Relatively lower-intensity physical activity during leisure time and presenteeism among Japanese workers

Abstract

Objectives This study examines the cross-sectional association between relatively lower-intensity physical activity (LIPA) during leisure time and presenteeism, accounting for relatively higher-intensity physical activity (HIPA) during leisure time. Methods Data were derived from 11 438 workers from 6 worksites of large companies in Japan, which participated in a questionnaire survey conducted between fiscal years 2018 and 2020. Frequency and duration per occasion were assessed for leisure-time physical activities at 3 intensities as determined by shortness of breath. LIPA was defined as activity not causing shortness of breath. The participants were divided into 3 groups according to LIPA volume (none, <60 min/wk, or ≥60 min/wk) and into 2 groups according to HIPA volume (none or engaged). A single question assessed the participants' presenteeism through self-ratings of their work performance. A multivariable Poisson regression model with a robust variance estimator estimated prevalence ratios (PRs) of presenteeism and their 95% CIs across the categories for both LIPA and HIPA. Results The prevalence of presenteeism tended to decrease with increasing amounts of LIPA and HIPA (P for trend