Physical Inactivity Prevalence in the Islamic World: An Updated Analysis of 47 Countries.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Global Health

Background:

• Physical inactivity estimates for adults in Muslim countries are outdated, with limited data for youth.
• Previous studies focused on adults, necessitating an updated analysis incorporating recent data and youth populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide updated estimates of physical inactivity prevalence for youth and adults in Muslim countries.
• To analyze trends and disparities in physical inactivity based on sex, ethnicity, and country income level.

Main Methods:

• Data from 47 Muslim countries were analyzed, utilizing global estimates and World Health Organization surveillance data.
• Weighted prevalence calculations considered population, sample size, and Muslim proportion. Statistical tests (Z, chi-square) and odds ratios were used to identify differences.

Main Results:

• Overall physical inactivity prevalence was 84.2% for youth and 29.6% for adults.
• Prevalence was lower in males than females and in non-Arabs compared to Arabs for both age groups.
• Adult physical inactivity prevalence increased with country income level, from 22.7% in low-income to 62.0% in high-income countries.

Conclusions:

• Physical inactivity levels are higher than current global estimates in Muslim countries.
• Sex and ethnic disparities in physical inactivity have decreased but remain present.
• Adult inactivity shows a positive correlation with national income, highlighting socioeconomic influences.