Dose-response relationship between weekly physical activity level and the frequency of colds in Chinese middle-aged and elderly individuals

Engaging in appropriate physical activity can significantly lower the risk of various diseases among middle-aged and older adults. Investigating optimal levels of physical activity (PA) is crucial for enhancing the health of this demographic. This study aims to explore the dose-response relationship between weekly PA levels and the frequency of colds among Chinese middle-aged and elderly individuals, identifying the necessary PA level to effectively diminish the risk of colds. We conducted a cross-sectional study using a web-based survey targeting individuals aged 40 and older ( = 1, 683) in China. The survey collected information on PA and the frequency of colds. Data was analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test and the test. We explored the dose-response relationship between weekly PA and cold frequency over the past year through an ordered multivariate logistic regression model and a restricted cubic spline model. (1) Brisk walking emerged as the preferred physical exercise for those over 40. The findings suggest that engaging in moderate (odds ratio (OR) = 0.64,