Knowledge on physical activity and nutrition behaviours in patients with increased body weight and cardiovascular diseases

Background
Low physical activity and the increasing number of overweight and obese people contribute to the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in society. Classic risk factors and improper lifestyle increase the risk of their occurrence, progression and mortality in patients. The aim of the study was assessment of physical activity and nutrition behaviours in people with abnormal body weight and cardiovascular diseases.

Material and methods
The study involved 152 patients including 70 men and 82 women aged 23-95 years (mean 55.4 ± 14.04 years). The study used the International Physical Activity Questionnaire IPAQ in its seven-day version and an original questionnaire. The data were collected in a database and Statistica v.10 was used for a statistical analysis.

Results
The average energy expenditure amounted to 1.422 MET. 50% of the participant demonstrated sufficient physical activity, 36% low, and only 14% high. Only 15% of the respondents did exercises. Despite being overweight and obese, 66% of the respondents did not follow a diet and only 17% of them consumed 5 meals a day.

Conclusions
Despite the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases and abnormal body weight, physical activity was low in the study group, and the knowledge in this regard was limited. In addition a significant number of respondents did not exhibit healthy behaviours.