Prevalence and Associated Factors of Physical Inactivity Among Malaysian Adults

Abstract

Background: Regular physical activity benefits people of all ages by enhancing both mental and physical health, whereas inactivity raises the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes, which can result in premature death. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of physical inactivity among adults in Malaysia. Methods: Data on physical inactivity were extracted from the 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), conducted from July to September 2023 among adults aged 18 and above across all states of Malaysia. Physical activity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, with individuals classified as inactive if they did not achieve at least 600 metabolic equivalents of task (MET) minutes per week. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with physical inactivity. Results: A total of 10,858 out of 13,616 respondents participated in the study, resulting in a response rate of 79.7%. The overall rate of physical inactivity was 29.9%. The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that physical inactivity was significantly higher among urban residents (aOR 1.42; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.75), individuals who were single/divorced/widowed (aOR 1.16; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.33), those not working (aOR 1.61; 95% CI: 1.24, 2.09), and those with sedentary time exceeding four hours per day (aOR 1.46; 95% CI: 1.20, 1.76). Inactivity was also more likely among individuals with diabetes (aOR 1.17; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.37) or disabilities (aOR 1.67; 95% CI: 1.39, 2.02). Conclusions: About one-third of Malaysian adults are physically inactive, with higher rates among urban residents, single/divorced/widowed, those not working, those with extended sedentary time, diabetes, or disabilities. Targeted interventions are needed to encourage behaviour change, foster active urban design, and strengthen policies that support active lifestyles.