Promotion of Physical Activity to Prevent Non‑communicable Diseases: An Advocacy Paper

Abstract

Background: Recent studies show that Iranians, especially women, do not have enough physical
activity and if serious measures are not taken to resolve this problem, the consequences will be
harmful to the society. The purpose of this advocacy paper was to determine and explain the
responsibilities of all organizations and institutions responsible for promoting physical activity to root
out the problem.

Methods: After a thorough library search we conducted nine in‑depth interviews
with the relevant policymakers and government officials, managers, and practitioners in promoting
physical activity. All interviews were recorded. To analyze, all of voice files were typed, saved as
Word files, and exported to MAXQDA10 software by the research team. To find the main themes, all
the files were read carefully several times. Then they were coded, categorized, and organized based
on the main objectives of the study. In this way, themes and subthemes were emerged.

Results: According to the participants in the study current state of physical activity in the country, especially
among women, is not promising. The participants explained about the main obstacles for promotion
of physical activity in the country and recommended practical strategies for its promotion. The
strategies were suggested in three areas: Promoting culture, social protection, and adjusting current
policies to overcome the existing barriers.

Conclusion: Regarding the unfavorable state of physical
activity in the country presentation of this advocacy document can be an effective step in promoting
physical activity, thus reducing chronic diseases and improving general health in the country.