Physical Activity and Eating Habits Are Related to Chronic Disease in the Basic Livelihood Security Program

Chronic diseases are a significant public health issue, especially for socioeconomically vulnerable population groups. The purpose of this study is to compare the prevalence of chronic diseases in people receiving and not receiving BLS and to determine the prevalence of chronic diseases according to the physical activity and dietary habits of people receiving BLS.

Data were derived from the sixth to ninth waves (2014-2022) of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), focusing on 15,041 participants aged 65 and older. Demographic characteristics, dietary intake, physical activity, and chronic disease status were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to calculate odds ratios for chronic diseases according to physical activity and dietary habits.

The BLS group exhibited higher prevalence rates of hypertension and diabetes, along with lower dietary intake of energy, protein, fat, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and vitamin C, compared to the non-BLS group. A below-average intake of energy and carbohydrates was associated with increased odds of hypertension and diabetes, particularly in the BLS group. For dietary fiber, a significant association with diabetes was found only in the BLS group. Sedentary behavior exceeding 9 h per day was linked to higher odds of chronic diseases in both groups, with stronger associations in the BLS group. Limited walking frequency (less than 1 day per week) further exacerbated risks.

BLS recipients demonstrated higher chronic disease prevalence, poorer dietary habits, and more sedentary behavior compared to non-recipients. The associations between lifestyle factors and chronic diseases were generally more substantial in the BLS group, suggesting the need for targeted interventions to improve dietary quality and physical activity patterns in this vulnerable population.