رابطه فعاليت هاي بدني بزرگسالان در اوقات فراغت با بهره گيري از خدمات بهداشتي درماني در اهواز

Leisure Time Physical Activity among Adults and Its Association with Medical Services Use in Ahwaz

Physical activity is one of the major factors in preventing of many diseases. Determination of its pattern among population groups and its role in reducing the number of diseases and use of medical services is important. The aim of this study was to explain the pattern of leisure time physical activity among adults Iiving in Ahwaz and to recognize its association with use of medical services. This study was under taken on 1600 habitants aged 18-84 years. Data was collected using a questionnaire completed by interviewers. Less than half of the subjects reported at least 20 minutes physical activity in a week. This figure was statistically significant by increasing of age (P=0.002), and decreasing of educational level (P<0.001). However, there was no significant difference by economical status. The pattern of physical activity was also vary among different groups. There was a significant association between physical activity and use of medical services, hospital admission, and high blood pressure (P<0.05). Public education and persuading people for physical activity at leisure particularly for women, older generations, and low educated groups is recommended. Providing available sport facilities may help to increase the rate of physical activities among such societies.