The Impact of Conflict on Physical Activity Among Teenagers in Mosul City

In the wake of conflict, whether due to war, terrorism, or displacement, communities often face numerous challenges—mental, social, and physical. A key yet often overlooked consequence of such turmoil is the impact on the physical well-being of teenagers, particularly in terms of physical activity. This post examines the findings of a study conducted in Mosul city, Iraq, exploring how post-conflict environments can influence the physical activity levels of young people.

The Context of Post-Conflict Life

After a conflict, individuals, especially teenagers, are likely to face a series of challenges that affect their daily lives and well-being. These challenges range from emotional and psychological distress, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to environmental factors like insecurity and limited access to facilities. Mosul, once ravaged by conflict, is still recovering from the aftereffects of the war, and its young population continues to face obstacles in their transition to normalcy.

Physical activity is a crucial factor in maintaining overall health. It not only helps prevent chronic non-communicable diseases but also plays a significant role in improving mental health and social well-being. Unfortunately, the study revealed that a large number of teenagers in Mosul city are not meeting the recommended levels of physical activity.

The Study: Prevalence of Physical Inactivity

The study, conducted between 2017 and 2019, surveyed 600 teenagers aged 12-17 from Mosul’s secondary schools. The research used the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A) to assess physical activity levels. According to the findings, a staggering 78.7% of teenagers were physically inactive. This inactivity is defined as spending less than 60 minutes daily engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity—a guideline set by the World Health Organization.

Interestingly, the study revealed a higher rate of inactivity among female teenagers, with 92.3% of females being physically inactive, compared to 65% of males. This disparity highlights how gender-based social factors, such as cultural expectations and safety concerns, can further limit opportunities for physical activity, especially for girls.

Factors Contributing to Physical Inactivity

Several factors contribute to this high rate of physical inactivity among teenagers in post-conflict Mosul:

• Fear of Violence: In the aftermath of conflict, many outdoor areas are perceived as unsafe due to the threat of violence, terrorism, and crime. This fear discourages teenagers from engaging in physical activity outside their homes.
• Lack of Infrastructure: The destruction of public spaces, including parks, sidewalks, and recreational facilities, limits the ability for teenagers to engage in physical activity. The scarcity of these resources, combined with poor urban planning in post-conflict areas, leaves many with few options for safe outdoor play.
• Environmental Concerns: Issues like poor air quality, pollution, and heavy traffic can make outdoor activities less appealing and even hazardous. These environmental stressors further deter teenagers from participating in physical activities.
• The Rise of Technology and Sedentary Habits: With the rise of smartphones, gaming, and other digital devices, many teenagers are spending more time indoors. The appeal of technology often outweighs the motivation to engage in physical exercise, leading to a sedentary lifestyle.
• Lack of Health Education: Many teenagers are unaware of the importance of physical activity for their overall health. In many post-conflict areas, including Mosul, there is insufficient emphasis on health education, especially in schools, to motivate teenagers to adopt a more active lifestyle.

Addressing the Issue: Recommendations for Improvement

The study offers several recommendations to address the high levels of physical inactivity among teenagers in Mosul:

1. Create Safe and Accessible Spaces: It is crucial to invest in public infrastructure that provides safe spaces for physical activity. This includes parks, sidewalks, and sports facilities. Ensuring that teenagers have access to these spaces will encourage them to be more active.
2. Promote Physical Activity for Females: Special attention should be given to encouraging female teenagers to engage in physical activities. This could involve creating gender-sensitive programs that provide a safe and supportive environment for girls to be active.
3. Health Education Programs: Schools and community centers should integrate physical health education into their curricula. This will raise awareness about the benefits of physical activity and motivate teenagers to adopt healthier lifestyles.
4. Strengthen Mental Health Support: Given the high rates of mental health issues in post-conflict areas, it is important to incorporate mental health support alongside physical activity programs. Addressing both aspects can help teenagers cope better with the psychological effects of conflict.
5. Foster Community Engagement: Building community support systems where teenagers can be encouraged to engage in group physical activities, such as sports clubs or fitness challenges, will help reduce isolation and promote socialization through physical activity.

Conclusion

The impact of conflict on physical activity is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The study conducted in Mosul city sheds light on the high rates of physical inactivity among teenagers, particularly in the post-conflict period. To ensure that the next generation grows up healthier and more resilient, it is essential to create an environment that encourages physical activity, provides safe spaces, and offers the support necessary to overcome the barriers posed by a post-conflict society.

By focusing on these solutions, communities like Mosul can foster a generation of teenagers who are not only physically healthy but also mentally and socially empowered, ready to contribute positively to their society's recovery and growth.