Trends in physical activity and sedentary time among U.S. adults with asthma: 2007-2020

Physical activity plays a crucial role in asthma management, yet comprehensive analyses of temporal trends in physical activity patterns among asthma patients are lacking. This study aimed to examine trends in physical activity levels and sedentary behavior across multiple domains among U.S. adults with asthma from 2007 to 2020.

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we analyzed adults aged ≥18 years with diagnosed asthma. Physical activity was assessed across work-related, leisure-time, and transportation domains. Age- and gender-adjusted proportions of physical activity levels and mean daily sitting time were estimated using multiple logistic and linear regression models.

From 2007-2008 to 2017-2020, the proportion of sufficiently active individuals increased from 49.3% to 61.2% (p-trend < 0.001), while inactive individuals decreased from 42.2% to 31.8% (p-trend < 0.001). Work-related (39.8% to 51.4%, p-trend < 0.001) and leisure-time activity participation (39.7% to 47.4%, p-trend = 0.004) showed upward trends, while transportation-related activity demonstrated no significant change (p-trend = 0.189). Mean daily sitting time increased from 5.8 to 7.3 h (p-trend = 0.046). Being female, having a higher socioeconomic status, or being Mexican American were positively associated with sufficient activity, while being aged ≥45 years, obesity, smoking history, and chronic conditions were negatively associated.

Despite overall improvements in physical activity levels among U.S. adults with asthma, approximately one-third maintain insufficient activity levels. The increasing trend in sedentary time and declining transportation activity highlight areas requiring targeted interventions, particularly among older adults or those with chronic conditions.