Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Simone Salandy

Abstract

There are few data available regarding the relationship between physical activity and veteran status in those with combined chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obesity. COPD is a common illness and a leading cause of death in the United States. Veterans represent a distinct subpopulation in the United States and are more likely to have COPD, which is a disease with a high rate of comorbidities such as obesity. Physical activity can improve outcomes for those with COPD and obesity. However, recommendations for physical activity for those with COPD and obesity are vague. This study, based on the self-determination theory, sought to explore the relationship between average weekly physical activity and veteran status while controlling for age, sex, race, ethnicity, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), education level, and annual household income in those with comorbid COPD and obesity. Also, the relationship between not meeting, meeting, and exceeding physical activity recommendations and veteran status, while accounting for variation in for age, sex, race, ethnicity, smoking status, BMI, education level, and annual household income, was explored. A case-control study was done to answer the research questions using multiple regression and ordinal regression analyses, respectively, using data from 1,430 participants from the 2015 BRFSS. Veteran status was not significantly associated with physical activity nor was it significantly associated with falling below, at, or above recommended physical activity amounts. However, it was found that increased BMI was associated with decreased physical activity. The results from this study can be used to inform policies, refine recommendations, and guide interventions for those with COPD and obesity.

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