Level of physical activity among users of psychoactive substances

Abstract

Objective: This study checked the level of physical activity among users of psychoactive substances.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Alcohol and Other Drugs Psychoactive Centers of Recife (Brazil). A total of 160 individuals aged 44.09±12.46 years participated. The participants were interviewed through the Global physical active questionnaire. The chi-square test of independence was applied to verify association between level of physical activity and type of psychoactive substance used, level of education, race/colour, sex and type of dwelling being accepted a p<0.05 as significant.

Results: The results showed that 51.9% of psychoactive substance users are physically inactive. There was an association in the domains race/skin colour (p=0.039) and level of instruction (p=0.002) regarding the level of physical activity.

Conclusion: From these data it will be possible to establish the groups that need more support to promote the practice of physical exercise.