Occupational physical activity trends from 1987 to 2017: A nationally representative sample of 160,509 Spanish adults

The aim of the study was to estimate temporal and updated trends of occupational physical activity (OPA) among Spanish adult population during the period between 1987 and 2017. We used all available rounds of the Spanish National Health Survey (160,509 adults, mean age 44.6 years [SD 16.6], 50.3% women) and multivariate regressions to determine temporal trends of high OPA from 1987 to 2017 in the general working population of Spain. The highest OPA prevalence was observed for participants aged 31−49 years in the 2003 survey. The prevalence of high OPA was generally low, but increased slightly over time in the 18-30, 50-64, and 65-75 years old (p < 0.001 for trend). In contrast, a general reduction in OPA was observed in the 16-17 years old (p < 0.001 for trend). Men consistently showed higher OPA prevalence than women. This study reports an increase in OPA prevalence in Spain from 1987 to 2017, which is low and significant in most socio-demographic groups, but small in absolute terms. The youngest group had a marked decreased in OPA prevalence over the course of the study. Men consistently showed higher OPA prevalence than women, but differences have become smaller in recent years. Our results may assist in the establishment of interventional strategies and future policies among specific subgroups. Highlights There is an increase in OPA prevalence in Spain from 1987 to 2017. The youngest group had a marked decreased in OPA prevalence over the course of the study. Men consistently showed higher OPA prevalence than women, but differences have become smaller in recent years. Frequent national surveillance of OPA to monitor long-term development of the working environment should be mandatory.