RiteeshGrandhi/sciclaimeval-shared-task huggingface dataset:
Conclusions
This cross-sectional study found that brisk walking is the favored form of physical activity among middle-aged and elderly individuals aged 40 and above. The prevalence of chronic diseases and the geographical location of these age groups were identified as key factors affecting the likelihood of contracting colds. A weekly PA level exceeding 538 MET-min/wk was associated with a significantly lower risk of catching a cold. Therefore, it is advisable for middle-aged and elderly individuals in China to engage in regular fitness activities as a preventive measure against colds and the flu. Such activities should align with the recommended weekly exercise dosage to strengthen the immune system’s primary defense mechanism.
Figure 1: Flowchart of the study.

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DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17459/fig-1
Figure 2: Physical activity in participants with different characteristics: (A) genders (B) age (years) (C) chronic disease (D) regions.
Asterisks (*) indicate comparative significant differences in PA level between groups.

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DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17459/fig-2
Figure 3: Dose–response relationship between PA level and frequency of colds: (A) one time (B) ≥ two times.

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DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17459/fig-3
Information about the participant’s physical activity.
Cold in middle-aged and elderly with different characteristics.
Multiple logistic regression results between different factors and frequency of colds.