Associação entre percepção de barreiras, autoeficácia e atividade física em estudantes universitários

Abstract

Context: Physical activity (PA) is a complex behavior influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Reduced levels of PA and high sedentary behavior (SB) are associated with the onset of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). College students face considerable exposures to NCD risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Additionally, intense academic demands may promote high levels of SB and sleep deprivation. Understanding the factors hindering university students from engaging in PA is crucial, and in this context, perceived barriers and self-efficacy are essential correlates to comprehend individuals' behavior. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the main perceived barriers to PA, self-efficacy, and the level of PA in the university population at the Universidade Federal de Alagoas (UFAL). Methods: This cross-sectional observational analytical study was conducted at the A.C. Simdes campus of UFAL. The sample included university students over 18 years of age of both genders duly enrolled at the A.C. Simdes campus, excluding those with incomplete data and pregnant women. Collected variables encompassed sociodemographic aspects, barriers to PA, self-efficacy for PA, IPAQ-SF questionnaire, body mass, and height. In statistical analysis, tests were stratified by gender, utilizing the following tests: independent samples t-test and Mann-Whitney, Pearson and Spearman correlation, simple and multiple linear regression (adjusted for confounding variables), using STATA® statistical software version 15.0, setting a 5% error and 95% confidence. Results: The results showed a sample composed of young adults (55% ), predominantly female (52,38% ), with low income (63,83%), and mostly active (78,10%). The most prevalent barriers were extensive study hours (48,64% in females and 35,50% in males) and long working hours (35,91% in females and 25,50% in males). Mean comparison tests revealed significant differences, especially for the total barriers score (t = 5.05, p = 0,001) and total self-efficacy score (t = -3,28, p = 0,001). Correlation tests indicated weak associations, with self-efficacy being prominent in females (p = 0,272, p = 0,001). Simple regressions showed relatively low explanatory values, with self-efficacy being the variable with the greatest impact (R2%adj = 0.045, p-value = 0,001). Multiple regression did not show significance for self-efficacy mediating barriers to PA, but the B coefficients were relevant (respectively, B = 35,941 [SE = 8,750] and B = -2,003 [SE = 1,854]), with model adjustment of R2adj = 0,070. Conclusion: In this sample, self-efficacy did not demonstrate mediating barriers to PA. However, association values and isolated percentages of barriers and self-efficacy were significant. Understanding these factors can inform effective strategies to promote PA among university students.