The Association Between Physical Activity And Arthritis In The 65 + Population In The Commonwealth Of Virginia
AMIRAH ELLIS
Advisor: R. Leonard Vance, Ph.D., J.D., P.E.,
C.I.H., C.S.P., C.H.M.M.
Preceptor: J. James Cotter, Ph.D.
Objectives: This study examined if there is an association between physical activity and arthritis for older persons in Virginia
Methods: Using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, prevalence of arthritis for those persons engaging in physical activity was determined and logistic regression models of physical activity were estimated for persons who were aware of their arthritis status. Individuals who were limited by their joint symptoms were not included in the analysis.
Results: Overall, findings suggest that the prevalence of arthritis in the older population in Virginia (84.4%) is higher than in the US (58.8%). Findings do not indicate an association between arthritis and physical activity in the 65 and older population in Virginia. However demographic determinants such as education, marital status, and weight do reflect an association.
Conclusions: While there is not evidence that physical activity is associated with arthritis in the population of interest, there are a number of determinants affecting the physical activity participation in the study group. These determinants should be considered when designing interventions for the growing aging population.
