Prevalence of physical activity and its association with atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk factors in young women in the middle east: a sub-analysis of the ANCHORS study

Abstract

Background: Physical inactivity is a major driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) globally, with women in transitional regions like the Middle East facing unique challenges. This is the first study in the Middle East to explore the prevalence of physical activity and its association with ASCVD risk factors in young women, as part of a sub-analysis of the ANCHORS study. Methods: In this cross-sectional Analysis of 626 women aged 18–50 from the ANCHORS study (2021–2023), participants were categorized as physically active (≥ 150 min/week) or inactive based on self-reported exercise. Data on traditional and emerging ASCVD risk factors were collected through questionnaires and physical assessments. Statistical analyses included chi-square, t-tests, and logistic regression, adjusting for age, residence, education, and BMI. Results: Only 25.1% of participants met recommended physical activity levels. Inactivity was significantly associated with higher BMI (p < 0.001), postpartum weight retention (p = 0.010), and a history of gestational hypertension (p = 0.001) and diabetes (p = 0.015). No link was found with dyslipidemia or family history of CVD. Surprisingly, active women reported more depressive symptoms (p = 0.042), possibly indicating greater mental health awareness. Conclusions: Physical inactivity is widespread among young Middle Eastern women and closely linked to key ASCVD risk factors. These findings highlight an urgent need for culturally tailored physical activity strategies that also consider mental and social health influences. Clinical trials: The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, unique identifier number NCT06199869. The study was registered on 09/01/2024.