Comparison of Physical Activity in Obese and Non-Obese Women and Investigation of the Relationship between Physical Activity with ABO Blood Groups and Rh factor

Abstract

Introduction: Decreased physical activity is an important risk factor for obesity. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) has been developed to determine physical activity levels. Previous studies showed that obesity is affected by ABO blood types. Aim of the study was to search whether blood groups are associated with the level of physical activity. If proven, this will indicate that the blood groups may be one of the genetic factors that influence inclination towards obesity. Material and Methods: The study included 306 (n=211 obese, n=95 nonobese) female between the ages of 18 and 65 years. Body weights, BMI (body mass index) fat percentage, fat mass and fat-free mass were determined by using bio-impedance device. The short (IPAQ-S) and long form of (IPAQ-L) questionnaire was implemented through personal interview. ABO and Rh blood groups were determined via Microplack method. Results: No significant difference for IPAQ-S (vigorous, moderate, walking, sitting time, total physical activity) between obese and nonobese groups. However, the activity level of nonobese group was detected higher than obese group. According to IPAQ-L only significant difference in house yard-work detected higher in the obese group. There was no significant result obtained in evaluation of IPAQ-S and IPAQ-L by ABO blood groups in obese and nonobese group. There was no significant outcome detected in Rh factor and IPAQ-S in obese and nonobese group; however, a significant outcome was detected in IPAQ-L. Conclusion: Lack of significant findings in obese and nonobese groups in terms of physical activity levels according to IPAQ-S and IPAQ-L in the study reminds that obesity cannot be explained by physical activity alone. We could not detect a significant association between ABO blood groups and physical activity. Furthermore, the present study indicated that explaining obesity and physical activity in association with a single factor is difficult.

Key Words: Obesity, physical activity, ABO blood groups, Rh factor

Special Issue of Health Sciences

DOI: 10.7176/JSTR/6-03-05