Physical activity level and perceived stress among refugee school students : A descriptive and correlational study

Abstract: Background: Stress and low physical activity (PA) levels are linked to illness. No studies have been found examining them among refugee school students. Aim: Investigate level of PA and perceived stress and the correlation between them among refugee school students. Method: Cross-sectional study with a descriptive, correlative design. Refugee school students completed one questionnaire on perceived stress: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS); and two questionnaires on PA level: Saltin-Grimby Physical Activity Level Scale (SGPALS) and indicator questions for physical activity (SIFA) from the Swedish National board of health and welfare. Results: Altogether 59 students were included. The adult WHO/ FYSS recommended PA levels was met by 55.9%. Median SGPALS was 2 (some light physical activity for at least 4hours/week) out of 4 with 35.6% reported being sedentary during leisure time. Median PSS is 22 out of 40. No significant correlation between SIFA, SGPALS and PSS was found in the population. Conclusion: Over half of the refugee students met the adult WHO/FYSS recommended PA levels and over a third report being sedentary in their leisure time. Initiatives to promote PA among refugee students should be implemented to reduce illness and inactivity.