Journal Article: “Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Physical Activity Among Adults in the United States”

Published: August 2022 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (peer-reviewed)

Authors: Li, J., Wang, R., Chen, Z., & Zhang, S.

Abstract:

Physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. However, social determinants of health (SDoH) significantly impact engagement in physical activity, leading to disparities across various populations. This study examined the association between SDoH and physical activity levels among adults in the United States using data from the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Key Findings:

• Age: Physical activity levels decreased with increasing age, with older adults significantly less likely to meet the recommended physical activity guidelines.
• Gender: Women were less likely than men to meet the physical activity guidelines.
• Race/Ethnicity: Black and Hispanic adults reported lower levels of physical activity compared to White adults.
• Socioeconomic Status: Individuals with lower income and education levels were less likely to engage in regular physical activity.
• Disability: Adults with disabilities reported lower levels of physical activity, highlighting the need for accessible and inclusive physical activity opportunities.
• Geographic Location: Physical activity levels varied by geographic location, with residents of rural areas less likely to engage in regular physical activity than their urban counterparts.

Implications:

• The study’s findings underscore the substantial role that SDoH play in shaping physical activity behaviors.
• Addressing health disparities requires implementing targeted interventions that address the specific needs and challenges faced by different population groups.
• Policy initiatives promoting access to safe and affordable physical activity facilities, programs, and transportation can help reduce disparities and encourage regular physical activity across all segments of society.
• Healthcare providers should consider SDoH when counseling patients about physical activity and recommend interventions tailored to individual circumstances.

Relevance to Healthy People 2020:

This study directly addresses Healthy People 2020 objectives related to increasing physical activity levels and reducing health disparities. By highlighting the impact of SDoH on physical activity, the study provides valuable insights for developing and implementing effective interventions to achieve these objectives.

Strengths of the Study:

• The study utilized a large, nationally representative sample, providing robust data for analysis.
• The study examined a wide range of SDoH, offering a comprehensive understanding of their influence on physical activity.
• The findings are timely and relevant to current public health priorities.

Limitations of the Study:

• The study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to recall bias.
• The cross-sectional design does not allow for causal inferences about the relationship between SDoH and physical activity.
• The study did not account for all potential SDoH that may influence physical activity.

Overall, this study provides valuable information regarding the impact of SDoH on physical activity among adults in the United States. By understanding these disparities, researchers, policymakers, and healthcare providers can develop effective strategies to promote physical activity for all individuals, regardless of their social background.