Abstract

Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality, and has been shown to be related to the built environment. To fill the literature gap from a non-Western setting, we examined: (1) the associations between the built environment and physical activity (PA) behaviors, (2) how the association of street centrality with PA is mediated by public leisure facilities, and (3) whether the association of the built environment with PA differs among people with different perceived PA barriers in Hong Kong. Cross-sectional survey data on 1977 adults were used. Exposure to the built environment was assessed in terms of the density of four types of public leisure facilities (gyms, parks, recreational facilities, and sports facilities) and street centrality. Street centrality was a composite index calculated by gathering four related indicators (reach, betweenness, straightness, and intersection density). Covariates, including socio-demographic variables, perceived neighborhood environment, and perceived PA barriers, were considered. Gym density was significantly associated with vigorous physical activity, but the association became non-significant after controlling for covariates. Sports facility density was associated with a greater probability of moderate physical activity (MPA) and was greater in those who had perceived PA barriers. Additionally, sports facilities partially mediated the association of street centrality with MPA, and fully mediated the association of street centrality with prolonged sitting. Higher park density was associated with lower odds of prolonged sitting. It is important for governments to provide more sports facilities and parks to promote active PA, and to reduce sitting time in adults by creating an active built environment.

Highlights

  • Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality by the World Health Organization (WHO), and is one of the major risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) [1]

  • 58.9% were female, 57.1% lived in public rental housing, 26.7% were low income (

  • Using cross-sectional survey data and objective geographic information system (GIS)-based built environment data, we found that gym density was significantly associated with vigorous physical activity (VPA), but the association disappeared after controlling for covariates

Read more

Summary

Introduction

Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality by the World Health Organization (WHO), and is one of the major risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) [1]. In a systematic review of the associations of built environment infrastructural changes (BEICs) with PA, active transportation, and sedentary behavior, it was found that the effectiveness of BEICs varies greatly with the types of outcome measured [3]. In another comprehensive review, it was determined that greenery, public leisure space (e.g., roof gardens, fitness clubs, public spaces), the specific designs of roads, trails and paths, safety and security provisions, and a wider choice of facilities (e.g., sidewalks, cycling paths, treadmills, stairs) can encourage walking and cycling activities [4]. Safe, walkable, and aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods, with access to overall and specific destinations and services, positively influenced older adults’ PA participation [6]

Methods
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call