ObjectiveInvestigations on physical inactivity are common around the world; however, little is known about the status of physical inactivity in mainland China. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and risk factors associated with physical inactivity in Shenzhen in Southern China.DesignA community-based, cross-sectional study.SettingA multistage-stratified, random cluster survey was conducted in Xixiang Street, Bao’an District of Shenzhen in Southeast China.Participants3920 adults aged 40 years or more were recruited to the study and completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form between 1 March 2015 and 30 July 2016.Main outcome measuresPhysical inactivity was defined as engaging in physical activity levels insufficient to reach the current guidelines. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were undertaken to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with physical inactivity.ResultsThe prevalence of physical inactivity was 63.1% for all participants, 63.9% for women and 61.9% for men, respectively. Participants who were older (OR=1.31, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.54), who were female (OR=1.22, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.43), who had higher education experience (OR=1.38, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.61), who are under economic pressure (OR=2.17, 95% CI 1.48 to 3.17), who ever smoked a cigarette (OR=1.44, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.82) and drank alcohol (OR=1.42, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.77), and participants in the lowest body mass index category (OR=1.40, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.89), were more likely to report physical inactivity.ConclusionsThese findings indicate that physical inactivity is prevalent in Southern China. Interventions and programmes aimed at increasing physical activity among middle-aged and older Chinese adults may also be tailored to participants under economic pressure and those with unhealthy behaviours such as smoking and drinking.
Sarcopenia-related features and factors associated with lower muscle strength and physical performance in older Chinese: a cross sectional study
