Associations between types of physical activity, physical activity levels, and overactive bladder: a cross-sectional study based on 2007–2020 NHANES

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the types and levels of physical activity and overactive bladder (OAB) in a nationally representative population. Participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2020 were included in this study. Weighted logistic regression analysis was employed to study the correlation between the risk OAB and physical activity types and levels. The reliability of the findings was assessed using subgroup analysis. The relationship between OAB and physical activity levels was investigated using a restricted cubic spline (RCS) model. After adjusting for potential covariates, vigorous recreational activity (OR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.62–0.75, p < 0.001), moderate recreational activity (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.78–0.88, p < 0.001) and physical activity levels (p < 0.001) were protective factors for OAB. The subgroup analysis revealed a consistent and significant correlation between OAB and vigorous and moderate recreational activities. Restricted cubic spline showed a nonlinear relationship between the physical activity levels and OAB (P-non-linear value < 0.001). In all kinds of physical activities, it was determined that vigorous recreational activities and moderate recreational activities possess a protective impact on OAB. Moderate increases in physical activity can be effective in preventing OAB.