Background: Physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to assess physical activity levels and associated factors among adults in Sistan and Baluchestan province, comparing men and women.
Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted among 520 individuals aged 18 to 60 residing in Sistan and Baluchestan province during 2023–2024. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), with physical activity classified into low, moderate, and high levels. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare men and women, Spearman’s correlation to examine relationships between variables, and ordinal logistic regression to identify associated factors.
Findings: Of the participants, 248 (47.7%) were women and 272 (52.3%) were men. There was a significant difference in physical activity levels between men and women (p=0.001). Additionally, physical activity showed a significant inverse relationship with BMI in both men (Rs=-0.372) and women (Rs=-0.216) (p=0.001). Ordinal logistic regression analysis revealed that higher BMI and marital status (being married) were associated with lower physical activity, whereas male gender, higher education levels, and greater social support were associated with higher levels of physical activity (p<0.05). Conversely, the number of children and age did not show a significant independent association with physical activity (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Physical activity levels are influenced by individual, social, and health-related factors. Gender differences and associations with BMI, marital status, education, and social support emphasize the need for interventions tailored to population characteristics.