Abstract
Background : Physical inactivity regarded as one of the leading risk factors for global mortality through its effect on multiple chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD), which in turn responsible for disability adjusted life years lost DALY and premature death in addition to mental disorder and a substantial economic burden worldwide.
Aim of study : To estimate the prevalence of physical activity/ inactivity among teenagers in Mosul city/ Iraq in post conflict period (2017-2019).
Patients & Methods : Cross sectional study was conducted upon 600 teenagers aged (12-17) years of both sexes attending secondary schools of Mosul city. Data collected between October and December 2019, using special form of questionnaire (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescent PAQ-A), the data was obtained directly by interview with the students themselves to confirm a detailed questionnaire form. Using (SPSS 25) statistical package for social science program to calculate the prevalence of physical inactivity among teenagers [The student was physically inactive when he spends less than 60 minute daily of moderate to vigorous physical activity and physically active when he spends 6o minute or more daily of moderate to vigorous physical activity]. The data was presented as frequencies and percentages. A statistical test; chi-square test was used to test for the presence or absence of significant association between dependent and independent variables. A p-value less than 0.05 were considered significant.
Results : A total of 600 teenagers had been included in the study, 472 (78%) were physically inactive. Conclusion : The current study showed the prevalence of physical inactivity is high among teenagers, especially females.
Recommendations : the study recommends the following to minimize the spread of physical inactivity among teenagers in the city:
1. Creation of active environment as provide safe places, public green spaces and ensure time for students to be active at school.
2. Encouraging teenagers, especially females to adopt physical activity routine as a part of their healthy life style.
3. Enhance regular population surveillance system of physical activity across all ages.
