The Influence of Socio-demographic Factors on Physical Activity Level of Health Service Providers in Jos University Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Physical activity and exercise are essential for enhancing the health of healthcare providers and improving their quality of life. Several factors, including socio-demographic characteristics, can influence the physical activity levels of healthcare providers. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of socio-demographic factors on the physical activity levels of healthcare providers at Jos University Teaching Hospital.

Methods: A stratified sampling method was used to select 285 consenting health service providers. Socio-demographic characteristic of participants was documented while physical activity level was assessed with the GPAQ. Data collected was analysed using SPSS version 25. Chi-square statistics was used to explore relationship between socio-demographic factors and physical activity level. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Logistic regression was applied for significant variables from chi-square.

Results: Gender (p value of 0.007) and marital status (p value of 0.004) were statistically significantly associated with the physical activity level of health service providers. Male participants predominantly (41%) had high physical activity levels compared to their female counterparts, who mostly had low physical activity levels (36%). Logistic regression showed that females had about 2 times the odds of being physically inactive compared to their male counterparts (odd ratio of 2.23 at 95% confidence interval). Single participants (50%) had higher physical activity levels compared to married individuals. Age, average monthly salary, and years of practice were not statistically related to physical activity levels.

Conclusion: Marital status and gender was significantly related to physical activity level. Advocacy should be aimed at female and married health service providers who are less likely to be physically active.