical activity participation should reflect social and culturally relevant influences of the target demographic. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of barriers to and enablers of physical activity participation among female Emirati university students. Five semi-structured focus groups were conducted (n = 25). Participants were asked open-ended questions about benefits, barriers and enablers of physical activity, and recommendations to promote participation. Emergent themes were identified using Nvivo software. Commonly identified benefits included improved health, weight management, improved mood, and stress reduction. The main barriers were low family support, competing time demands from domestic and academic activities, lack of convenient access to women-only facilities, and hot weather. The main enablers and recommendations related to social support from family and friends, accessible and low-cost women-only facilities, and structured supervised sessions. Findings suggest that there are specific social-cultural influences of physical activity among female Emirati university students. Approaches to promote participation could include identifying benefits consistent with family and cultural values, using social media for education, support and modelling, on c us supervised physical activity sessions integrated with the academic timetable, low-cost women-only opportunities in the local residential area, and support for home-based activities.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001715
Abstract: Insufficient physical activity (PA) and inadequate sleep quality (SQ) and sleep duration (SD) are highly prevalent behaviors that increase the risk of developing many chronic health conditions. Evidence regarding bidirectional relationships between PA, SQ, and SD is inconsistent. As changes in one of these behaviors may impact on the other, it is important to understand the nature of the bidirectional relationship between PA and sleep. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the relationship between changes in PA, SQ, and SD over a 2-yr period in middle-age adults. Participants were adults age 42 to 72 yr from Brisbane, Australia. Mail surveys were used to assess PA, SQ, SD, sociodemographic and health characteristics in 2011 and 2013 ( n = 3649). Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between patterns of change in PA, SQ, and SD over the 2 yr. Improving or maintaining good SQ was associated with increasing or maintaining PA and maintaining PA was associated with maintaining or increasing SQ ( P 0.05). Changes in PA were not associated with changes in SD. A bidirectional relationship between PA and SQ was identified however, no evidence of a relationship in any direction between PA and SD was found. Multibehavior interventions targeting both PA and SQ are warranted. Middle-age adults with poor SQ may benefit from increasing PA and improving SQ may promote higher levels of activity.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-08-2021
Abstract: This study investigated the associations between two common recreational screen activities and the psychological wellbeing of adolescents, and whether this association was mediated by sleep duration or physical activity frequency. This study used nationally representative cross-sectional survey data from 2946 adolescents (mean age 16.9 [0.38] years 49% female) in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC). Adolescents provided information on daily time spent for each of the following: playing electronic games and watching television, time of sleep onset and wakeup, and number of days/week doing ≥60 min/day of physical activity. Psychological wellbeing was assessed by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Generalized estimating equations were used to examine the associations, and a contemporary multiple mediation analysis was used to examine the mediation effects. One fifth (20%) of adolescents were categorized as having poor wellbeing (SDQ total ≥17) with a significant sex difference (males: 16% females: 24% p 0.001). Playing electronic games was inversely associated with psychological wellbeing for both male and female adolescents (p 0.001). Watching television was inversely associated with psychological wellbeing for female adolescents (p 0.001). Sleep duration and physical activity frequency were found to partially mediate the relationships between playing electronic games and the psychological wellbeing of male and female adolescents. Physical activity frequency partially mediated the association between television watching and wellbeing among female adolescents. Longitudinal studies are required to determine the causal pathway between screen-based activities and the wellbeing of adolescents, and to inform intervention strategies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Date: 11-06-2019
DOI: 10.2174/1573399814666180816165351
Abstract: Exercise is essential for managing type 2 diabetes, however approximately only 40% of people with the condition meet guidelines. The aim of this review is to examine the evidence regarding the use self-report measures of affect to understand and predict exercise adherence. Self-reported affect has been successfully used to regulate exercise intensity, monitor training load, prevent injury, and predict future physical activity participation in otherwise healthy and some clinical populations. Specific recommendations are provided for research to explore the utility of self-report measures of affect to promote exercise adherence in people with type 2 diabetes.
Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Date: 20-03-2020
DOI: 10.2174/1573399815666190531083504
Abstract: People with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are more likely to develop a range of rheumatological and musculoskeletal symptoms (RMS), and experience both chronic and widespread pain, compared with the general population. However, these symptoms are not commonly acknowledged by researchers, which h ers our understanding of the impact on this population. Since exercise is a key lifestyle management strategy for T2D and participation levels are typically low, understanding the potential impact of RMS on exercise participation is critical. The aim of this review is to summarise the literature regarding the prevalence and pathophysiology of RMS in T2D, the evidence for the benefits and risks associated with exercise on RMS, and the currently available tools for the reporting of RMS in both research studies and community settings. A narrative review. There are numerous exercise trials in T2D, but few have sufficiently reported pain-related adverse events and even fewer have investigated the effects of exercise on RMS and chronic pain. Recommendations for future research are provided.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2014
Abstract: An emerging area of interest in workplace health is presenteeism the measurable extent to which physical or psychosocial symptoms, conditions and disease adversely affect the work productivity of those who choose to remain at work. Given established links between presenteeism and health, and health and physical activity, presenteeism could be an important outcome in workplace physical activity research. This study provides a narrative review of questionnaires for use in such research. Eight self-report measures of presenteeism were identified. Information regarding development, constructs measured and psychometric properties was extracted from relevant articles. Questionnaires were largely self-administered, had 4–44 items, and recall periods ranging from 1 week to 1 year. Items were identified as assessing work performance, physical tolerance, psychological well-being and social or role functioning. S les used to test questionnaires were predominantly American male employees, with an age range of 30–59 years. All instruments had undergone psychometric assessment, most commonly discriminant and construct validity. Based on instrument characteristics, the range of conceptual foci covered and acceptable measurement properties, the Health and Work Questionnaire, Work Ability Index, and Work Limitations Questionnaire are suggested as most suitable for further exploring the relationship between physical activity and presenteeism.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2015.07.017
Abstract: To assess physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) in non-institutionalised adults with mental illness, using a combination of self-report and objective measures. Cross-sectional Participants completed PA questionnaires (time spent walking for transport, walking for recreation, gardening, vigorous-, and moderate-intensity activities), and SB questionnaires (time spent sitting for TV, travel, work, computer use, and reclining). Participants also wore an accelerometer for 7 days. Accelerometry estimates of time spent in SB, light activity, and moderate-to-vigorous activity (MVPA), bout durations, and, breaks in sedentary time, were calculated. 142 participants completed the questionnaires. The median time spent in self-reported MVPA and SB was 4.5h/week and 10.7h/day, respectively. Walking for transport, and sitting to watch TV, contributed most to self-report estimates time spent reclining was an important contributor to SB. Ninety-nine participants completed the accelerometry. The median time spent in accelerometer-derived MVPA and SB was 26min/day and 9.2h/day respectively 7% of MVPA time was in bouts of 10min or more, and 34% of SB time was in bouts of over 20min. A high proportion of participants reported activity levels consistent with physical activity guidelines however, a small proportion of activity was accumulated in bouts of 10min or more. Participants also had high levels of SB, about one-third of which was accumulated in bouts over 20min. PA and SB interventions for this group could target increasing recreational walking, and reducing television time.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2013
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.12015
Abstract: To describe physical activity participation in three Queensland regional communities. Cross-sectional mail survey of randomly selected residents, stratified by age and sex. Esk, Mareeba and Mount Isa. 1219 (58% women) adults, with a mean age 46.7 (standard deviation 14.7) years. Proportion of people inactive, meeting Australian activity guidelines (a minimum of 150 min week(-1) and five sessions week(-1) ) and walking a dog daily time spent walking and cycling for transport location and type of recreational physical activities. Overall, 18% of respondents were inactive, with the highest proportions among women (22.3%) and older adults in Mount Isa (24.3%). The proportion meeting activity guidelines was 47%, with the lowest proportion among women in Mount Isa (40.4%). Although 63% reported owning a dog, only 22% reported walking a dog daily. Few people reported walking or cycling for transport. The most common types of activities were walking, home-based exercise, running/jogging and swimming, and the most common location was at or near home. Physical activity levels were lower in these regional communities than the state average. The findings indicate a need for physical activity policy and intervention strategies targeting regional and rural areas. This could focus on women and older adults, dog walking and physical activity opportunities in or near the home.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2013.04.009
Abstract: Associations of sitting-time and physical activity with depression are unclear. To examine concurrent and prospective associations between both sitting-time and physical activity with prevalent depressive symptoms in mid-aged Australian women. Data were from 8950 women, aged 50-55 years in 2001, who completed mail surveys in 2001, 2004, 2007, and 2010. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression questionnaire. Associations between sitting-time (≤ 4 hours/day, >4-7 hours/day, >7 hours/day) and physical activity (none, some, meeting guidelines) with depressive symptoms (symptoms/no symptoms) were examined in 2011 in concurrent and lagged mixed-effect logistic modeling. Both main effects and interaction models were developed. In main effects modeling, women who sat >7 hours/day (OR=1.47, 95% CI=1.29, 1.67) and women who did no physical activity (OR=1.99, 95% CI=1.75, 2.27) were more likely to have depressive symptoms than women who sat ≤ 4 hours/day and who met physical activity guidelines, respectively. In interaction modeling, the likelihood of depressive symptoms in women who sat >7 hours/day and did no physical activity was triple that of women who sat ≤ 4 hours/day and met physical activity guidelines (OR 2.96, 95% CI=2.37, 3.69). In prospective main effects and interaction modeling, sitting-time was not associated with depressive symptoms, but women who did no physical activity were more likely than those who met physical activity guidelines to have future depressive symptoms (OR=1.26, 95% CI=1.08, 1.47). Increasing physical activity to a level commensurate with guidelines can alleviate current depression symptoms and prevent future symptoms in mid-aged women. Reducing sitting-time may ameliorate current symptoms.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.ANNEPIDEM.2009.11.004
Abstract: To examine the association between neighborhood disadvantage and physical activity (PA). We use data from the HABITAT multilevel longitudinal study of PA among middle-aged (40-65 years) men and women (N = 11,037, 68.5% response rate) living in 200 neighborhoods in Brisbane, Australia. PA was measured using three questions from the Active Australia Survey (general walking, moderate, and vigorous activity), one indicator of total activity, and two questions about walking and cycling for transport. The PA measures were operationalized by using multiple categories based on time and estimated energy expenditure that were interpretable with reference to the latest PA recommendations. The association between neighborhood disadvantage and PA was examined with the use of multilevel multinomial logistic regression and Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. The contribution of neighborhood disadvantage to between-neighborhood variation in PA was assessed using the 80% interval odds ratio. After adjustment for sex, age, living arrangement, education, occupation, and household income, reported participation in all measures and levels of PA varied significantly across Brisbane's neighborhoods, and neighborhood disadvantage accounted for some of this variation. Residents of advantaged neighborhoods reported significantly higher levels of total activity, general walking, moderate, and vigorous activity however, they were less likely to walk for transport. There was no statistically significant association between neighborhood disadvantage and cycling for transport. In terms of total PA, residents of advantaged neighborhoods were more likely to exceed PA recommendations. Neighborhoods may exert a contextual effect on the likelihood of residents participating in PA. The greater propensity of residents in advantaged neighborhoods to do high levels of total PA may contribute to lower rates of cardiovascular disease and obesity in these areas.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2012.10.007
Abstract: Physical activity can promote well-being and assist in the prevention and management of psychological symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify what physical activity contexts are preferred by adults with psychosocial difficulties. Cross-sectional population based study. Data were from a mail survey of 7873 adults aged 42-67 years. Psychosocial difficulties were assessed using the Kessler6, and categorized as no distress (0-7) or distress (8-24). Respondents indicated the extent to which they disagreed or agreed with a preference for each of 14 activity contexts, and were categorized as disagree, no preference, or agree. Data were analyzed using (1) descriptive statistics and (2) multi-level multinomial logistic regression with adjustment for sociodemographic and health variables adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are reported. Approximately 12% of respondents were categorized as psychologically distressed. Over 60% of distressed respondents disagreed with a preference for competitive activities and agreed with a preference for activities that can be done close to home, involve little or no cost, can be done alone, are done outdoors, and that are not just about exercise. Distressed respondents had higher odds to prefer supervised activities (1.64 1.32-2.03), activities done with people of the same sex (1.41 1.12-1.78), and activities done at a fixed time with scheduled sessions (1.32 1.08-1.62) than those without distress. Mid-aged adults with psychological distress have specific physical activity context preferences. These preferences could be incorporated into the planning and promotion of physical activity opportunities for people with psychosocial difficulties.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-11-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 07-06-2016
Abstract: the aim of this study was to explore the associations between use of time and momentary hedonic affect ('enjoyment') in adults in the peri-retirement period. a total of 124 adults [61 males, 63 females age 62 (4) years] completed a computerised use-of-time recall on 4 days at each of four time points (3-6 months pre-, 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement), as well as surveys regarding self-reported health, well-being, sleep quality and loneliness. They reported how much they enjoyed each activity on a 0-10 scale. An in idual Enjoyment Index was calculated as the time-weighted average of each participant's enjoyment ratings. Time-weighted enjoyment ratings were also calculated for nine mutually exclusive and exhaustive activity domains (Sleep, Chores, Work, Social, Screen Time, Self-care, Quiet Time, Transport, Physical Activity) and sub-domains. the mean (±SD) Enjoyment Index was 7.43 ± 0.61, and was significantly and positively associated with well-being (P = 0.003 to P < 0.0001) and sleep quality (P = 0.03 to P < 0.0001), and negatively associated with loneliness (P = 0.003 to P < 0.0001). Mean Enjoyment Index values increased significantly (P < 0.0001) from pre-retirement (7.19 ± 0.82) to post-retirement (7.46 ± 0.89, 7.42 ± 0.91 and 7.49 ± 0.89 at 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement). There were significant differences in enjoyment across domains, with Physical Activity (7.86 ± 1.11) and Social (7.66 ± 0.85) being the most enjoyable, and Work (7.10 ± 0.89) and Chores (7.09 ± 0.85) the least enjoyable. enjoyment of everyday activities increased after retirement and remained elevated for at least 12 months. Work appears to constitute a relative hedonic deficit.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 20-01-2012
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2011-090554
Abstract: Strategies to promote physical activity may be more successful if they reflect people's interests. To explore physical activity contexts preferred by three adult groups at risk of inactivity: older adults, those with low income and those with high body mass index (BMI). Cross-sectional data were from a mail survey of 7873 adults aged 42-67 years. Respondents indicated the extent of disagreement or agreement with a preference for each of 14 contexts relating to format (eg, vigorous), location (eg, outdoors) and social setting (eg, done alone). Data were analysed using multilevel multinomial logistic regression. Adjusted OR and 95% CI are reported. Those aged 60-67 (vs 42-49) years had significantly higher odds to prefer activities with people of same age, and significantly lower odds to prefer activities that are at a fixed time with scheduled sessions, competitive, team-based or vigorous. Adults with low (vs high) income had significantly higher odds to prefer activities that are low cost, not just about exercise, team-based, supervised, skill-based or that can be done alone, and significantly lower odds to prefer vigorous or outdoor activities. Adults with BMI 30+ (vs<25) had significantly higher odds to prefer activities that are supervised, with people the same sex, team-based, with people the same age, or at a fixed time with scheduled sessions. These three groups had distinct preferences for how, where and with whom the physical activity is done. This information could be used by those who promote, design, deliver and evaluate physical activity opportunities.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 22-03-2018
Abstract: Although screen time (ST) and insufficient physical activity (PA) are fairly common among adolescents, it is unclear whether these conditions are jointly associated with adolescents' psychosocial difficulties. This study aimed to examine interactive associations of ST and PA with psychosocial difficulties among adolescents in Bangladesh. Data were from 671 students (ages 13-16 y) from eight secondary schools of Dhaka City, Bangladesh. Recreational ST was assessed using the Adolescent Sedentary Activity Questionnaire. The 3-day Physical Activity Recall instrument was used to estimate PA. Psychosocial difficulty was measured using the parent version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Sixteen percent of the adolescents had high SDQ total difficulties scores (≥17) and another 14% had moderate scores (14-16 borderline). Multivariable modelling showed that adolescents with high ST (>2 h/day) and insufficient PA (<60 min/day not meeting the PA recommendation) had more psychosocial difficulties than their counterparts who had low ST and met PA recommendations (p=0.03). The analysis also found marginal evidence (p=0.06) of an association with psychosocial difficulties for adolescents with insufficient PA and low ST. Adolescents in Dhaka City who have high recreational ST and are not meeting PA recommendations are likely to also have psychosocial difficulties. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand the causal relationships between these variables.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 05-2016
Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of using questionnaires and accelerometers to measure physical activity and sedentary behavior among inpatient adults with mental illness. Participants completed a physical activity and sitting time questionnaire and wore an accelerometer for 7 consecutive days. Feasibility was assessed in terms of participant engagement, self-reported ease/difficulty of completing study components, extreme self-report data values and adherence to accelerometer wear time criteria. Ease/difficulty ratings were examined by level of distress. 177 inpatients were invited to the study, 101 completed the questionnaires and 36 provided valid accelerometry data. Participants found it more difficult to complete sitting time and physical activity questionnaires than to wear the accelerometer during waking hours (z = 3.787, P .001 z = 2.824, P = .005 respectively). No significant differences were found in ease/difficulty ratings by level of distress for any of the study components. Extreme values for self-reported sitting time were identified in 27% of participants. Inpatient adults with mental illness can engage with self-report and objective methods of measuring physical activity and sedentary behavior. They were initially less willing to participate in objective measurement, which may however be more feasible than self-report measures.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2016.05.009
Abstract: How people use their time has health implications, but use of time may be influenced by factors such as age, sex, education and health. This study aimed to provide detailed information on the daily activity patterns of older working people. 139 older Australian adults (aged 50-79 years) undertook comprehensive interviews on their use of time. This paper presents a cross-sectional analysis of the baseline findings from a longitudinal study. Use of time was measured using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA), administered via computer-assisted phone interview. Activity patterns were described, and compared on the basis of sex, education and health status. The main activities undertaken were sleep (mean 466min/day), work (mean 233min/day) and chores (mean 160min/day), with little time spent on physical activity (mean 13min/day). Women spent more time doing chores (p<0.001) while men spent more time on vigorous activities (p<0.001). Participants with "fair" health spent less time on inside chores (p=0.05) and grooming (p=0.02) than healthier participants. Healthy lifestyle interventions for older workers should aim to increase physical activity levels by targeting specific activities, depending on sex and health status.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2012.12.008
Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore longitudinal associations between sitting and physical and psychological symptoms in mid-age women. Mid-age (53-58 years) participants in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health completed mail surveys in 2004 (n=10,286), 2007 (n=10,128) and 2010 (n=9452) with questions about sitting time (<6, 6-9, and ≥ 9 h/day) and frequency of 19 symptoms in the preceding 12 months (often vs. never/rarely/sometimes). Associations between sitting and symptoms were examined using two logistic generalized estimating equations models: (a) sequential cross-sectional data from 3 surveys, and (b) prospective model with a 3-year time lag (significance level=0.01). Approximately 53%, 30% and 17% of the women were classified as sitting <6, 6-9 and ≥ 9 h/day in 2004. In adjusted cross-sectional models, women sitting ≥ 9 h/day had significantly higher odds of breathing difficulties (OR=1.52, 99% CI=1.17-2.00), tiredness (OR=1.21, CI=1.05-1.40), bowel problems (OR=1.26, CI=1.02-1.56), eyesight problems (OR=1.16, CI=1.01-1.34), and depression (OR=1.39, CI=1.15-1.68) than women sitting <6h/day. Adjusted prospective models showed higher odds of breathing difficulties (OR=1.94, CI=1.40-2.69), chest pain (OR=2.04, CI=1.14-3.70), and tiredness (OR=1.24, CI=1.04-1.48). Associations with breathing difficulties and chest pain remained significant after excluding participants with chronic conditions in 2004. Prolonged sitting may a determinant of breathing difficulties and chest pain three years later in mid-age women.
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Date: 20-12-2018
DOI: 10.1093/ACREFORE/9780190236557.013.609
Abstract: Research on healthy aging has begun to address mental health issues in later life. Despite the debates about exactly what constitutes healthy aging and which are the most useful or valid determinants of this construct to study, there is substantial evidence for several determinants of successful aging, including physical activity, cognitive stimulation, and social networks. All three of these determinants support mental health, including cognition, in later life. Resilience is another construct that plays an important role in healthy aging, but it has not received as much research attention at the end of life as in earlier periods. Factors that reduce the risk of mental distress or promote resilience with respect to mental health in the face of challenges in later life remain fruitful areas for further investigations.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-08-2021
Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and trajectories of chronic diseases and risk behaviors in immigrants from high-income countries (HIC), low–middle-income countries (LMIC), to Australian-born people. Data were used from five waves of the HABITAT (2007–2016) study—11,035 adults living in Brisbane, Australia. Chronic diseases included cancer, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Risk factors assessed were body mass index (BMI), insufficient physical activity, and cigarette smoking. Diabetes mellitus increased in all groups, with the highest increase of 33% in LMIC immigrants. The prevalence of cancers increased 19.6% in the Australian-born, 16.6% in HIC immigrants, and 5.1% in LMIC immigrants. The prevalence of asthma increased in HIC immigrants while decreased in the other two groups. Poisson regression showed that LMIC immigrants had 1.12 times higher rates of insufficient physical activity, 0.75 times lower rates of smoking, and 0.77 times lower rates of being overweight than the Australian-born population. HIC immigrants had 0.96 times lower rates of insufficient physical activity and 0.93 times lower rates of overweight than Australian-born. The findings of this study can inform better strategies to reduce health disparities by targeting high-risk cohorts.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1071/HE08052
Abstract: The evaluation of an earlier 10,000 Steps community-based intervention program indicated that men were less likely than women to have used a pedometer or increased their physical activity (PA). This study aimed to explore men's reactions to the 10,000 Steps a Day message, the use of pedometers, and other strategies for increasing PA. Five focus groups were conducted with 39 men aged 45-65 years. Although many were familiar with the 10,000 Steps message, the majority of men did not like it. Pedometers were seen as useful for assessing PA in the short term, but not for ongoing use. Participants were generally aware of PA recommendations. Walking was considered a good option for this age group, but there was varying interest in this type of activity. Weight and stress management were commonly identified benefits of PA. Common barriers to PA were lack of time and motivation, health and weight restrictions, cost, and disinterest. Suggestions of how to promote PA to mid-aged men included workplace initiatives, making PA "fun", and creating opportunities for men to do PA with their family or same-aged peers. PA promotion using the 10,000 Steps message, walking, and pedometers may not appeal to mid-aged men.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2014.09.030
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) has a positive association with health-related quality of life (HRQL) in the general population. The association between PA and HRQL in those with poor mental health is less clear. To examine the concurrent and prospective dose-response relationships between total PA (TPA) and walking only with HRQL in women aged 50-55 years with depressive symptoms in 2001. Participants were 1,904 women born in 1946-1951 who completed mailed surveys for the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health in 2001, 2004, 2007, and 2010, and reported depressive symptoms in 2001. At each time point, they reported their weekly minutes of walking, moderate PA, and vigorous PA. A summary TPA score was created that accounted for differences in energy expenditure among the three PA types. Mixed models were used to examine associations between TPA and HRQL (short form-36 [SF-36] component and subscale scores) and between walking and HRQL, for women who reported walking as their only PA. Analyses were conducted in 2013-2014. Concurrently, higher levels of TPA and walking were associated with better HRQL (p<0.05). The strongest associations were found for physical functioning, vitality, and social functioning subscales. In prospective models, associations were attenuated, yet compared with women doing no TPA or walking, women doing "sufficient" TPA or walking had significantly better HRQL over time for most SF-36 scales. This study extends previous work by demonstrating trends between both TPA and walking and HRQL in women reporting depressive symptoms.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 10-2023
Abstract: Physical activity is a leading determinant of health and well-being in older adults however, participation is low. Social support can significantly influence physical activity uptake and maintenance however, most research is cross-sectional and does not differentiate among types of support. The current study assessed four types of social support for physical activity reported over 9 years by adults aged 60–65 at baseline ( n = 1,984). Data were collected using a mail survey at four time points. Data were analyzed using linear mixed models. The most common type of support was emotional, with 25% of participants reporting this often/very often. Total support for activity declined by 16% across the 9 years ( p .001). Companionship had the greatest decline among types (17%–18%, p .001). More work is needed to understand the factors contributing to the decline in support and how to enable access to support for physical activity in older adults.
Start Date: 2011
End Date: 12-2014
Amount: $295,540.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
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