ArticlePloS one2025
Pre-exercise health screening in the UAE: A necessity or barrier to engage in physical activity?
Article in PloS one, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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13 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundSedentary lifestyles contribute to the rise of non-communicable diseases, making physical activity (PA) crucial for public health. Pre-exercise screening is an important tool for ensuring safety, but its utilization and the factors influencing its adoption need further exploration.
objectiveThis study assesses the utilization of pre-exercise screening among physical activity facility users in the UAE, identifying sociodemographic and health-related factors associated with screening practices.
methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 18 and above in the UAE. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire from 630 adults using PA facilities, covering socio-demographic characteristics, PA engagement, knowledge of PA benefits, and pre-exercise screening practices. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 28 for descriptive and inferential statistics.
resultsOf the participants, 496 (78.7%) were unemployed, 554 (87.6%) were aged 18-34, 294 (46.7%) had bachelor's degrees, and 522 (82.9%) were single. Females made up 52% of the respondents. Only 186 (29.5%) underwent pre-exercise screening, with 377 (59.8%) not screened and 67 (10.6%) uncertain. Associations were found between higher screening utilization and factors such as being over 30 years old (44.9%), male (33.9%), having higher education (33.5%), and being employed (40.3%). Participants with chronic health conditions, including heart disease (52.4%), chest pain (48%), and mental health problems (50%), were significantly more likely to utilize pre-exercise screening (P < 0.001). The purpose of pre-exercise screening as risk stratification was recognized by 214 (34.1%), while 257 (40.7%) understood its preventive role. Using the 2023 PARQ + , 401 (63.7%) were cleared for PA, and 229 (36.3%) required further evaluation due to medical or mental health issues. Most participants (83.4%) did not receive guidance from exercise professionals, but 74.3% favoured mandatory pre-exercise screening.
conclusionsThe study highlights a gap in pre-exercise screening utilization in the UAE, with significant associations to sociodemographic factors and health conditions. The findings highlight the need for increased awareness and adoption of pre-exercise screening in the UAE. Addressing knowledge gaps and implementing mandatory screening protocols could improve health literacy and safety in PA facilities.
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