Association between sedentary behavior and physical activity with arthritis in the NHANES 2007-2016

Abstract

Abstract Background Arthritis stands as a major, globally rampant, and enduring health condition. Influences such as age, hereditary factors, and excessive body weight have been understood to trigger arthritis, yet the impact of physical activity and a sedentary behavior remains less explored. The objective of this research is to ascertain the linkage between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and arthritis manifestation. Methods We harnessed data from the representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2007 to 2016. A multivariate logistic regression model was adopted to assess the correlation between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and arthritis, and to present the odds ratios (OR). Results Arthritis prevalence was notably higher among females, the elderly, non-Hispanic white demographic, moderate alcohol consumers, smokers, individuals with obesity, and diabetic patients. Total physical activity, heightened transportation and leisure-time physical activity, and diminished sedentary behavior corresponded with a lower arthritis onset. The adjusted multivariate regression analysis unveiled individuals lacking occupational moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) showed decreased odds of arthritis (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.62–0.81, p < 0.01). Furthermore, individuals demonstrating high sedentary behavior during non-screen time had increased odds of arthritis (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.1–1.41, p < 0.01). Conclusion Physical activity is integral to joint health, with active individuals indicating lower arthritis onset, while prolonged stationary behavior was linked to increased arthritis cases. Hence, endorsing moderate physical activity and curtailing sedentary periods emerge as crucial strategies for arthritis prevention and control.