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Pintos-Toledo E, Fernandez-Gimenez S, F Hino AA, Olivares PR, Brazo-Sayavera J. Analysis of the use of public open spaces and physical activity levels in children and adolescents from Rivera (Uruguay). Health Place 2024; 88:103278. [PMID: 38810372 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the use of public open spaces and physical activity levels among children and adolescents in the city of Rivera, Uruguay. A total of 88 target areas located in 29 public open spaces were observed using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Systematic observations were made at different times of the day, covering both weekdays and weekends, for a total of 792 records in each public open spaces. Characteristics of the users were recorded according to gender (male and female), age group (infancy to early childhood 0-5 years, middle childhood 6-12 years, adolescence 13-18 years) and physical activity level (sedentary, moderate, or vigorous activity). Logistic regression was employed, considering variables such as day, period, type, and conditions, to assess factors associated with user presence and activity, with separate analyses by gender. Most of the users were adolescents (59.8%) between 13 and 18 years, 67.2% were male and half of the users were sedentary (50.1%). Furthermore, the majority of participants used the target areas on weekends (96.2%), particularly in the evening (99.2%). Multivariate analyses revealed elevated odds of having active girls and boys in the target area during the afternoon and evening, particularly in organized and equipped areas, compared to the morning. Based on this information, it is worth proposing the need to promote the active use of public open spaces in the city of Rivera (Uruguay).
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Pintos-Toledo
- Instituto Superior de Educación Física, Universidad de La República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; Grupo de Investigación en Análisis del Rendimiento Humano, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; PDU EFISAL, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, Universidad de la República, Rivera, 40000, Uruguay.
| | - Sofia Fernandez-Gimenez
- Instituto Superior de Educación Física, Universidad de La República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; Grupo de Investigación en Análisis del Rendimiento Humano, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; PDU EFISAL, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, Universidad de la República, Rivera, 40000, Uruguay
| | - Adriano Akira F Hino
- Health Science Graduate Program, Medicine and Lifes Science School. Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, 80215-901, Curitba, PR, Brazil
| | - Pedro R Olivares
- Facultad de Educación, Psicología y Ciencias del Deporte, Universidad de Huelva, Avenida de Las Fuerzas Armadas s/n, 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Javier Brazo-Sayavera
- Grupo de Investigación en Análisis del Rendimiento Humano, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; PDU EFISAL, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, Universidad de la República, Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; Departamento de Deporte e Informática, Universidad Pablo de Olavide (UPO), Seville, 41013, Spain
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Meng X, Wang M. Comparative Review of Environmental Audit Tools for Public Open Spaces from the Perspective of Children's Activity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13514. [PMID: 36294093 PMCID: PMC9602785 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Public open spaces are important venues for children's participation in outdoor activities and social life. This study performs a comparative and qualitative review of the tools that can be used to audit the environments of children-focused public open spaces. The analysis reviews 25 studies involving 11 tools for comparison. The results reveal that (1) the tools were developed in different fields; (2) the tools use two data resources, field investigation and geographic databases; (3) the tool dimensions are diverse, as are the number of items covered, and are generally related to four categories: surrounding environment and accessibility, activity and perceived safety, children's sports and play opportunities, and aesthetic and comfort of the environment; (4) the reliability of most tools has been verified, with some validity still to be confirmed; (5) there are differences in tool users, settings, and aims. Among the tools, the CPAT and the EAPRS are the most comprehensive. Comparative analysis of the tools provides a reference for studies on children-focused public open spaces and for the development and improvement of corresponding tools in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Meng
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Region Urban and Rural Human Settlement Environment Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Mohan Wang
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
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Stone GA, Fernandez M, DeSantiago A. Rural Latino health and the built environment: a systematic review. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:1-26. [PMID: 30999761 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2019.1606899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study systematically reviewed literature examining the influence of the rural built environment on Latinos' health outcomes and behaviour in the United States. A secondary aim of the study was to identify strategies developed to address challenges in the rural built environment affecting Latinos' health.Design: This study followed the reporting guidelines set forth by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Articles included in the final analysis clearly linked Latino health outcomes to characteristics of the rural built environment.Results: Of the nearly 2,500 articles identified in the initial search, the final review included approximately 146 full-text sources. The majority of the articles focused on aspects of Latinos' physical (n = 68), behavioural (n = 43), and mental health (n = 23).Conclusions: Rural Latino neighbourhoods in the United States possess limited access to health care, internet, transportation, and recreation infrastructure, which negatively impacts health outcomes and behaviours. Strategies developed to mitigate these issues include but are not limited to: the use of telecommunications to distribute health information; the use of community health workers and mobile clinics to increase awareness and availability of select health services; the use of worksite trainings and adaptations to the workplace; and the promotion of safety net programmes, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Programme for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). This review supports the need for a more robust research agenda documenting the health experiences of rural Latinos of various nationalities, age groups, and genders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrett A Stone
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, USA
| | - Mariela Fernandez
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, USA
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West AB, Bittel KM, Russell MA, Evans MB, Mama SK, Conroy DE. A systematic review of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and substance use in adolescents and emerging adults. Transl Behav Med 2020; 10:1155-1167. [PMID: 33044536 PMCID: PMC7549408 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The transition from adolescence into emerging adulthood is marked by changes in both physical activity and substance use. This systematic review characterized associations between movement behaviors (physical activity, sedentary behavior) and frequently used substances (alcohol, cannabis) among adolescents and emerging adults to inform lifestyle interventions that target multiple behavior change outcomes. This systematic review was guided by PRISMA. Electronic databases of PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched from inception through June 25, 2019. The search was designed to identify empirical studies reporting an association between physical activity or sedentary behavior and alcohol or cannabis, with search criteria determining eligibility based on several sampling characteristics (e.g., participants under 25 years of age). After identifying and screening 5,610 studies, data were extracted from 97 studies. Physical activity was positively associated with alcohol use among emerging adults, but the literature was mixed among adolescents. Sedentary behavior was positively associated with alcohol and cannabis use among adolescents, but evidence was limited among emerging adults. Self-report measures were used in all but one study to assess these behaviors. Physical activity is linked to greater alcohol use among emerging adults. Whereas existing studies demonstrate that sedentary behavior might serve as a risk marker for alcohol and cannabis use among adolescents, additional primary research is needed to explore these associations in emerging adults. Future work should also use device-based measures to account for timing of and contextual features surrounding activity and substance use in these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley B West
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Kelsey M Bittel
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Michael A Russell
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - M Blair Evans
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Scherezade K Mama
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - David E Conroy
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Garcia AS, Takahashi S, Anderson-Knott M, Dev D. Determinants of Physical Activity for Latino and White Middle School-Aged Children. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2019; 89:3-10. [PMID: 30506697 DOI: 10.1111/josh.12706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity (PA) has long been acknowledged to contribute health benefits among children. However, research has consistently shown that PA declines as children grow older. Thus, this study examined the factors which are associated to children's PA in order to identify potential barriers to PA. METHODS Using data from the KidQuest Program, we conducted bivariate and multivariate analyses on survey data collected from fifth to seventh grade students in a small Midwestern city. RESULTS We found that food knowledge, eating breakfast, and talking with family about eating healthy foods, are positively related to PA. On the other hand, screen time is negatively related to PA. In addition, our results evinced differences between ethnicities and found that Latino children's screen time affects their PA levels more than their white counterpart. CONCLUSIONS There are different factors which can be tapped to increase PA among middle school-aged children. Given the differences between the Latino and white samples especially in screen time, schools should consider individualized intervention, rather than a "one size fits all" program, to increase PA participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aileen S Garcia
- Department of Counseling and Human Development, 206 Wenona Hall, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, 57007
| | - Shinya Takahashi
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, 104 E Levinson Hall, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0806
| | - Mindy Anderson-Knott
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Research Consortium, 234 Prem S. Paul Research Center at Whittier, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0866
| | - Dipti Dev
- Department of Child, Youth and Family Studies, 135 Mabel Lee Hall, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0236
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Hillier A, Han B, Eisenman TS, Evenson KR, McKenzie TL, Cohen DA. Using systematic observations to understand conditions that promote inter-racial experiences in neighbourhood parks. URBAN PLANNING 2016; 1:51-64. [PMID: 29085765 PMCID: PMC5659617 DOI: 10.17645/up.v1i4.756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
We analysed observations from 31 neighbourhood parks, with each park mapped into smaller target areas for study, across five US cities generated using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in the Community (SOPARC). In areas where at least two people were observed, less than one-third (31.6%) were populated with at least one white and one non-white person. Park areas that were supervised, had one or more people engaged in vigorous activity, had at least one male and one female present, and had one or more teens present were significantly more likely to involve interracial groups (p<0.01 for each association). Observations in parks located in interracial neighbourhoods were also more likely to involve interracial groups (p<0.05). Neighbourhood poverty rate had a significant and negative relationship with the presence of interracial groups, particularly in neighbourhoods that are predominantly non-white. Additional research is needed to confirm the impact of these interactions. Urban planning and public health practitioners should consider the health benefits of interracial contact in the design and programming of neighbourhood parks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Hillier
- Department of City & Regional Planning, School of Design, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, USA
| | - Theodore S Eisenman
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning, University of Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Thomas L McKenzie
- Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, USA
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Engelberg JK, Conway TL, Geremia C, Cain KL, Saelens BE, Glanz K, Frank LD, Sallis JF. Socioeconomic and race/ethnic disparities in observed park quality. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:395. [PMID: 27176854 PMCID: PMC4866396 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3055-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Though park presence and access disparities are well studied for their associations with physical activity (PA), disparities in the availability and quality of amenities and facilities within parks have been infrequently examined. Methods Five hundred forty-three parks from 472 block groups in the Seattle, WA and Baltimore, MD regions were audited using the Environmental Assessment of Public Recreation Spaces (EAPRS) to assess presence and quality (e.g., condition, cleanliness) of amenities (e.g., restrooms, seating) and facilities (e.g., fields, courts). General linear model regressions investigated Census 2000-derived neighborhood race/ethnicity and income main effect and interactive relationships with 7 park quality summary scores: 1) trails, 2) open space, 3) sports facilities, 4) PA facilities count, 5) PA facilities quality, 6) aesthetics, and 7) overall amenities, controlling for park size. The regions were analyzed separately due to differing race/ethnicity distributions. Results In the Seattle region, neighborhood income was significantly negatively associated with sports quality score (p < .043), PA facilities total count (p < .015) and the overall amenities quality score (p < .004) (unexpected direction). In the Baltimore region, neighborhood race/ethnicity (percent White/non-Hispanic) was significantly positively related to the open spaces quality score (p < .011) (expected direction). A significant income-by-race/ethnicity interaction was found for PA facilities quality (p = .014), with high-percent minority neighborhoods having higher quality parks in high- vs. low-income neighborhoods, yet was opposite in mostly White/non-Hispanic neighborhoods. The other income-by-race/ethnicity interaction was for overall amenities quality score (p = .043), where scores in high-percent minority neighborhoods were best in high- vs. low-income neighborhoods. There was little difference in scores within mostly White or mixed neighborhoods by income. Conclusions Patterns of association of neighborhood race/ethnicity and income with park qualities differed between regions. In the Seattle region, “equitable differences” were found, where lower income neighborhoods had better park quality on average. In the Baltimore region, park quality was more consistently negatively associated with income and race/ethnic diversity, and complex interactions of race/ethnicity by income were detected. These findings emphasize the need to explore other factors that may explain variations in park quality, like local policy, citizen involvement in park decision-making, park funding and allocation, sources of funding and park priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessa K Engelberg
- Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, 3900 5th Ave Suite 310, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA.
| | - Terry L Conway
- Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, 3900 5th Ave Suite 310, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
| | - Carrie Geremia
- Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, 3900 5th Ave Suite 310, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
| | - Kelli L Cain
- Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, 3900 5th Ave Suite 310, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
| | - Brian E Saelens
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, University of Washington, 2001 Eighth Avenue, Suite 400, Seattle, WA, 98121, USA
| | - Karen Glanz
- Perelman School of Medicine and School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 801 Blockley Hall, 423 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lawrence D Frank
- School of Community and Regional Planning, University of British Columbia, #433-6333 Memorial Road, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z2, Canada
| | - James F Sallis
- Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, 3900 5th Ave Suite 310, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
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Evenson KR, Jones SA, Holliday KM, Cohen DA, McKenzie TL. Park characteristics, use, and physical activity: A review of studies using SOPARC (System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities). Prev Med 2016; 86:153-66. [PMID: 26946365 PMCID: PMC4837088 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2016.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) can obtain information on park users and their physical activity using momentary time sampling. We conducted a literature review of studies using the SOPARC tool to describe the observational methods of each study, and to extract public park use overall and by demographics and physical activity levels. We searched PubMed, Embase, and SPORTDiscus for full-length observational studies published in English in peer-reviewed journals through 2014. Twenty-four studies from 34 articles were included. The number of parks observed per study ranged from 3 to 50. Most studies observed parks during one season. The number of days parks were observed ranged from 1 to 16, with 16 studies observing 5 or more days. All studies included at least one weekday and all but two included at least one weekend day. Parks were observed from 1 to 14times/day, with most studies observing at least 4 times/day. All studies included both morning and afternoon observations, with one exception. There was a wide range of park users (mean 1.0 to 152.6 people/park/observation period), with typically more males than females visiting parks and older adults less than other age groups. Park user physical activity levels varied greatly across studies, with youths generally more active than adults and younger children more active than adolescents. SOPARC was adapted to numerous settings and these review results can be used to improve future studies using the tool, demonstrate ways to compare park data, and inform park promotions and programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, 137 East Franklin Street, Suite 306, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States.
| | - Sydney A Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, 137 East Franklin Street, Suite 306, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States.
| | - Katelyn M Holliday
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, 137 East Franklin Street, Suite 306, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States.
| | - Deborah A Cohen
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90407, United States.
| | - Thomas L McKenzie
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, 5127 Walsh Way, San Diego, CA 92115, United States.
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Cohen DA, Han B, Derose KP, Williamson S, Marsh T, Raaen L, McKenzie TL. The Paradox of Parks in Low-Income Areas: Park Use and Perceived Threats. ENVIRONMENT AND BEHAVIOR 2016; 48:230-245. [PMID: 27065480 PMCID: PMC4821183 DOI: 10.1177/0013916515614366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Concerns about safety and perceived threats have been considered responsible for lower use of parks in high poverty neighborhoods. To quantify the role of perceived threats on park use we systematically observed 48 parks and surveyed park users and household residents in low-income neighborhoods in the City of Los Angeles. Across all parks, the majority of both park users and local residents perceive parks as safe or very safe. We noted apparently homeless individuals during nearly half of all observations, but very few instances of fighting, intimidating groups, smoking and intoxication. The presence of homeless individuals was associated with higher numbers of park users, while the presence of intoxicated persons was associated with lower numbers. Overall the strongest predictors of increased park use were the presence of organized and supervised activities. Therefore, to increase park use, focusing resources on programming may be more fruitful than targeting perceived threats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
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Eyre ELJ, Duncan MJ, Birch SL, Cox V. Environmental and school influences on physical activity in South Asian children from low socio-economic backgrounds: A qualitative study. J Child Health Care 2015; 19:345-58. [PMID: 24270992 DOI: 10.1177/1367493513508845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
South Asian (SA) children are less active but have enhanced metabolic risk factors. Physical activity (PA) is a modifiable risk factor for metabolic disease. Evidence suggests that environmental factors and socio-economic status influence PA behaviour. The purpose of this study was to understand PA environments, barriers and facilitators of PA in deprived environments for children from SA backgrounds. Focus groups were conducted with 5 groups of children aged 7-9 years (n = 33; male = 16, female = 17; SA = 17, White = 8 and Black = 8) from two schools in deprived wards of Coventry, England. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and subthemes across all transcripts. From the results, emergent themes included school and home environment, outdoor activity, equipment, weather, parental constraints and safety. Ethnic differences were apparent for sources of beliefs and knowledge and religious practice as constraints for PA. The findings suggest that school provides a good foundation for PA attitude, knowledge and behaviour, especially for SA children. To increase PA, multi-component interventions are needed, which focus on changing the home environment (i.e. junk food and media time), encouraging outdoors activity, changing perceptions of safety and weather conditions, which provide parental constraints for children. Interventions also need to be considerate to religious practices that might constrain time.
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Kaczynski AT, Besenyi GM, Stanis SAW, Koohsari MJ, Oestman KB, Bergstrom R, Potwarka LR, Reis RS. Are park proximity and park features related to park use and park-based physical activity among adults? Variations by multiple socio-demographic characteristics. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2014; 11:146. [PMID: 25480157 PMCID: PMC4310176 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-014-0146-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parks are valuable resources for physical activity (PA) given their widespread availability and low cost to maintain and use. Both proximity to parks and the availability of particular features are important correlates of PA. However, few studies have explored multiple measures of proximity simultaneously or the specific facilities associated with park use and park-based PA among adults, let alone differences across socio-demographic characteristics. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between park proximity and park facilities and adults’ park use and park-based PA, while also exploring differences by gender, age, race, and income. Methods Data on monthly park use and weekly amount of PA undertaken in parks were collected via a mail survey of adults from randomly-selected households (n = 893) in Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO) in 2010–2011. Three measures of park proximity were calculated within 1 mile of participating households: distance to the closest park, number of parks, and total park area. All parks in KCMO were audited using the Community Park Audit Tool to determine the availability of 14 park facilities within 1 mile of each participant (e.g., trail, playground, tennis court). Multilevel logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between each of park use and park-based PA and 1) three measures of park proximity, and 2) the availability of 14 park facilities within 1 mile of participants. Separate analyses were conducted by gender, age, race, and income, while controlling for all socio-demographic characteristics and BMI. Results Across all sub-samples, distance to the closest park was not significantly related to either park use or park-based PA. However, numerous significant associations were found for the relationship of number of parks and amount of park space within 1 mile with both outcomes. As well, diverse facilities were associated with park use and park-based PA. For both park proximity and facilities, the significant relationships varied widely across gender, age, race, and income groups. Conclusions Both park proximity and park facilities are related to park use and park-based PA. Understanding how such associations vary across demographic groups is important in planning for activity-friendly parks that are responsive to the needs of neighborhood residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Room 529, Columbia, SC, 29201, USA. .,Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| | - Gina M Besenyi
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Room 529, Columbia, SC, 29201, USA.
| | - Sonja A Wilhelm Stanis
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, University of Missouri-Columbia, 105 ABNR Building, Columbia, MO, USA.
| | - Mohammad Javad Koohsari
- Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia. .,McCaughey VicHealth Centre for Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | | | - Ryan Bergstrom
- Department of Geography, 800 West College Ave, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, MN, USA.
| | - Luke R Potwarka
- Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Rodrigo S Reis
- School of Health and Biosciences, Pontifica Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil.
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Eyre ELJ, Duncan MJ, Birch SL, Cox V, Blackett M. Physical activity patterns of ethnic children from low socio-economic environments within the UK. J Sports Sci 2014; 33:232-42. [PMID: 24998418 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2014.934706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Many children fail to meet physical activity (PA) guidelines for health benefits. PA behaviours are complex and depend on numerous interrelated factors. The study aims to develop current understanding of how children from low Socio-economic environments within the UK use their surrounding built environments for PA by using advanced technology. The environment was assessed in 96 school children (7-9 years) using global positioning system (GPS) monitoring (Garmin Forerunner, 305). In a subsample of 46 children, the environment and PA were assessed using an integrated GPS and heart rate monitor. The percentage of time spent indoor, outdoor, in green and non-green environments along with time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) in indoor and outdoor environments were assessed. A 2-by-2 repeated measures analysis of covariance, controlling for body mass index, BF%, assessed the environmental differences. The findings show that 42% of children from deprived wards of Coventry fail to meet PA guidelines, of which 43% was accumulated during school. Children engaged in more MVPA outdoor than indoor environments (P < 0.01) and a greater amount of time was spent in non-green environments (P < 0.01). Increased time outdoors was negatively associated with BF%. In conclusion, outdoor environments are important for health-enhancing PA and reducing fatness in deprived and ethnic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Lisa Jane Eyre
- a Biomolecular and Sport Science , Coventry University , Priory Street, Coventry , CV1 5B , UK
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Perceptions of neighborhood park quality: associations with physical activity and body mass index. Ann Behav Med 2014; 45 Suppl 1:S39-48. [PMID: 23334770 DOI: 10.1007/s12160-012-9448-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parks are important resources for physical activity (PA), yet few studies have examined how perceptions of park characteristics relate to PA and health. PURPOSE This study investigated associations between perceptions of neighborhood park quality and overall moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), park-based PA, and body mass index (BMI). METHODS Data were collected via questionnaire from 893 households in Kansas City, Missouri. RESULTS The newly developed neighborhood park quality scale demonstrated good test-retest and internal reliability. Residents' perceptions of neighborhood park quality were related to PA and health outcomes. Perceiving parks as a benefit was positively related to overall MVPA and park-based PA and negatively related to BMI. Perceptions of well-used parks were positively related to BMI, while perceived cleanliness was negatively related to park-based PA. CONCLUSIONS Better measuring and understanding how perceptions of local parks are associated with PA and health can improve appreciation of how parks facilitate active living.
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Van Dyck D, De Meester F, Cardon G, Deforche B, De Bourdeaudhuij I. Physical Environmental Attributes and Active Transportation in Belgium: What about Adults and Adolescents Living in the Same Neighborhoods? Am J Health Promot 2013; 27:330-8. [DOI: 10.4278/ajhp.120316-quan-146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. To examine if adults and adolescents living in the same high- and low-walkable neighborhoods have different environmental perceptions and if this is reflected in distinct associations between environmental perceptions and active transportation. Design. Cross-sectional study with observational design. Setting. In Ghent, 24 neighborhoods were selected, stratified on objectively assessed walkability, and matched on neighborhood income. This resulted in four walkability/income quadrants, each consisting of six neighborhoods. Subjects. Living in the 24 neighborhoods were 1166 adults (20–65 years, 52.1% women) and 477 adolescents (13–15 years, 49.7% girls). Measures. All participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the International (adults) or Flemish (adolescents) Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Neighborhood Environmental Walkability Scale. Analysis. Multilevel (two-level: participant-neighborhood) moderated regression models, using MLwiN 2.23. Results. Both adults and adolescents living in objectively high-walkable neighborhoods perceived their environment as more activity friendly than their low-walkable neighborhoods counterparts (11 out of 13 main effects walkability: p < .05). However, perceived residential density (p < .05), land use mix (p < .01), safety for cycling (p < .05), and perceived walkability (p < .001) were associated with active transportation only in adults. Conclusion. Different environmental intervention strategies are probably needed to increase active transportation in Belgian adults and adolescents living in the same neighborhoods. In adults, changing objective or perceived environmental characteristics might be effective, whereas in adolescents, the current environmental focus should be changed towards multidimensional research.
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Cezar-Vaz MR, Bonow CA, Sant’ Anna CF, Rocha LP, de Almeida MCV, Santos da Silva MR. Environmental health in public health community practice: An integrative review of the literature. Health (London) 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2013.59194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Kaczynski AT, Stanis SAW, Besenyi GM. Development and testing of a community stakeholder park audit tool. Am J Prev Med 2012; 42:242-9. [PMID: 22341161 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2011.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parks are valuable community resources, and auditing park environments is important for understanding their influence on physical activity and health. However, few tools exist that engage citizens in this process. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to develop a user-friendly tool that would enable diverse stakeholders to quickly and reliably audit community parks for their potential to promote physical activity. A secondary aim was to examine community stakeholders' reactions to the process of developing and using the new tool. METHODS The study employed a sequential, multiphase process including three workshops and field testing to ensure the new instrument was the product of input and feedback from a variety of potential stakeholders and was psychometrically sound. All study stages, including data collection and analysis, occurred in 2010. RESULTS Stakeholder recommendations were combined with reviews of existing instruments to create the new Community Park Audit Tool (CPAT). The CPAT contains four sections titled Park Information, Access and Surrounding Neighborhood, Park Activity Areas, and Park Quality and Safety. Inter-rater analyses demonstrated strong reliability for the vast majority of the items in the tool. Further, stakeholders reported a range of positive reactions resulting from their engagement in the project. CONCLUSIONS The CPAT provides a reliable and user-friendly means of auditing parks for their potential to promote physical activity. Future use of the CPAT can facilitate greater engagement of diverse groups in evaluating and advocating for improved parks and overall healthy community design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, USA.
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Perry CK, Saelens BE, Thompson B. Intrapersonal, behavioral, and environmental factors associated with meeting recommended physical activity among rural Latino youth. Pediatr Exerc Sci 2011; 23:521-36. [PMID: 22109778 PMCID: PMC3677811 DOI: 10.1123/pes.23.4.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify intrapersonal, behavioral, and environmental factors associated with engaging in recommended levels of physical activity among rural Latino middle school youth. Data were from an anonymous survey of 773 Latino youth (51% female) about level of and barriers and motivators to physical activity, risk behaviors, and park use. Logistic regression models identified factors correlated with meeting recommended levels of physical activity (5 days or more 3 60 min/day). Thirty-four percent of girls and 41% of boys reported meeting this physical activity recommendation. Participation in an organized after school activity (p < .001) and in physical education (PE) classes 5 days a week (p < .001) were strongly associated with meeting recommended physical activity level. Making PE available 5 days a week and creating opportunities for organized after school physical activity programs may increase the number of rural Latino middle school youth who meet recommended physical activity level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia K Perry
- Dept. of Family and Child Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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