Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

5-2024

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Department

Epidemiology

First Committee Member

Ariane Rung, PhD

Second Committee Member

Kendra Ratnapradipa, PhD

Third Committee Member

Anthony Blake, MPH

Fourth Committee Member

Ishrat Kamal-Ahmed, PhD

Abstract

Objective: To determine the association between a history of depression and engagement in physical activity among U.S. adults.

Method: Data were from the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey (N=441,348). Univariate and bivariate analyses were performed to determine the distribution of sample characteristics and crude prevalence odds ratios. Weighted multivariate logistic regression stratified by age group assessed the relationship between physical activity engagement and covariates.

Results: In our sample, 20.63% had a history of depression, and 23.89% of adults reported not exercising within the past 30 days. Adults with a history of depression had 1.42 times the odds of being physically inactive compared to those without a history of depression. Individuals within the 55-64 age group had higher odds of being physically inactive (POR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.31, 1.55).

Conclusions: The association between a history of depression and physical inactivity tends to increase with age. This finding highlights the need for public health interventions to improve physical activity among individuals with depressive disorders to promote healthy lifestyles and overall well-being.

Available for download on Thursday, May 01, 2025

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