Physical Inactivity and Its Associated Factors among Adults in Malaysia: Findings from National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019

Abstract

Introduction: Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for worldwide mortality with major implications towards general health. Monitoring the level of physical inactivity may reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors. This study aims to determine the prevalence of physical inactivity and its associated factors among adults aged 18 years and above in Malaysia. Methodology: Data was obtained from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019. It was a cross-sectional, population-based survey which employed two- stage stratified random sampling design. A total of 10,356 out of 10,472 respondents were interviewed using a short version of International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results: Overall, the prevalence of physical inactivity among adults aged 18 years and above in Malaysia was 24.6% (95% CI: 23.2, 26.1). Results from multivariable logistic model showed that Chinese ethnicity (aOR 1.32; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.67), urban dwellers (aOR 1.30; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.57), those who were single (including widow, widower and divorcee) (aOR 1.36; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.61), students (aOR 2.10; 95% CI: 1.30, 3.40), higher household income earners (aOR 1.34; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.68) and those with hypercholesterolaemia (aOR 1.25; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.51) were significantly more likely to be physically inactive. Conclusion: Specific and appropriate intervention towards targeted group is in crucial need to increase the level of physical activity and to promote an active living towards an active and healthy Malaysia.

Physical Activity in Malaysia: Are We Doing Enough? Findings from the REDISCOVER Study

“…Our findings also noted that men are less likely to participate in sufficiently active and very active PA compared to women. This is in contrast with previous studies, which showed females were less active compared to males [ 18 , 22 , 58 , 73 ]. The reason for this could be because more women compared to men were involved in domestic-related PA, which accounts for the biggest PA domain in this population.…”

“…Previous literature has reported the physical activity patterns and factors associated with physical activity [ 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 ]. Evidence from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019 showed that the prevalence of physical inactivity among adults in Malaysia was 24.6%; which is higher in comparison to other Asian countries such as China, India and Hong Kong [ 22 ]. This brings us to the subject of interest, which is to explore the patterns of physical activity among the Malaysian population based on the four IPAQ domains, which are work, active transportation, domestic and yard work, and leisure time and factors associated with physical activity levels.…”

Differences and Associations of Physical Activeness, Quality of Life, Motivational Factors, and Stages of Change Between Young and Mid Adults

“…Physical activity (PA) is a powerful and inexpensive tool to prevent any kinds of disease, promote social interactions, and increase an individuals’ health and well-being (World Health Organization & Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, 2003). Despite the benefits and positive outcome on one’s health through PA, sedentary behavior is still commonly seen around the world (Chan et al, 2017; Hallal et al, 2012), especially in the urban area (Alias et al, 2022; Wattelez et al, 2021). Physical inactiveness or sedentary lifestyle has shown to be an utmost risk factor for mobility and is linked to certain health risk such as developing cardiovascular disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, feelings of anxiety, and depression (Croezen et al, 2009; Rosqvist et al, 2009; Win et al, 2011).…”