Physical Activity Among Medical Students In Casablanca, Morocco

Position of the problem: the physical activity (PA) and sedentary lifestyle are considered among the main factors of health in relation to the lifestyle. Both are associated, independently, with mortality and morbidity. Hence, the aim of this study is to describe physical activity and sedentary lifestyle for medical students in Casablanca. Method: In 2012/2013, we have conducted a cross-sectional study among students of the faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Casablanca using the IPAQ (International Physical Activity Questionnaire). Hence, a stratified cluster sampling on the year of study was realized. The physical activity was described according to three levels, whereas sedentary lifestyle was defined by a lower or nil level than PA. Results: A total of 392 respondents have answered the questionnaire. Their average age was 20.72 year old (Standard deviation (SD) =2.42), 64.0 % were girls, 94.6% were single, and 92.4% were nonsmoking. About 37% of students had a high level of physical activity, 46% had a moderate level, and only 17% had a low level, meaning 83% of students practiced a favorable health activity (corresponding to high or moderate level). The prevalence of sedentary lifestyle was 17%. The students spent an average of 6 hours per day in a seated position, including using computers and talking. The evaluation of potential associations with the physical activity level demonstrated a statistically significant association between this level of activity and sex (p-value=0.0007) on the one hand, and the regular practice of sport by friends (p-value=0.0007) on the other hand. In addition, the time spent in a seated position was significantly associated with sex, smoking status and study level. Conclusion: Whereas the prevalence of sedentary lifestyle was not high, the average number of the time spent in a seated position was so high. Hence, it is necessary to promote the physical and sportive activity with the reinforcement of university sportive infrastructures. Imperial Journal of Interdisciplinary Research (IJIR) Vol-2, Issue-2 , 2016 ISSN : 2454-1362 , http://www.onlinejournal.in Imperial Journal of Interdisciplinary Research (IJIR) Page 567