Physical Activity and Heart Diseases in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction:

Engaging in regular physical activity stands as a crucial strategy for managing and mitigating the adverse effects associated with hypertension. The objective of this investigation was to analyze the physical activity trends among individuals diagnosed with hypertension in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional analysis encompassed hypertensive individuals attending outpatient clinics. Utilizing an online sample size determination tool, it was established that a minimum of 210 participants would be necessary to accurately assess the prevalence of physical activity among this group. Data collection was facilitated through a self-administered survey that delved into the respondents' sociodemographic details and their physical activity patterns, employing the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) as the assessment tool.

Results:

The study successfully enrolled 210 hypertensive patients from a clinic specializing in chronic conditions. The demographic breakdown revealed a nearly equal distribution between genders, with the majority of participants being under 50 years of age. A significant portion of the cohort (94%) engaged primarily in low-intensity activities, such as walking or cycling for a minimum of ten continuous minutes for transportation purposes. Activities of moderate intensity at the workplace were markedly higher among males and individuals younger than 40 years compared to their female and older counterparts (p=0.038 and p<0.001, respectively).

Conclusions: The overall engagement in physical activity within the hypertensive population in Saudi Arabia was found to be suboptimal. Notably, physical activity practices were predominantly observed among younger and male patients, suggesting demographic disparities in health behavior.