A Cross-sectional Study of the Status of Physical Inactivity Pre-COVID-19 Pandemic Among Adult Men in Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background: Physical inactivity is a leading cause of death, disability, and premature mortality worldwide. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, insufficient physical activity had emerged as a growing global public health concern. Understanding pre-pandemic patterns of physical inactivity is essential to distinguish baseline trends from behavioral changes observed during and after the pandemic. Objectives: This study aimed to assess physical activity levels and estimate the prevalence of physical inactivity among adult men in Tehran before the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2018 to 2019 among 860 adult men selected through a multistage, citywide sampling strategy across various regions of Tehran. Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and chi-square tests using SPSS version 27. Results: The overall prevalence of physical inactivity among adult men in Tehran was 35.7%. Physical inactivity was more common among married men (40.8%) than single men (29.2%). Sedentary behavior increased with age, particularly up to 50 years. A positive association was observed between higher educational attainment and sedentary lifestyle: 26.2% among individuals with less than a diploma, 22.6% for diploma holders, 27.1% for associate degree holders, 29.2% for bachelor’s degree holders, 40.2% for those with a master’s degree, and 47.9% for doctoral degree holders. Conclusions: The substantial prevalence of physical inactivity among adult men in Tehran highlights an urgent need for targeted prevention strategies, early identification, and timely interventions. Considering the strong link between inactivity and chronic diseases, revising and reinforcing public health programs and policies to promote active lifestyles is imperative.