Lifestyle Behaviors and Noncommunicable Diseases Among United States Adults: A National Analysis of Physical Activity, Diet, and Health Outcomes.

Summary

This cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative United States survey data (2024 Health Information National Trends Survey) examined associations between lifestyle behaviours and noncommunicable disease prevalence among adults aged ≥18 years. Aerobic physical activity meeting guidelines was associated with lower odds of diabetes (adjusted odds ratio 1.33) and hypertension (1.49), whilst strength training and fruit intake showed protective associations with lung disease. The study found suboptimal adherence to physical activity and dietary recommendations across the population, with younger age, healthy weight, and higher income consistently protective against noncommunicable disease diagnoses.

Regional applicability

Whilst this study is specific to the United States population and healthcare context, the epidemiological associations between physical activity, diet, and noncommunicable diseases are likely broadly applicable to United Kingdom populations. However, UK-specific data and consideration of different healthcare systems, food environments, and cultural factors would be needed to inform UK public health policy and practice.

Key measures

Self-reported diagnoses of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and lung disease; aerobic activity and strength training adherence to guidelines; fruit and vegetable intake; body mass index; adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals

Outcomes reported

The study examined associations between self-reported physical activity (aerobic and strength training), fruit and vegetable intake, and prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and lung disease among United States adults. Survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression models estimated adjusted odds of noncommunicable disease diagnoses in relation to lifestyle behaviours.

Topic tags