Protocol of a Prospective Cohort Study of Physical Activity in Cardiovascular Outcomes (PACVO) in China: Objective, Design, and Baseline Characteristics

Physical inactivity has been known as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The “Physical Activity in Cardiovascular Outcomes (PACVO)” study is a long-term community-based cohort study, which will prospectively observe the association of physical activity alone or combined with other contributor factors with CVD outcomes. From 2013 to 2014, a total of 8291 participants ≥ 18 years old were enrolled in the PACVO study from Jidong community (Tangshan, China). According to physical activity assessment, participants were divided into inactive, moderately active, and very active groups. The follow-up has been conducted once every year including physical examinations, blood biochemistry, cardiovascular imaging, and life quality questionnaires until 2034 or until the occurrence of cardiovascular events. The PACVO study will provide substantial information about the association of physical activity with CVD outcomes, therefore promote utilizing physical activity in the prevention and prediction of CVDs.