Tracking of physical activity from adolescence to adulthood: a population-based study.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the association between regular physical activity in adolescence and leisure-time physical activity in adulthood, with emphasis on gender differences.


METHODS
A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Pelotas, Southern Brazil, in 2003. A representative sample of households was selected in multiple stages and subjects aged 20-59 years were interviewed. Leisure-time physical activity was evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Data on adolescent physical activity were based on subjects' recall.


RESULTS
Of 2,577 subjects interviewed, 27.5% were classified as adequately active, and 54.9% reported regular physical activity in adolescence. Subjects who engaged in regular physical activity during adolescence were more likely to be adequately active in adulthood (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.42; 95% CI: 1.23; 1.65). This effect was stronger in women (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.22; 1.86) than men (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.10; 1.67).


CONCLUSIONS
Promoting physical activity in school age may be a successful intervention against the epidemic of adult inactivity. Although women were less likely to report regular physical activity in adolescence, the effect of this experience on adult behavior was stronger than in men.
Azevedo
Mario Renato
MR
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Epidemiologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brasil. marioazevedojr@terra.com.br
Araújo
Cora Luiza
CL
Cozzensa da Silva
Marcelo
M
Hallal
Pedro Curi
PC
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001938:Brazil; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013177:Sports / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*