Correlates of physical activity counseling provided by physicians: A cross-sectional study in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Physical inactivity is a major health issue in Saudi Arabia (SA). Being physically active can improve overall health and prevent the risk of noncommunicable diseases and their consequences. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary health care physicians in SA toward physical activity (PA) and identify the correlates of PA counseling provided by physicians.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in four main cities of Eastern Province, SA (Al-Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, and Safwa). A total of 147 physicians (44%) filled out self-reported surveys that were used in the assessment of the aims.

Results

Overall, 59.9% of the physicians believed that PA promotion to patients was their responsibility, and 53.7%

SUBMITTER: Alahmed Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6657910 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature