Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of all domains of physical activity in Brazilian adults

ObjectiveTo estimate the prevalence and sociodemographic indicators associated with physical inactivity in leisure, commuting, work, and household in adults in Florianopolis, Brazil.MethodsPopulation-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2009 to January 2010, with adults between 20 to 59 years of age (n = 1720). Sociodemographic indicators and physical inactivity in each domain were assessed by a validated questionnaire, applied through face-to-face interviews.ResultsThe prevalence of physical inactivity in each domain was: leisure (52.5%); commuting (50.4%); work (80.9%); and household (57.6%). Women were 27% more inactive in leisure, while men were significantly more inactive at commuting and household (p < 0.001). Older adults were more inactive in leisure (p = 0.04) and commuting (p = 0.05). Physical inactivity in leisure was higher in black adults and those who living with a partner and with lower educational level and lower income. In commuting, those living with a partner and who had higher income were more inactive. Physical inactivity at work was higher in white or brown adults, who had higher educational level and higher income. Physical inactivity in household was found to be higher in adults with higher educational level and higher income.ConclusionsSociodemographic indicators presented different associations with physical inactivity in each domain.

► Physical inactivity is high ( > 50.0%) in all domains.
► Physical inactivity was more prevalent at work (80.9%).
► Women were more inactive in leisure; men were more inactive in commuting and work.
► Per capita family income was consistently associated with inactivity in all domains.
► Sociodemographic factors are differently associated with inactivity in each domain.