Physical Activity and Its Related Factors in Southeast Iran

Background: Increasing the level of physical activity (PA) is an important strategy for reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases. Objectives: This study aimed at addressing the level and related factors of PA among adults in Kerman. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed among 1000 adults, using a multistage sampling method. The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used. Chi-square, one-way ANOVA, and ordinal regression tests were used to assess the correlation between independent variables (age, gender, level of education, income, employment, marital status, and living in deprived areas) and level of PA. Results: The median of PA was 1584 MET-minutes/week. The level of PA was low in 25.6%, moderate in 44.4%, and vigorous in 30%of participants. Participants with higher ages (OR = 0.98; P = 0.008), those with pre-college education (OR = 0.63; P = 0.027), and students (OR = 0.50; P = 0.019) had a lower probability to be in a high level of PA. Men (OR = 2.17; P < 0.001) and those with an average income (OR = 1.53; P = 0.027) had a higher probability to be in a high level of PA. Conclusions: The level of PA is relatively low in Kerman. It seems that increasing awareness of the benefits of PA, creating a positive attitude towards PA, providing healthy transportation options, increasing PA facilities including sports spaces and enhancing social support are the most important strategies for increasing the level of PA in the Iranian society.