PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL OF STUDENTS AT THE BAURU CAMPUS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SÃO PAULO: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE

Abstract

The World Health Organization recommends regular physical activity as it provides health benefits, including reducing mortality from cardiovascular diseases and the incidence of type 2 Diabetes, as well as reducing some types of cancer and improving mental health. , cognitive and sleep. However, part of the adult population does not meet these recommendations, with less activity observed in women than men, in addition to differences between regions and socioeconomic groups. Thus, the objective of the work is to outline the epidemiological profile of the level of physical activity of students enrolled in the three undergraduate courses at the USP Bauru campus, during the academic year, using the validated International Physical Activity Questionnaire - IPAQ and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-Bref). To this end, a prospective observational survey will be carried out. All students from the three undergraduate courses (n=686) will be invited to participate in a weekly analysis, using questionnaires that assess the level of physical activity and quality of life with an emphasis on academic performance. The IPAQ-Reduced consists of 7 questions about the time and frequency of physical activities performed over a typical week and is a widely used tool to measure the level of physical activity in adults. Based on the answers, it is possible to obtain an estimate of the total energy expenditure related to physical activity, classifying individuals into categories of low, moderate and high physical activity. The World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-Bref-Reduced) consists of 11 questions about human quality of life, which the WHO defines as an individual's perception of his/her position in life, in the context of culture and systems of values in which he/she lives and in relation to his/her objectives, expectations, standards and concerns. Based on the answers, it will be possible to draw parallels between physical activity, quality of life and academic performance. It is expected, therefore, to outline the profile of our students, which could provide valuable insights for the implementation of health policies and programs to promote physical activity and quality of life on campus.