Overview of the Prevalence of Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases in the Brazilian Population Reporting Physical Inactivity

Exposure to physical inactivity (PI) may be a risk factor for the development of one or more noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCDs). The present study examined the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, as well as their various combinations, among the Brazilian population exposed to PI. A total of 323,448 Brazilian men and women aged 18 to 59 years from the 26 state capitals and the Federal District were contacted by telephone and answered questions regarding their physical activity (PA) and health conditions, including medical diagnoses of NCDs. Participants who reported not engaging in any type of PA at home, at work, during commuting, or during leisure time were assigned to the PI group, whereas the remaining participants comprised the control group. Physical inactivity was associated (p < 0.05) with a 16% and 28% higher prevalence of obesity among middle-aged female and male participants, respectively. It was also associated (p < 0.05) with a higher prevalence of combined diabetes and hypertension, diabetes and obesity, and hypertension and obesity, ranging from 49–273%, 60–113%, and 20–71%, respectively. Additionally, physical inactivity was associated (p < 0.05) with a 73–106% higher prevalence of the coexistence of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.