Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to explore the association between physical activity (PA) levels and major health issues (obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus) and mental health factors (depression, stress, suicidal thoughts, and cognitive impairment) among South Korean baby boomers (BBs) to help improve national health policies. Given the global trend of aging populations and the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, understanding the role of PA in promoting healthy aging has become a critical public health issue not only in South Korea but also worldwide. METHODS: Using 2022 Community Health Survey data, we analysed PA levels (low, moderate, and high) and their associations with health outcomes in BBs aged 59-67 years. PA was assessed using the metabolic equivalent of task of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Health outcomes were evaluated based on obesity, hypertension, diabetes, mental health issues, and stress levels. Complex sample logistic regression was used to evaluate the interrelation between PA and health outcomes, adjusting for household income, marital status, and educational level. RESULTS: In men, moderate and high-intensity PA was associated with lower obesity and diabetes rates compared with low-intensity PA, with only moderate PA levels showing consistent links to reduced obesity. In women, both moderate and high PA levels were associated with reduced obesity, hypertension, and diabetes rates. For mental health, PA at both levels was associated with lower odds of all outcomes in both sexes, with moderate PA showing stronger associations than high PA for stress, suicidal thoughts, and cognitive impairment in women. CONCLUSIONS: PA is meaningfully associated with health issues and mental well-being among South Korean BBs. These findings underscore the relevance of tailored PA recommendations and community-based strategies that reflect population characteristics. Further research is warranted to explore the effects of different types of physical activities and their impact on health risk factors.