Physical Activity, Cardiometabolic Disorders, and Guideline Adherence Among Post-Menopausal Versus Peri-Menopausal Women: Insights from the NHANES

Background

Physical activity (PA) is an effective treatment and prevention approach for various health disorders. Using a nationally representative sample from the United States, this study assessed the prevalence of PA and sedentary behavior among post-menopausal and peri-menopausal women. The study also evaluated several factors associated with adherence to the physical activity guidelines (PAG).

Methods

We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2006. Women aged >= 35 years with complete data on PA and cardiometabolic disorders (i.e., hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and obesity) were included. A t-test was used to compare the two groups of women. A multivariable logistic regression model assessed the factors associated with meeting the PAG.

Results

Among 3,619 (weighted n=156 million) women who met the inclusion criteria, 42% of post-menopausal women met the PAG compared with 46% of peri-menopausal women (P<.0001). Post-menopausal women spent more sitting time per day (5.9 hours vs 4.8 hours). Aging, low education, and cardiometabolic disorders were associated with lower rates of meeting the PAG. Post-menopausal women had a higher prevalence of all cardiometabolic disorders, even after meeting the PAG (P<.0001). Also, each 30-minute increase in MVPA per week was associated with a 2% and 16% reduction in the odds of diabetes and obesity among post-menopausal women. No significant association was observed with hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

Conclusion

PA level was generally lower, and sedentary behavior was more prevalent among post-menopausal women. Also, post-menopausal women had a higher prevalence of cardiometabolic disorders, even among those meeting the PAG. Therefore, PA of adequate duration and intensity is recommended even among post-menopausal women.