Physical activity and Cancer. Knowledge and practice among National Cancer Institute employees

Abstract

The epidemic of physical inactivity is an issue of global concern, the inverse dose response relationship of physical inactivity to poor health and mortality is independent of other major risk factors. Physical activity (PA) is hypothesized to reduce the risk of several chronic diseases and enhance longevity. Low levels of activity have been associated with some but not all types of cancers. Lack of PA is rated among the top ten leading causes of death in high income countries, approximately 60- 85% of the world population Ieaa sedentary lifestyles. According to current estimates, physical inactivity causes around 2 million deaths globally every year. Aim: To evaluate physical activity practice among workers (medical & no medical) in National Cancer Institute (NCI), Cairo University and to assess knowledge about different health benefits of physical activity and its role in cancer prevention and treatment. Participants & method: A cross sectional study was conducted on 400 workers (207 medical and 193 non medical). Their level and pattern of physical activity were assessed using modified International Physical Activity Questionnaire version 8 and how did it varies with regard demographic factors, their knowledge about health benefits of PA and its relation to cancer prevention and treatment were studied. The PA level was estimated as metabolic equivalent task (MET minutes/week). Results: The medical group of workers was significantly more knowledgeable about different health benefits of regular physical activity (PA), however there was lack of adequate knowledge about relation between PA and cancer prevention and its role in cancer treatment among the whole group. No significant difference between the medicar and non medical workers as regard the activity level. The most common barrier to participate in regular PA among the whole studied group was no enough time. Significant variables affecting total score MET minute were age groups, work type, job hours per week, education level (years), presence or absence of children, sitting minutes/day. Only 23.5% of the whole studied groups participate in recreation and sport PA. The study .concluded that there was Jack of adequate knowledge about relation between PA and cancer prevention and its role in cancer treatment. The study recommended implementation of a health-related physical education program and lessons about benefit of PA activity. Additionally, suitable place and equipment should be established at the NCI to stimulate workers for PA participation.