Older age, female sex, urban residence, functional disability, stroke, and no tobacco or problem drinking were associated with low physical activity (42.2% prevalence) in adults with anxiety.
Cross-Sectional (n=1,811)
In South African adults with anxiety, low physical activity is prevalent and associated with specific socio-demographic and health factors, highlighting target groups for interventions.
The present study aimed to assess the correlates of low physical activity in adults with anxiety in South Africa Data from the South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (a cross-sectional survey in 2012) were utilised The sample included 1 811 persons 15 years and older (median age 40 years, interquartile range = 28) with anxiety Overall, 42 2% of the sample engaged in low physical activity In the final logistic regression model, socio-demographic factors (older age, being female, and urban residence), health status factors (functional disability and stroke), and health risk behaviours (no current tobacco use and no problem drinking) were associated with low physical activity Findings suggest that physical activity behaviour interventions in South African adults with anxiety could target at risk groups identified in this study.
Human Sciences Research Council (2026) conducted a cross-sectional in Anxiety (n=1,811). Older age, female sex, urban residence, functional disability, stroke, and no tobacco or problem drinking were associated with low physical activity (42.2% prevalence) in adults with anxiety.