Physical inactivity and associated factors in chronic disease patients in Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of physical activity in a sample of chronic disease patients in three Southeast Asian countries (Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam). A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2014 among 4803 adult chronic disease patients (69.6% were female and 30.4% male) recruited cross-sectionally from health facilities. Physical activity was measured using the validated Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). Results indicate that 30.9% engaged in low physical activity, 24.6% in moderate and 44.5% in high physical activity. The main contributors to total physical activity were from working and active commuting. The results of multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the prevalence of low physical activity was associated with being male, older age, higher educational level, being single, divorced or widowed, residing in a rural area, not formally employed, low quality of life, problem drinking, tobacco use and depressive symptoms. A significant proportion of chronic disease patients engaged in low physical activity. Several factors were identified which may assist in programmes to promote physical activity in this population.

Keywords: Physical inactivity, risk factors, chronic disease patients, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam