Assessment of Level of Physical Activity and Depression in Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Menopause is associated with significant changes in the physical and mental health of women. Physical activity has been proposed as a mitigating factor for mental health issues like depression during this phase. Objectives: To assess the levels of physical activity and depression among postmenopausal women and examine the correlation between these two variables. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 120 postmenopausal women aged 40 years and above from various societies in Surat. Participants completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0, employing descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation. Results: Most participants exhibited moderate physical activity levels (50.83%). Regarding depression, 65% displayed normal mood variations, 25% had mild mood disturbances, 5% had borderline clinical depression, and another 5% had moderate depression. No severe depression was observed. A weak negative correlation was found between physical activity levels and depression scores (r = -0.027, p = 0.768). Conclusion: The majority of postmenopausal women engaged in moderate physical activity and exhibited normal or mildly disturbed moods. Key words: Postmenopausal women, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory.