A Comparative Study of Quality of Life and Life Expectancy among Physically Active and Inactive Afghan Migrant Men Residing in Mashhad

Abstract

At present, the Human Development Index (HDI) is recognized as the most widely used international criterion for assessing development. This index undoubtedly represents a combination of factors such as health, well-being, quality of life, and life expectancy. According to this standard, a society is considered developed when all individuals, in accordance with the principles of equity and balance, are continuously and comprehensively supported by governmental and non-governmental institutions.

The research method employed in this study is descriptive-analytical and semi-experimental (causal-comparative), as two groups, physically active and inactive individuals, are compared based on their level of physical activity. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire designed to measure quality of life and life expectancy. This study is applied in nature, as it focuses on the Afghan migrant population residing in Mashhad, and aiming to offer strategies for improving quality of life and life expectancy in this group.

The statistical population consisted of physically active and inactive Afghan men aged between 30 and 50 years. From a total of 260 individuals, a sample of 150 was selected. The findings show that the average physical health score in the active group was 84.08 with a standard deviation of 7.84, while in the inactive group it was 78.26 with a standard deviation of 8.36, indicating that physically active men enjoy better physical health. Furthermore, the average mental health score in the active group was 61.39 and in the inactive group 53.37, with a standard deviation of 13.10 in both groups, suggesting that active men also possess higher mental health. The t-statistic value was calculated at 3.10.

In conclusion, the study’s results indicate that regular physical activity plays a significant role in improving various dimensions of quality of life, including physical health, mental health, and life expectancy. Therefore, promoting continuous physical activity, particularly in communities facing social, economic, and health-related challenges, can be an effective step toward enhancing public health and quality of life.