Is urbanization associated with physical activity?

Introduction
Reduced Physical Activity (PA) is one of the modifiable risk factors of non communicable diseases. In Sri Lanka, NCDs are expected to increase due to the rapid urbanization and unhealthy lifestyles.
Objectives
To assess the level of PA and associated factors of adults aged 18-44 years living in an area undergoing rapid urbanization
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 340 adults in the DS division of Gampaha. PA was assessed using the long International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) validated for adult Sri Lankans. Diet was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Associations of ‘low’ PA were assessed using chi-square test and logistic regression model.
Results
PA was ‘low’ in 25.9%; ‘moderate’ in 40.6%; and ‘high’ in 33.5%. Female gender, urban residence, income over Rs. 40,000, unemployment, upper and middle level skilled occupations and suboptimal consumption of commercially baked food were significantly associated with ‘insufficient’ level of PA. In the logistic regression model, being a female and being unemployed were independently associated with ‘insufficient level’ of PA.
Conclusions and Recommendations
26% of the adults had reduced PA. Interventions at community level targeting the vulnerable groups are recommended.