Key result
Exercise is linked to ~52% lower CVD prevalence versus no exercise in older adults.
Why the study?
The relationship between physical activity levels, duration, and intensity with cardiovascular health among Saudi elderly was not well characterized.
Does physical activity reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in Saudi adults aged ≥65 years?
Cross-Sectional (n=1,225)
Does physical activity reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in Saudi adults aged ≥65 years?
Effect estimate: 41%-46% lower odds
Absolute Event Rate: 26.1% vs 54.3%
p-value: p=<0.001
Regular, high-intensity physical activity is associated with a significantly lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease among Saudi adults aged 65 and older.
Supports exercise-CVD association in older Saudi adults; leaves open causality and should not change practice without prospective data.
Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Engaging in regular exercise is integral to maintaining cardiovascular health amongst older adults. This study aims to investigate the relationship between physical activity levels, duration and intensity with cardiovascular health amongst Saudi elderly. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 1225 Saudi adults aged ≥65 years was conducted. Data on demographics, physical activity habits, cardiovascular health parameters and medication use were collected through questionnaires. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests and logistic regression to determine associations using SPSS version 27. Results: The sample included diverse representation across age, gender, education levels and locations. Most self-reported low physical activity (49.1%) and good cardiovascular health (37.7%). A significant proportion (11.4%) had been diagnosed with cardiovascular complications. High-intensity exercise demonstrated the lowest CVD prevalence (25.3%). Participants who exercised showed significantly lower CVD prevalence than non-exercisers (26.1% vs. 54.3%, P < 0.001). Similarly, individuals exercising ≥5 days/week had the lowest prevalence (35.4%) compared to those exercising less frequently. Through logistic regression, high-intensity exercise, exercising ≥5 days/week and engaging in regular strength training were independently associated with 41%–46% lower odds of CVDs. Self-reported barriers included lack of motivation (17.1%) and perceiving activities as non-challenging (50.9%). Conclusion: The study highlights a link between exercise habits and reduced CVD risk amongst Saudi elderly. Promoting high-intensity physical activities conducted regularly could help lower the disease burden. Addressing motivational barriers through educational interventions may encourage exercise adoption to enhance cardiovascular health outcomes in this population.
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Alazmi et al. (2024) conducted a cross-sectional in Cardiovascular disease (n=1,225). Exercise vs. Non-exercisers was evaluated on CVD prevalence (41%-46% lower odds, p=<0.001). Exercise was associated with a significantly lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease compared to no exercise among Saudi adults aged ≥65 years (26.1% vs. 54.3%, P < 0.001).
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