Association of movement behaviors with sociodemographic characteristics and health indicators in Mexican adults: ENSANUT 2022

Background. In recent years, epidemiological studies have focused on identifying the association between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep individually, and sociodemographic characteristics and health outcomes in the entire population. However, recently, there has been a paradigm shift in the study of these behaviors, recognizing their combined effect on healthy lifestyles.
Purpose. To examine the association between movement behaviors (MB), individually and as a group, and sociodemographic characteristics and health indicators in Mexican adults.
Methods. Cross-sectional study that used data from the ENSANUT 2022. Information was obtained on physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior and sleep, sociodemographic characteristics, and health indicators in adults aged 20-78 years. Logistic and linear regressions adjusted and not by covariates were used for the analysis.
Results. Those who live in urban areas, with a high level of well-being and schooling, were more likely to not comply with the recommendations for physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, and sleep. Not complying with the recommendations of any of the MBs was associated with higher levels of glucose, cholesterol, insulin, and elevated blood pressure.
Conclusion. Individual and group MBs are associated with sociodemographic characteristics and health outcomes.
Practical implications. The results of this study should alert health professionals, researchers, decision-makers, and civil society organizations about the importance of promoting MBs. However, it will not be enough to alert the population, but rather policies and environments that favor forms of active and safe recreation are required, in addition to appropriate places where these behaviors take place.
Funding. This study was funded by the ministry of health Mexico.