Obesity and Physical Activity in Ostomized Patients

Abstract

Introduction The relationship between obesity and physical activity is still unknown in specific groups, such as people living with ostomies. Objective To assess the prevalence of obesity and the level of physical activity in ostomized individuals. Methods A cross-sectional study with a population of ostomized patients in two hospitals of a Brazilian city. Obesity was assessed by the Body Mass Index (BMI) and physical activity, by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results The study included 148 patients (55.4% of men [82]), with a mean age of 58.5 (±17.8) years, with 56.1% (83) of the sample aged 60 or older. Colostomies were identified as definitive in 67.6% (100), there were 28 cases (18.9%) of obesity, 67 (45.3%) overweight patients, and 31 (20.9%) subjects were underweight. Sedentary lifestyle was identified in 40.5% (60) of the participants. The mean BMI was significantly higher in men (25.9 ± 5.1), and a higher proportion of men were overweight (28; 34.1%); the underweight group had a greater proportion of women (20; 30.3%). An association between physical inactivity and underweight (p = 0.003) was found. Conclusion Most patients with ostomies, especially colostomies, are men over 60 years of age who are overweight or obese. In general, underweight individuals are more sedentary.