Comparison of Adherence to Healthy Eating and Physical Activity across Sociodemographic Characteristics among Malaysian Adults

Abstract

Health is a significant social issue impacting individuals, cultures, and nations. The aim of the study was to compare an adherence to healthy eating and physical activity across sociodemographic characteristics among Malaysian adults. A total of 422 healthy male and female adults without dietary and physical activity restrictions participated in this study. They completed the Motiva. diaf questionnaire to acquire the data of level of adherence to healthy eating and physical activity. This study employed Chi-square tests to compare unrelated groups and dependent variables, assessing the differences across sociodemographic factors. Results showed significant differences (P<0.05) in adherence to healthy eating and physical activity among Malaysian adults in terms of ethnicity, marital status, educational level, employment status, average monthly income, and Body Mass Index. On the other hand, the results showed no significant difference (P>0.05) in adherence to healthy eating and physical activity across genders and residential areas. The research reveals disparities in the health habits of Malaysian adults, particularly with regard to healthy eating and physical activity adherence, emphasizing the need for increased public participation in recommended physical activity and healthy eating.