Recommendation and physical activity practice in Brazilians with chronic diseases

To analyze the prevalence and factors associated with professional recommendation and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) in Brazilian individuals diagnosed with hypertension (HBP), diabetes, and/or hypercholesterolemia.

This is a cross-sectional population-based study with a representative sample of the Brazilian population (aged ≥20 years) in 2013, with self-reported HBP (n=11.098), diabetes (n=3.176), and/or hypercholesterolemia (n=7.252). Prevalence and gross odds ratios were estimated and adjusted for both outcomes.

Professional recommendation and LTPA were more prevalent in individuals who received recommendation and presented with hypercholesterolemia (85.9 and 23.4%, respectively). Adjusted analysis showed an association in people 40 to 59 years of age and public programs in most diseases. Higher educational level was associated with receiving recommendations in all non-communicable diseases (NCDs). LTPA was associated in people 40 to 59 years of age for HBP and diabetes and in all investigated NCDs, higher educational level, positive perception of health, and a favorable environment in those who received recommendation.

Education presented the greatest magnitude in the associations, clearly showing the need for equitable methods to increase recommendation and LTPA levels for the most vulnerable population. Further studies analyzing other variables and NCD are needed, corroborating the Ministry of Health.