Physical activity level of post-stroke individuals that use the Brazilian public health system

Abstract Introduction: According to studies from developed countries, post-stroke individuals commonly have a low level of physical activity. Considering the benefits of maintaining a good level of physical activity in these subjects, it is important to provide specific and complete information, based on the assessment of all dimensions of physical activity, which supports interventions. Objective: To compare the physical activity levels between individuals with stroke and matched healthy individuals that use the public health system in Brazil considering the different dimensions of physical activity. Methods: Individuals with stroke (n = 11) and matched healthy individuals (n = 11) were assessed. Physical activity levels, considering all dimensions -duration (> 3 MET), frequency (number of steps) and intensity (mean total energy expenditure per day) - were assessed using SenseWear® monitor for seven days. Descriptive statistics and between-groups comparisons were performed (α = 0.05). Results: The physical activity levels were significantly lower in individuals with stroke when compared to matched healthy individuals, considering all dimensions. The between-group differences in activity duration, frequency, and intensity were 74 minutes/day, 5,274 steps/day, and 2,134kJ/day, respectively. Conclusion: Individuals with stroke users of the Brazilian public health system have lower physical activity levels in different dimensions of physical activity than matched healthy individuals. The assessment of the physical activity level of post-stroke individuals is important for decision making in public health programs. Resumo Introdução: De acordo com os estudos realizados em países desenvolvidos, indivíduos pós-acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) comumente apresentam baixo nível de atividade física. Considerando os benefícios desses indivíduos manterem um bom nível de atividade física, é importante fornecer informações específicas e completas a partir da avaliação de todas as dimensões da atividade física que guiem as intervenções. Objetivo: Comparar o nível de atividade física de indivíduos pós-AVC e saudáveis pareados, usuários do sistema público de saúde brasileiro, considerando as diferentes dimensões da atividade física. Métodos: Foram avaliados indivíduos pós-AVC (n = 11) e seus pares saudáveis (n = 11). O nível de atividade física, considerando as diferentes dimensões - duração (> 3 equivalentes metabólicos), frequência (número de passos) e intensidade (média